Cheap train tickets from Chicago to La Plata

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Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to La Plata. Traveling by train from Chicago to La Plata usually takes 7 hours and 47 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 4 hours and 52 minutes.

Distance: 284 mi (457 km)
Fastest train: 4h 52m
Lowest price: CZK 1,342.01
Trains per day: 1
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 2

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4.8 Rating

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Chicago to La Plata Train Schedule

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to La Plata (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)

4.5

5.0

joann

November 25, 2024 - Visiting family

Amtrak Southwest Chief

Pros: Good space, on time, helpful staff, good red cap help Cons: I had difficulty purchasing my ticket. Nowhere to designate request for first level. Red cap and conductor arranged it.

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to La Plata:

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to La Plata?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to La Plata was CZK 1,602. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 27 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CZK 3,079.04 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to La Plata by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to La Plata will cost between CZK 1,255 and CZK 2,403. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to La Plata by month

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to La Plata often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in August when the average ticket price is only CZK 1,970. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to La Plata during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CZK 3,139 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Chicago to La Plata on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time, you can save about CZK 3,079.04 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to La Plata?

2 train services operate from Chicago to La Plata. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	1	10h 42m	CZK 1,850.67
Amtrak Southwest Chief	1	4h 52m	CZK 3,125.04

Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Chicago to La Plata every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from CZK 1,255.43.
The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Chicago to La Plata in about 4 hours and 52 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to La Plata

Trains leave the station in Chicago twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to La Plata faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from La Plata to Chicago.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Chicago and La Plata is approximately 284 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 47 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 52 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

284

Distance (km)

457

The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:40 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 1:30 PM. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

7:40am

Last train

1:30pm

Trains from Chicago to La Plata are the most crowded on Monday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Monday

Least crowded

Tuesday

City Information

Chicago

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main departure station: Union Station

The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.

All train stations in Chicago:

Union Station

Where is the train station in La Plata?

Main arrival station: 535 N Owensby St

La Plata has one train station.

All train stations in La Plata:

535 N Owensby St

Need a return trip from La Plata to Chicago?

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