Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Reno

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Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Reno. Traveling by train from Chicago to Reno usually takes 2 days and 21 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can make the trip in 1 day, 21 hours, and 13 minutes.

Distance: 1684 mi (2710 km)
Fastest train: 45h 13m
Lowest price: CHF 162.02
Trains per day: 2
Most frequent service: Amtrak California Zephyr
Train lines: 2

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Chicago to Reno Train Schedule

No preview is currently available. Please try another date or search the full schedule.

Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Reno?

There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Reno.

	Train	Bus
Avg. Price	Avg. PriceCHF 271.58	Avg. PriceCHF 209.63Cheaper
Daily Trips	Daily Trips2	Daily Trips2
Duration	Duration48h 21mFaster	Duration63h 11m

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

See more details

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

In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Reno cost about CHF 172 when booked at the cheapest time. Considering the distance between Chicago and Reno, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 15 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 813.02 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Reno by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Reno will cost between CHF 97 and CHF 985. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Reno by month

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Reno often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only CHF 177. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Reno during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 585 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 Reno on Wanderu at least 15 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 813.02 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Reno?

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

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	1	51h 37m	CHF 261.09
Amtrak California Zephyr	1	45h 17m	CHF 281.33

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 is 1 Amtrak train from Chicago to Reno every day, as well as 1 trip on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 162.02.
Amtrak California Zephyr is one of the longest train routes in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Emeryville. With views of the Colorado and Mississippi rivers, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rockies, it highlights some of the most stunning views the US has.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Reno

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 Reno 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 Reno to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Reno for CHF 141.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Chicago and Reno is approximately 1,684 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 days and 21 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 day, 21 hours, and 13 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)

1684

Distance (km)

2710

The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:40 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 2:00 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

2:00pm

Trains from Chicago to Reno are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Sunday

Least crowded

Thursday

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.

Reno

Dazzling with neon lights and bustling through the night, Reno is a great destination for those seeking top-class entertainment. Though considerably outshined by Las Vegas, Reno still brings unique attractions to the table. Among the most notable destinations for non-gamblers is an independent art scene down at Riverwalk, where indie galleries as well as restaurants abound. Fans of the great outdoors should not miss out on nearby Lake Tahoe, which stands among the most beautiful vacation destinations in the country.

At its core, Reno is still a city for gamblers, and it certainly does not disappoint. Slot machines, table games and cabaret shows are available at the local casinos, ready to tempt risk-takers who wish to court Lady Luck.

Right in the heart of downtown Reno, you will find the Reno Amtrak station from where you can take a train to Northern California and beyond. The local Reno-Tahoe International Airport is located outside of the city and it provides quick access to international flight routes. The main bus stop that serves Reno is also located at the airport.

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 Reno?

Main arrival station: Reno Amtrak Train Station

The Amtrak Station in Reno is one of the main travel hubs in the city and opened in 1868. Located on North Center St, the station is surrounded by the casinos, restaurants, and hotels which put Reno on the map. Due to its downtown location, the station waiting area and the train tracks are actually placed below ground level. The California Zephyr train line passes through this station on its route from Chicago to Emeryville as well as Amtrak Thruway buses which connect to Sacramento.

All train stations in Reno:

Reno Amtrak Train Station

Need a return trip from Reno to Chicago?

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