Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Austin
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Trip Summary
There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Chicago to Austin. Traveling by train from Chicago to Austin usually takes 32 hours and 37 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Texas Eagle train can make the trip in 28 hours and 57 minutes.
| Distance | 980 mi (1576 km) |
| Fastest train | 28h 57m |
| Lowest price | $143.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Austin Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Austin?
There are usually 24 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Austin.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$256.77 | Avg. Price$227.84Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips4 | Daily Trips24 |
Duration | Duration32h 37m | Duration30h 21mFaster |
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Austin:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Austin?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Austin was $208.30. Considering the distance between Chicago and Austin, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 14 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $221.65 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Austin by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Austin will cost between $143 and $506. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Austin by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Austin often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $188. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Austin during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $275 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Austin on Wanderu at least 14 days ahead of time, you can save about $221.65 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Austin?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Austin, including Amtrak, Amtrak Texas Eagle. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 34h 38m | $222.47 |
| Amtrak Texas Eagle | 1 | 28h 57m | $318.79 |
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 3 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Austin every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $159.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Austin
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Austin. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from Austin to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Austin for $106.
TRIPS PER DAY
4
DIRECT TRIPS
1
The distance between Chicago and Austin is approximately 980 miles, or 1576 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 32 hours and 37 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 28 hours and 57 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)
980
DISTANCE (KM)
1576
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:15am while the last train of the day leaves at 2:10pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
7:15am
LATEST TRAIN
2:10pm
Trains from Chicago to Austin are the most crowded on Friday. 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Friday
LEAST CROWDED
Wednesday
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.
Austin
Austin is the capital of the Lone Star State and one of the best vacation destinations in Texas. Known as Texas’s “weird” city, Austin is famous for being the southern mecca for the arts. In addition to being a hot spot for both emerging and established artists from Texas and the surrounding states, Austin is well known for its eclectic live music scene. In addition, the University of Texas’ main campus is located in Austin, which makes the city a popular destination for young people from all over the world, keeping it vibrant at all times. It’s no surprise that it ranks among the top party cities in the U.S.
While you’re in town, make sure to stop by the hip South Congress neighborhood to shop at the trendy boutiques and grab some grub at the authentically Austin restaurants. Since Austin is one of the best craft beer cities in the country, you won’t regret checking out some of the local breweries too. After that, head over to Lady Bird Lake and rent a kayak for a relaxing paddling session on the water, or simply go for a walk on the picturesque Hike & Bike Trail. Finally, spend the night bar hopping along the pedestrian-only Sixth Street.
While the Austin airport is located on the outskirts of the city, the main train station is right in the heart of downtown. Similarly, the two bus stations that serve Austin are located close to the city center, making ground transportation the more convenient way to travel in and out of town.
Station Information
Where does the train leave from 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 does the train arrive in Austin?
Main arrival station: 250 N Lamar Blvd
Built in 1947, the Amtrak Station in Austin is one of the stops along Amtrak’s Texas Eagle route which runs from Chicago to San Antonio and connects to Los Angeles. The station, located at 250 N Lamar Boulevard, sits near the banks of the Colorado River in downtown Austin. With just a quick walk from the station, you can reach the beautiful Ladybird Lake-Lamar Beach Park, stylish shopping and dining in the 2nd Street District, and even the state capital complex. Same-day and overnight parking is available at the station, as well as restrooms and vending machines inside.
All train stations in Austin:
- 250 N Lamar Blvd
Need a return trip from Austin to Chicago?
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