Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Houston
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Houston. Traveling by train from Chicago to Houston usually takes 31 hours and 42 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 23 hours and 35 minutes.
- Distance
- 942 mi (1516 km)
- Fastest train
- 23h 35m
- Lowest price
- NOK 1,892.80
- Trains per day
- 0
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 1
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Chicago to Houston Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Houston?
There are usually 24 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Houston.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceNOK 3,319.70 | Avg. PriceNOK 1,826.65Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips24 |
Duration | Duration31h 42m | Duration31h 37mFaster |

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Houston (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
4.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Houston:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Houston?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Houston was NOK 2,324.46. Considering the distance between Chicago and Houston, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 28 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around NOK 3,301.05 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Houston by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Houston will cost between NOK 1,874 and NOK 6,454. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Houston by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Houston 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 NOK 2,413. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Houston during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of NOK 3,672 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 Houston on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time, you can save about NOK 3,301.05 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Houston?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to Houston. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 31h 42m | NOK 3,319.70 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Houston every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from NOK 1,892.80.










Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Houston
Trains leave the station in Chicago twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you change trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Houston to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Houston for NOK 1,026.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
0
The distance between Chicago and Houston is approximately 942 miles, or 1516 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 31 hours and 42 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 23 hours and 35 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)
942
Distance (km)
1516
The earliest train departs Chicago at 2:10pm 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.
First train
2:10pm
Last train
2:10pm
Trains from Chicago to Houston 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Friday
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.
Houston



Houston, Texas is one of the most populous cities and among the most expansive cities in the U.S. As a result, Houston has become the leading commercial center in the Southern United States. Astronomy aficionados recognize Houston as the city where NASA’s Mission Control Center is located, and music fans know Houston as the birthplace of Queen B herself, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter.
Even though Houston has a relatively small downtown area, it is packed with exciting things you can do while you’re in town. If you’re in the mood for a cultural outing, head to the Theater District where you are sure to find a play or a music performance you’d enjoy, or check out the Museum District that boasts more than 20 different museums and galleries. Since Houston is the most racially and ethnically diverse city in the country, its restaurant scene is one of a kind offering a rich variety of cuisines from all over the world. The many experiences available in Houston make it one of Texas' best vacation destinations.
As one of the main metropolitan cities in the U.S., Houston is very well connected to the rest of the country and the world. The main bus and train stations are both located right in the heart of downtown making it easy to get to your final destination by public transit or car. There are also several airports within the city’s vicinity that provide a good variety of options depending on where you’re flying to or from.
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 Houston?
Main arrival station: 902 Washington Ave

The Amtrak Station on Washington Avenue is a key stop on the Sunset Limited train route that runs from Los Angeles to New Orleans. Restrooms, vending machines, and checked baggage services are available inside the waiting room of the station. There is also plenty of free same-day and overnight parking onsite. Downtown Houston is within a quick walk, where you can find hotels, restaurants, and attractions in the nearby Theater District, Civic Center, and Skyline District.
All train stations in Houston:
- 902 Washington Ave
Need a return trip from Houston to Chicago?
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