Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Spokane
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Trip Summary
There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Chicago to Spokane. Traveling by train from Chicago to Spokane usually takes 39 hours and 33 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can make the trip in 37 hours and 39 minutes.
| Distance | 1505 mi (2422 km) |
| Fastest train | 37h 39m |
| Lowest price | $233.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Spokane Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Spokane?
There are usually 3 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Spokane.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$429.40 | Avg. Price$250.29Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips4 | Daily Trips3 |
Duration | Duration39h 33mFaster | Duration52h 24m |
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Spokane:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Spokane?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Spokane was $340.88. Considering the distance between Chicago and Spokane, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. 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 $522.55 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Spokane by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Spokane will cost between $230 and $464. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Spokane by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Spokane 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 $249. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Spokane during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $435 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Spokane on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time, you can save about $522.55 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Spokane?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Spokane, including Amtrak Empire Builder, Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 37h 39m | $420.88 |
| Amtrak | 2 | 41h 34m | $438.40 |
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
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 Spokane every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $252.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Spokane
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Spokane. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice. You can also take a train for your return trip from Spokane to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Spokane for $193.
TRIPS PER DAY
4
DIRECT TRIPS
2
The distance between Chicago and Spokane is approximately 1505 miles, or 2422 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 39 hours and 33 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 37 hours and 39 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)
1505
DISTANCE (KM)
2422
The earliest train departs Chicago at 11:10am while the last train of the day leaves at 3:05pm. 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
11:10am
LATEST TRAIN
3:05pm
Trains from Chicago to Spokane 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Sunday
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.
Spokane
As the second-largest city in the state, Spokane is a family-friendly Washington destination that offers plenty of fun for everyone. The first thing you should do is explore the numerous lakes that the city is blessed with. Offering idyllic views as well as the chance to enjoy outdoor recreational activities, the local lakes allow you to fill an entire day with plenty of fun. The best choice would be Lake Pend Oreille, which features still water and a calm vibe. While you’re in town, check out Riverfront Park. Voted one of the most beautiful urban parks in the U.S. by National Geographic, the park sits on the bank of the Spokane River, offering a great chance for you to unwind and get lost in nature. If you seek a cultural experience, Corbin Art Center might just have what you need.
Spokane greets its hungry visitors with plenty of farm-to-table restaurants, which offer the freshest produce. Some local favorites you should check out include Gander & Ryegrass, Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops, or Churchill’s Steakhouse.
Spokane’s main hub of transportation is the bus & train station at 221 W 1st Ave right in the heart of the city’s downtown area. From there, you can catch buses to various cities like Seattle, Missoula and Portland, as well as trains to San Francisco, Chicago and Salt Lake City, among many other places. Spokane is served by Amtrak’s Empire Builder line. The city’s main airport is Spokane International Airport, situated 5 miles west of downtown.
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 Spokane?
Main arrival station: 221 W 1st Ave
The Spokane Intermodal Center on 1st Ave is Spokane’s primary hub for bus and train service. The city’s original train station was built at this location in 1891, and the red brick building has since been remodeled and expanded to include intercity bus service, too. Today, passengers can catch the iconic Amtrak Empire Builder train along its route from Chicago to Seattle or Portland, or hop on a FlixBus US or Jefferson Lines bus heading to destinations throughout the Northwest. The station is just north of I-90 and centrally located in Spokane, within a mile of the sprawling Riverfront Park, the Spokane Convention Center, and Gonzaga University.
All train stations in Spokane:
- 221 W 1st Ave
Need a return trip from Spokane to Chicago?
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