Cheap train tickets from Plano to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Plano to Chicago. Traveling by train from Plano to Chicago usually takes one hour and 11 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Illinois Zephyr train can make the trip in one hour and 9 minutes.
| Distance | 49 mi (79 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 9m |
| Lowest price | $9.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Carl Sandburg |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Plano to Chicago Train Schedule
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There are several train options that can take you from Plano to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Plano to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Plano to Chicago was $9.00. This is basically as cheap as train fares can get. 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 $15.33 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Plano to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Plano to Chicago will cost between $11 and $18. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Plano to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Plano to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $14. If you're thinking of traveling from Plano to Chicago during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $20 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Plano to Chicago on Wanderu at least 14 days ahead of time, you can save about $15.33 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Plano to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Plano to Chicago, including Amtrak Carl Sandburg, Amtrak Illinois Zephyr. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Carl Sandburg | 1 | 1h 13m | $12.92 |
| Amtrak Illinois Zephyr | 1 | 1h 9m | $20.83 |
The Amtrak Carl Sandburg, named after the Pulitzer-winning author, is a sister service to the Illinois Zephyr. Both operate daily services between Chicago and Quincy with additional stops in Naperville and Kewanee. Whether you buy a coach class or business class ticket, you'll have plenty of legroom and complimentary WiFi, plus access to refreshments at the onboard cafe.
The Illinois Zephyr is a passenger train operated by Amtrak, running between Quincy and Chicago. Taking the train from Plano to Chicago is a comfortable option, and tickets on this route cost $20.83 on average. The Illinois Zephyr and its sister train, the Carl Sandburg, serve one of Amtrak's most popular lines. The train features amenities such as airline-style coach seating, a cafe on board, power outlets, restrooms, and Wi-Fi.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Plano to Chicago
Trains leave the station in Plano twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Chicago with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Plano.
TRIPS PER DAY
2
DIRECT TRIPS
2
The distance between Plano and Chicago is approximately 49 miles, or 79 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 hour 11 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 hour 9 minutes. As a relatively short ride, taking the train is an easy way to travel between these two cities.
DISTANCE (MI)
49
DISTANCE (KM)
79
The earliest train departs Plano at 9:24am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:38pm. 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
9:24am
LATEST TRAIN
8:38pm
Trains from Plano to Chicago are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Wednesday
LEAST CROWDED
Sunday
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 does the train leave from in Plano?
Main departure station: 101 W Main St
There is one train station in Plano.
All train stations in Plano:
- 101 W Main St
Where does the train arrive in Chicago?
Main arrival 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
Need a return trip from Chicago to Plano?
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