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San Antonio to Chicago train

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San Antonio - Chicago Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

3 trains operate daily from San Antonio to Chicago. The train trip from San Antonio to Chicago is usually about 54 hours and 50 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Texas Eagle train can get you there in as little as 30 hours and 42 minutes.

Distance1053 mi (1694 km)
Fastest train30h 42m
Lowest price$94.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Texas Eagle
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from San Antonio to Chicago

(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)

4.0

4.0

Matthew

September 27, 2019- Solo travel

Amtrak Texas Eagle

Pros: The cost of the ticket. Cons: Sleeping conditions. Tips: Bring a blanket and pillow dawg they don’t give you that stuff even if your trip is over 24 hours.

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from San Antonio to Chicago was $261.11. Considering the distance between San Antonio and Chicago, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 4 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $23.89 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Monthly average prices

$225$180$135$90$45AMJJASONDJFM
Ticket prices for the train from San Antonio to Chicago 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 $163. If you're thinking of traveling from San Antonio to Chicago during October, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $218 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in October, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

$325$260$195$130$653020100

Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from San Antonio to Chicago. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 4 days before departure, you can save around $23.89. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!

Which train should you take from San Antonio to Chicago?

2 train services operate from San Antonio to Chicago. Amtrak Texas Eagle usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak11d 7h 50m$214.98
Amtrak Texas Eagle22d 9h 6m$303.49
  • 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 1 Amtrak trains from San Antonio to Chicago every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $183.

  • Amtrak Texas Eagle train tickets from San Antonio to Chicago start from $94, and on average cost . Daily there are 2 Amtrak Texas Eagle schedules to Chicago. Amtrak Texas Eagle in San Antonio leaves from 350 Hoefgen St and 11 other stations. And in Chicago trains arrive at Chicago (Union Station), Illinois .

    From San Antonio to Chicago train travel on Amtrak Texas Eagle takes 57 hours and 6 minutes. If you are looking to get to Chicago faster, Amtrak Texas Eagle offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 30 hours and 42 minutes.

    If you're considering a weeked trip, Amtrak Texas Eagle offers 2 schedules for you to choose from. You can expect to pay for a one-way train ticket to Chicago.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from San Antonio to Chicago. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

The distance between San Antonio and Chicago is approximately 1053 miles, or 1694 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 54 hours and 50 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 30 hours and 42 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.

Trains from San Antonio to Chicago are the most crowded on Monday. 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 Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

The earliest train departs San Antonio at 12:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:00am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from San Antonio to Chicago. 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 Chicago to San Antonio.

City Information

San Antonio

San Antonio, TX - SAT-0

Image credit: Unsplash

San Antonio, TX - SAT-1

Image credit: Unsplash

San Antonio, TX - SAT-2

Image credit: Unsplash

San Antonio is a fast-growing city located in the southwest corner of the Texas Triangle. In addition to the alluring year-round warm weather, San Antonio offers a blend of rich history with contemporary attractions and cuisine.

If there's one thing to remember from your trip to San Antonio, it’s the Alamo! This 18th century fortress is one of five Spanish missions in the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, all of which are connected by a scenic hiking and biking trail. If history isn't your thing, the River Walk along the San Antonio River is a much livelier spot. This shaded path is lined with shops and restaurants, and you could spend an entire day strolling, shopping, and eating along the river. Don't sleep on the riverside bars, either – San Antonio is one of the cheapest drinking cities in the U.S. so you can bar-hop to your heart’s (and your wallet’s) delight.

Traveling with little ones? San Antonio is home to the San Antonio Zoo, SeaWorld, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, any one of which will provide a thrilling adventure with no screen time required. Visitors of all ages will find treasures at Historic Market Square, the largest Mexican market in the U.S., where handcrafted art from local artisans is available alongside authentic Mexican food.

San Antonio is one of the biggest cities in the Lone Star State, so it is very easy to travel to other Texas destinations like Austin, Houston, and Dallas by bus or by train, or to destinations farther afield through the San Antonio International Airport.

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 is the train station in San Antonio?

350 Hoefgen St - SATAMT-0

Image credit: Tony Kent

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: 350 Hoefgen St

The San Antonio Amtrak Station is adjacent to the city’s vibrant downtown, nestled between the Alamodome sports complex and the historic Sunset Station where train service began in 1902. Amtrak operations moved to its new home at 350 Hoefgen Ave in 1998, where passengers can board the Texas Eagle to travel to Chicago, or connect to the Sunset Limited heading to Los Angeles. The stuccoed, Spanish Mission Revival style station is fully accessible, and offers comfortable seating as well as restrooms available in the waiting room. Two of San Antonio’s most popular attractions, the bustling Riverwalk and the historic Alamo, cannot be missed and luckily are within just 1 mile of the station.

All train stations in San Antonio:

  • 350 Hoefgen St

  • Union Station

  • 700 W San Francisco Ave

  • 400 N Toole Ave

  • Amtrak Platform - 198 E Emporia St

  • 100 W Commercial St

  • 281 Gila St

  • Palm Springs Station Rd

  • 44605 W Mercado St

  • 100 N Main St

  • 400 East Railroad Ave

  • 102 W Holland Ave

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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:

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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