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Cheap train tickets from San Marcos to Chicago

Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.

Trip Summary

There are usually 6 daily train trips available from San Marcos to Chicago. Traveling by train from San Marcos to Chicago usually takes 1 day and 10 hours, but the fastest Amtrak Texas Eagle train can make the trip in 1 day, 5 hours, and 27 minutes.

Distance
1008 mi (1623 km)
Fastest train
29h 27m
Lowest price
CZK 3,528.18
Trains per day
1
Most frequent service
Amtrak
Train lines
2

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San Marcos to Chicago Train Schedule

Is it better to travel by bus or train from San Marcos to Chicago?

There are usually 8 daily bus trips available from San Marcos to Chicago.

Train
Bus
Avg. PriceCZK 6,015.23Avg. PriceCZK 4,262.61Cheaper
Daily Trips6Daily Trips8
Duration34hDuration30h 11mFaster
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There are several train options that can take you from San Marcos to Chicago:

See more details

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from San Marcos to Chicago was CZK 4,486. Considering the distance between San Marcos and Chicago, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 21 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CZK 6,044.88 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from San Marcos to Chicago by travel date

CZK 6,585CZK 4,390CZK 2,195OctNov

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from San Marcos to Chicago will cost between CZK 4,437 and CZK 6,580. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from San Marcos to Chicago by month

CZK 7,950CZK 6,360CZK 4,770CZK 3,180CZK 1,590JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from San Marcos 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 CZK 4,740. If you're thinking of traveling from San Marcos to Chicago during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CZK 7,944 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

CZK 10,550CZK 8,440CZK 6,330CZK 4,220CZK 2,110020

By booking your train trip from San Marcos to Chicago on Wanderu at least 21 days ahead of time, you can save about CZK 6,044.88 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from San Marcos to Chicago?

2 train services operate from San Marcos to Chicago. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 5 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak535h 27mCZK 5,604.95
Amtrak Texas Eagle129h 29mCZK 7,304.36

  • 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 5 Amtrak trains from San Marcos to Chicago every day, as well as 5 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from CZK 3,528.18.

    Amtrak train passing through mountains, offering affordable train tickets for scenic rail travel - WanderuModern Amtrak train at a station, providing cheap train travel and convenient Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak train speeding through scenic fall foliage, featuring cheap train tickets for long-distance trips - WanderuInterior view of a table in the dining car of an Amtrak train - WanderuInterior view of the dining car on an Amtrak train. Find affordable train tickets on - WanderuClean and spacious Amtrak bathroom, offering convenience and comfort for passengers during long train journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak power outlet for charging devices, providing convenience for passengers during affordable travel with cheap train tickets - WanderuComfortable Amtrak seats with ample legroom, ideal for relaxing during long journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuSpacious Amtrak seats with reclining options, offering comfort and convenience for passengers on affordable train travel - WanderuAmtrak viewing car seats with large windows, offering panoramic views and comfort for passengers enjoying scenic routes with affordable train tickets - Wanderu

  • Amtrak Texas Eagle is a train service operated by Amtrak that connects to Texas. It links Chicago with the heart of the Lone Star State in San Antonio, going to cities such as St. Louis and Dallas. Onboard amenities include restrooms, power outlets, complimentary WiFi, and a designated restaurant car with full meals.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from San Marcos to Chicago

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from San Marcos 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.

There are 6 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from San Marcos 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 Marcos. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from San Marcos to Chicago for CZK 2,381.

Trains per day

6

Direct trains

1

The distance between San Marcos and Chicago is approximately 1,008 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 day and 10 hours, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 day, 5 hours, and 27 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)

1008

Distance (km)

1623

The earliest train departs San Marcos at 8:22 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 8:22 AM. 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

8:22am

Last train

8:22am

Trains from San Marcos to Chicago 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Friday

Least crowded

Monday

City Information

Chicago

CHI-0CHI-1CHI-2

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 Marcos?

Main departure station: 338 S Guadalupe St - San Marcos Intermodal Station

There is one train station in San Marcos.

All train stations in San Marcos:

  • 338 S Guadalupe St - San Marcos Intermodal Station

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main arrival station: Union Station

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0CHIUST-2

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 San Marcos?

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