Cheap train tickets from Salt Lake City to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Salt Lake City to Chicago. Traveling by train from Salt Lake City to Chicago usually takes 37 hours and 37 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can make the trip in 34 hours and 19 minutes.
| Distance | 1257 mi (2023 km) |
| Fastest train | 34h 19m |
| Lowest price | $225.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak California Zephyr |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Salt Lake City to Chicago Train Schedule
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Average score for trains from Salt Lake City to Chicago (Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
There are several train options that can take you from Salt Lake City to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Salt Lake City to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Salt Lake City to Chicago was $233.50. Considering the distance between Salt Lake City and Chicago, 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 $954.50 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Salt Lake City to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Salt Lake City to Chicago will cost between $142 and $894. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Salt Lake City to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Salt Lake City 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 $205. If you're thinking of traveling from Salt Lake City to Chicago during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $328 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 Salt Lake City to Chicago on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time, you can save about $954.50 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Salt Lake City to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Salt Lake City to Chicago, including Amtrak California Zephyr, Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 34h 19m | $472.30 |
| Amtrak | 1 | 41h 31m | $332.32 |
Amtrak California Zephyr is one of the longest train routes in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Emeryville. With views of the Colorado and Mississippi rivers, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rockies, it highlights some of the most stunning views the US has.
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 Salt Lake City to Chicago every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $234.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Salt Lake City to Chicago
The distance between Salt Lake City and Chicago is approximately 1257 miles, or 2023 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 37 hours and 37 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 34 hours and 19 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)
1257
DISTANCE (KM)
2023
The earliest train departs Salt Lake City at 3:20am while the last train of the day leaves at 3:20am. 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
3:20am
LATEST TRAIN
3:20am
Trains from Salt Lake City 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Monday
LEAST CROWDED
Thursday
City Information
Salt Lake City
A city shrouded in a mystical veil to most visitors, Salt Lake City stands among one of the most culturally unique destinations in the U.S. Salt Lake City offers tourists a unique chance to learn more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and Temple Square is the best place to do so. Housing the Salt Lake Temple along with other significant historic buildings, the square will take you back to the earliest days of the city, immersing you in a unique cultural experience. While here, don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Great Salt Lake itself and to dive into its cool and refreshing water.
Salt Lake City features a diverse food scene, with Mexican food receiving a lot of attention. Those who wish to enjoy the best Mexican dishes in town could try Red Iguana. For travelers who are simply looking for the best burgers, Crown Burgers’ char-broiled patties will certainly be a great choice.
The Salt Lake City Intermodal Hub is the central transportation hub in the city. It is currently served by several rail services such as Amtrak, TRAX, and FrontRunner. Travelers can also catch Greyhound buses at the station. The Salt Lake City International Airport is the main airport for the city. Located about 4 miles west of Downtown, the airport is a major gateway to the Mountain West and the West Coast region.
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 Salt Lake City?
Main departure station: 340 S 600 W
The Amtrak Station is a part of Salt Lake Central Station, the principal transportation hub in Salt Lake City. The station is within walking distance from the Bus Terminal, allowing you to easily transfer to bus service on Amtrak Thruway or Jefferson Lines. Along with UTA commuter rail, the station serves Amtrak’s California Zephyr on its journey from Emeryville to Chicago. A park-and-ride lot is available across the street, and travelers can rent bikes from the on-site bicycle sharing service, Greenbike. However you get around town, you’ll appreciate the convenience of the Amtrak station, located less than a mile from the heart of downtown Salt Lake City.
All train stations in Salt Lake City:
- 340 S 600 W
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 Salt Lake City?
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