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Trip Summary
You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Wenatchee and Chicago. The average train journey from Wenatchee to Chicago takes 45 hours and 42 minutes, but some Amtrak Empire Builder train trips are as short as 41 hours and 48 minutes.
| Distance | 1638 mi (2637 km) |
| Fastest train | 41h 48m |
| Lowest price | $103.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Wenatchee to Chicago?
Over the past month, a train ticket between Wenatchee and Chicago cost $103.00, on average. Since this route covers a considerable distance, tickets are typically a bit pricier than most train fares. Booking your trip at least 13 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around $241.83 more.
Monthly average prices
Prices as travel date approaches
If you're looking to save on your train trip from Wenatchee to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 13 days in advance. That way, you’ll save $241.83 compared to booking your ticket last minute.
Which train should you take from Wenatchee to Chicago?
2 train services operate from Wenatchee to Chicago. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 2d 1h 35m | $322.88 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 1 | 1d 17h 49m | $258.25 |
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 Wenatchee to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $257.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Wenatchee and Chicago is approximately 1638 miles, or 2637 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 45 hours and 42 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 41 hours and 48 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 departing from Wenatchee to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Monday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Monday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Thursday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Wenatchee at 1:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Wenatchee twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Chicago faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Wenatchee.
City Information
Wenatchee
Image credit: Unsplash
Wenatchee is a central Washington city located at the Cascade Mountains' foot. It's popularly known as the Apple Capital of the World since it has many orchards with crisp, delicious fruit.
Wenatchee has a mix of museums for historical spots like the Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center and recreational and outdoor centers like the Wenatchee Confluence State Park and Walla Walla Point Park. You can check out the Two Rivers Art Gallery for art lovers or visit the Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort for skiing and lifts. Outdoor enthusiasts can check out the different outdoor trails, hiking trails, natural areas, and different trailheads.
Wenatchee is home to different wineries due to the many vineyards, like the Stemilt Creek Winery and Chateau Faire Le Pont Winery. Different famous breweries, brewpubs, bars, and taprooms enhance the nightlife and dining experience. You can visit bars, shops, clubs, restaurants, the Ohme Gardens, and more when you visit downtown Wenatchee.
You can easily access Wenatchee by train and bus from neighboring cities. The Amtrak serves the city by train via the Amtrak Empire Builder, while Amtrak Thruway and FlixBus provide bus services.
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 Wenatchee?
Main departure station: Wenatchee Train Station
There are two stations in Wenatchee where you can board the train to Chicago.
All train stations in Wenatchee:
Wenatchee Train Station
Link Transit Columbia Station
Where is the train station in Chicago?
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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