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Train Chicago, IL - Los Angeles, CA prices from $270.96
Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by train
The journey from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by train is 1,742.96 mi and takes 44 hr 59 min. There are 1 connections per day, with the first departure at 7:40 AM and the last at 3:50 PM. It is possible to travel from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by train for as little as $270.96 or as much as $1,274.73. The best price for this journey is $270.96.
Lowest Price | $270.96 |
Journey Duration | 44 hr 59 min |
Connection per Day | 1 |
Lowest Price | $270.96 |
Highest Price | $1,274.73 |
First Departure | 7:40 AM |
Last Departure | 3:50 PM |
Distance | 1,742.96 mi |
Departure | Chicago, IL |
Arrival | Los Angeles, CA |
Carriers | Amtrak |
Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA Train Times
TTraveling from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by Train
Embarking on a train journey from Chicago, Illinois, a city renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene, to Los Angeles, California, the world's entertainment capital, offers an unforgettable travel experience. This route, covering a vast distance, typically takes around 44 hr 59 min. Amtrak's Southwest Chief service provides regular and comfortable connections between these iconic cities. With multiple 1 departures weekly, travelers can choose a schedule that best fits their itinerary. To enjoy competitive fares, sometimes as low as $270.96, booking is recommended. For a smooth boarding, arriving at least 30 minutes before departure is advisable.
Amtrak's Southwest Chief offers a range of classes and amenities to cater to different preferences and budgets. The Coach Class provides spacious seating with ample legroom, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets, ideal for leisure and business travelers. For a more luxurious experience, the Sleeper Service offers private rooms with beds, showers, and meals included. The train also features an Observation Car, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the diverse American landscapes, from the Midwest plains to the mountains and deserts of the Southwest.
The journey begins at Chicago's Union Station, a central transportation hub with easy access to numerous attractions, including Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Magnificent Mile. Upon arriving in Los Angeles, passengers disembark at Union Station, conveniently located to explore the city's top attractions, such as Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory, and the Santa Monica Pier.
Things to Do in Los Angeles:
- Explore Hollywood, including the Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Sign.
- Visit the Griffith Observatory for stunning views and space exhibits.
- Relax on the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
- Discover the art collections at the Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).
- Experience the magic of Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood.
- Shop and dine at The Grove and the Original Farmers Market.
- Take a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive for panoramic city views.
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Downtown LA, including the Arts District and Little Tokyo.
- Attend a live show or concert at the Staples Center or the Hollywood Bowl.
- Visit the historic Olvera Street for a taste of Mexican culture and cuisine.
What to Eat in Los Angeles:
- Tacos and Mexican Street Food: Savor authentic flavors from taco trucks and street vendors.
- In-N-Out Burger: A must-try for its classic California-style burgers and fries.
- Korean BBQ: Experience interactive dining with grilled meats in Koreatown.
- Sushi: Indulge in fresh and innovative sushi creations across the city.
- Avocado Toast: A trendy and healthy option popular in LA's cafes.
- Food Trucks: Explore diverse culinary offerings from LA's famous food trucks.
- Thai Food: Enjoy flavorful dishes in the Thai Town neighborhood.
- Health-Conscious Eateries: Sample organic and vegan options that are abundant in LA.
- Dim Sum: Experience traditional Chinese brunch in the San Gabriel Valley.
- Farmers' Markets: Fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal foods from various markets.
Day Trips from Los Angeles:
- Joshua Tree National Park: Explore the unique desert landscapes and Joshua trees, which are ideal for hiking and photography.
- Catalina Island: A scenic ferry ride away, offering outdoor activities, charming towns, and beautiful beaches.
- Santa Barbara: Known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, wineries, and beautiful coastline.
- Palm Springs: A desert oasis with mid-century modern architecture, spas, and golf courses.
- San Diego: Visit the San Diego Zoo Balboa Park and enjoy the vibrant waterfront.
- Ojai is a small town with a relaxed vibe, known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and natural beauty.
- Big Bear Lake: A mountain getaway offering outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating.
- Malibu: Famous for its stunning beaches, surfing spots, and celebrity homes.
- Solvang: A charming Danish-style village in the Santa Ynez Valley known for its wineries and bakeries.
- Temecula: Southern California's wine country, offering vineyard tours and wine tastings.
Travel Tips for Los Angeles:
When visiting Los Angeles, consider renting a car for greater flexibility, as the city is spread out, and public transportation may only cover some areas. The city's climate is generally mild, but packing for varying temperatures is wise, especially if visiting the beaches or mountains. Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, so take the opportunity to explore its diverse neighborhoods and culinary scenes. Be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during rush hours, and plan your travel accordingly. Lastly, while Los Angeles is a tourist-friendly destination, staying aware of your surroundings and practicing general safety precautions is essential, especially in crowded tourist areas and at night.
For those looking to experience the dynamic culture and scenic beauty of the United States, a train journey from Chicago to Los Angeles is a fantastic option. With its comfortable amenities and convenient services, it's an ideal way to explore these two dynamic cities, and Virail can assist in finding the best travel deals for your journey.
Compare prices and tickets from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
Book in advance and save
If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.
Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys
Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA.
Always check special offers
Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.
Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains
If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.
Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average
Price as departure date approaches
Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $222.74 to $349.10 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 36% on your trip!
Best time to book cheap train tickets from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
The cheapest Chicago, IL - Los Angeles, CA train tickets can be found for as low as $140.70 if you’re lucky, or $199.90 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $338.56.
Find the best day to travel to Los Angeles, CA by train
When travelling to Los Angeles, CA by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!
Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA CO2 Emissions by Train
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