Cheapest dates for Chicago - San Francisco train tickets
Travel guide Chicago–San Francisco
Information
What train companies operate the route from Chicago to San Francisco?
This route is operated primarily by Amtrak (California Zephyr), with a portion operated by Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (F line).
What is the schedule for the train route from Chicago to San Francisco?
Departures occur daily at 2:00 PM.
What are the departure and arrival train stations for the route from Chicago to San Francisco?
Trains depart from Union Station in Chicago, and buses arrive at the Temporary Transbay Terminal in San Francisco.
What distance is the train route from Chicago to San Francisco?
The overall distance covered by rail is around 2,100 miles.
How long does it take to travel from Chicago to San Francisco by train?
The time of travel is 2 days 5 hours.
What are the stops on the train route from Chicago to San Francisco?
The stops involving transfers are Emeryville Station (walk 4 minutes to next stop) and Shellmound Street at Powell Street. There are many other stops passed along the way which do not involve transfers.
Why should you travel by train from Chicago to San Francisco?
The train trip passes much of the USA’s most beautiful scenery, including winding passages through majestic mountains and canyons.
What is there to see and do in San Francisco?
Commonly-visited attractions in San Francisco include the Golden Gate Bridge (and the surrounding landscape), Union Square, Alcatraz Island (a former prison), Chinatown, and Golden Gate Park. San Francisco offers a unique vibe in the form of a highly liberal and artistic atmosphere. The live music scene is quite lively, with a large number of concert halls, pubs, and theaters featuring live music.