Train from San Luis Obispo to Chicago: Tickets & Schedules

Next train departures

Next departures for San Luis Obispo to Chicago on February 3
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
AmtrakTrain
AMTRAK Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILCheapestFastest
AmtrakTrain
AMTRAK Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
AmtrakTrain
AMTRAK Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
AmtrakTrain
AMTRAK Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
AmtrakTrain
AMTRAK Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Last Friday at 3:40 PM PST.

Compare 2 ways to go from San Luis Obispo to Chicago

We recommend taking the bus

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Bus stands out as a good way to reach Chicago. The journey takes about 2 days, 4 hours 45 minutes and with fares starting at just $225, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

3bus per day
2d 4hAverage Duration
1825 milesDistance
74kgCO₂ emissions
Average Price$225 - $408Average Duration2d 4h
74kg CO₂e
Average Price$277 - $2,823Average Duration2d 20h
268kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo to Chicago by train

Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.

  1. How much is the train ticket from San Luis Obispo to Chicago?

    The cheapest train tickets from San Luis Obispo to Chicago start from $277. The average price for this train route is around $438. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.

  2. How long is the train journey from San Luis Obispo to Chicago?

    The average train ride duration from San Luis Obispo to Chicago is 2d 20h, covering a distance of 1825 miles (2943 km). The quickest train can get you there in 2d 6h and is operated by Amtrak.

  3. Which train operators service the San Luis Obispo to Chicago route?

    Several major train operators operate on this route with 2 trains available per day.

  4. What is the earliest and latest departure time for the train from San Luis Obispo to Chicago?

    The earliest train departs from San Luis Obispo to Chicago at 6:11am. And the latest train departs at 3:37pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found
01/31
$308
02/01
No data
Today
No data
02/03
$308
02/04
$285
02/05
$266
02/06
$266
02/07
$266
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from San Luis Obispo to Chicago was searched and found on Feb 5, 2026 with a price of $266

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from San Luis Obispo to Chicago, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $266 to $1,634 for a train ticket from San Luis Obispo to Chicago based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $266 which is on 2026-02-05.

People from around the world trust Busbud