Route snapshot
| Route | Chicago (CHI) to Denver (DEN) |
|---|---|
| Stations | Chicago Union Station to Denver Union Station |
| Trains | California Zephyr |
| Typical travel time | about 18h to 19h |
| How often | Typically one departure per day, so check the schedule for your travel date. |
Chicago to Denver train: what to expect
At about 18h to 19h, this is an overnight (or multi-day) journey. Compare a coach seat with a sleeper room, since sleeper fares on long-distance trains often include meals. Typically one departure per day, so check the schedule for your travel date.
Stations in Chicago and Denver
Trains on this route run between Chicago Union Station and Denver Union Station. In Chicago the station is at 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL. Union Station is the hub for Amtrak routes fanning out across the Midwest and the whole country. In Denver the station is at 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO. Denver Union Station is the starting point for the California Zephyr through the Rockies.
How to book cheap Chicago to Denver train tickets
- Book early: Fares generally rise as the seats on a train sell, so booking a few weeks ahead is usually the cheapest approach.
- Stay flexible by a day: Moving your trip by a day, or choosing a midweek or off-peak departure, can lower the fare noticeably.
- Check discounts: Senior, student, child and other eligible fares may be available, so ask when you call.
- On this route: The California Zephyr runs overnight across the plains toward the Rockies.
More train tickets from Chicago
- Chicago to St. Louis train tickets
- Washington DC to Chicago train tickets
- Chicago to Minneapolis-St. Paul train tickets
- Chicago to Detroit train tickets
- Chicago to Milwaukee train tickets
- Chicago to New Orleans train tickets
More ways to book
New to rail travel? Read our guide on how to book a train, learn how to find cheap train tickets, or browse all train tickets from Chicago and from Denver.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from Chicago to Denver?
The trip takes about 18h to 19h on the California Zephyr, depending on the departure you choose.
How much do Chicago to Denver train tickets cost?
Fares depend on the travel date, how far ahead you book, the seat class and how full the train is. The cheapest tickets are usually bought early for off-peak departures. Call (888) 885-6306 and our team will check the lowest available fare for your dates.
Which stations do Chicago to Denver trains use?
Trains run between Chicago Union Station (CHI) and Denver Union Station (DEN). Always confirm the station on your ticket, since some cities have more than one.
Is there a direct train from Chicago to Denver?
Many departures on this route are direct, but schedules vary by day and season, and some trips may involve a connection. Check the departures for your travel date before booking.
How do I book a train from Chicago to Denver?
Enter your cities and date in the search box on this page, or call (888) 885-6306. Our team can find and confirm a fare for you.