1map logoGo to main page

Chicago, IL, USA to Sacramento, CA, USA from $742: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Sacramento, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Sacramento: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$742 by trainBest price
2897 kmDistance
6h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Sacramento with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
$74-609
Recommended
route map
Distance: 2897 km
Duration: 6h 40m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
49h  7m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  52m
Estimated price
$84-379
Company
various
Plane
BART
Train
Average Duration
9h  45m
Estimated price
$116-563
Company
various
Plane
BART
Train
Average Duration
10h  9m
Estimated price
$126-740
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
9h  34m
Estimated price
$154-552
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
10h  37m
Estimated price
$741-843
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
48h  2m
Estimated price
$742-743
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
31h  6m
Estimated price
$744-745
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Sacramento

The journey from Chicago to Sacramento offers a delightful contrast: the bustling, vibrant city life of Chicago juxtaposes with the relaxed, sun-kissed atmosphere of California's capital.

Best Neighborhoods in Sacramento

Sacramento's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and charm for visitors.

Midtown
• Artistic community with vibrant murals and galleries.
• Home to fantastic dining options and craft breweries.
Old Sacramento
• Rich in Gold Rush history and preserved architecture.
• Charming waterfront area with shops and restaurants.
East Sacramento
• Beautiful tree-lined streets and historic homes.
• Popular for its park spaces and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Sacramento's Attractions

Visiting Sacramento's attractions during optimal times can elevate your experience.

California State Capitol Museum
Check out the museum in the early morning on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Sacramento Zoo
Visit on weekdays during school hours for a more peaceful experience.
Old Sacramento Waterfront
Explore in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views and fewer tourists.

Sacramento Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sacramento enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the best times to explore the city. Understanding the weather can help shape your activities, from enjoying outdoor festivals in the summer to discovering cozy indoor attractions during the cooler months.

Dining in Sacramento

For a true taste of Sacramento, try the seasonal farm-to-fork dishes at The Kitchen, where local ingredients create vibrant flavors that contrast with Chicago's hearty fare. The intimate, interactive dining experience here allows you to savor dishes in a setting that celebrates California's agricultural bounty.

Chicago - Sacramento operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Sacramento, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
$74-609

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
6h 52m
Estimated price
$84-379
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to San Francisco

Average Duration
4h 39m
Estimated price
$840-748
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Sacramento

Average Duration
48h 2m
Estimated price
$742-743

Train from Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$841-842

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$3796-3794

Train from Santa Clara Amtrak to Sacramento

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$1542-1540
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$3793-1540

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration
34h 30m
Estimated price
$6098-379620

Bus from Las Vegas Amtrak Bus Stop to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to Sacramento Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$1549-1540

Chicago to Sacramento: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Sacramento offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from the vibrant city of Chicago to the laid-back capital of California, Sacramento, covering a distance of 2056 miles. 🛣️ Enjoy the scenic journey that spans across multiple states, taking approximately 31 hours and 6 minutes behind the wheel from the bustling Midwest to the sunny West Coast. ⛽ With prices ranging from $370 to $550 for the road trip, fuel up and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure exploring the diverse landscapes that lie between these two iconic cities.
Average price
$370 - $550
🚂 Embark on an unforgettable train journey from Chicago to Sacramento! The direct Amtrak service departs daily from Chicago Union Station and arrives at the charming Sacramento station after approximately 2 days and 2 hours of travel time. 💸 Prices for the Chicago to Sacramento train ticket range from $95 to $650, providing options for every budget. Experience the nostalgia and comfort of train travel while immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of this incredible journey from the Midwest to the West Coast.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Sacramento station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary, but Amtrak is the primary operator on this route and offers regional dining options for most long-distance trains. In the view of the Amtrak California Zephyr service (which may include your journey), you can expect a café car with grab-and-go options as well as a dining car for sit-down meals. Check the latest menus and meal hours at Amtrak's website: amtrak.com
• For seating options, Amtrak provides several classes including Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class accommodations. Coach Class is comfortable with reclining seats and offers more budget-friendly options, while Business Class provides wider seats and complimentary beverages. If you're looking for additional privacy and amenities, First Class offers spacious seating options, delicious meals included in your fare, and lounge access in some stations.
• On your way to Sacramento, the main operator is Amtrak, but it's good to keep in mind that there is also the possibility to check Greyhound (greyhound.com) and other regional bus services if you need to explore other options. Upon arrival in Sacramento at the Sacramento Amtrak Station (SAC), you can navigate easily to the city center. Additionally, there is a baggage check service at the station, and you can use their restrooms. To get to the city center, the Rapid Transit bus #51 and Light Rail Line F will take you directly downtown.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Sacramento is convenient with a direct flight that takes just 4 hours and 40 minutes. Southwest Airlines operates flights from Chicago Midway Airport to Sacramento Airport, making the journey seamless. ✈️ The total travel time between Chicago and Sacramento by plane is approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes. This efficient mode of transportation allows travelers to reach their destination in a relatively short time span. 💸 Flight prices between Sacramento and Chicago range from $74 to $609, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets. With multiple flights available, travelers can select the best option that aligns with their preferences and schedules.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Sacramento Airport
🚌 The bus journey from Chicago to Sacramento requires multiple transfers and takes approximately 2 days and 7 hours. There is no direct route available between the two cities, with layovers in St. Louis, Las Vegas, and Bakersfield.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Sacramento Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Sacramento.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Chicago and Sacramento is approximately 1800 miles or 2056 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 24 hours to reach Sacramento from Chicago. By plane, the journey takes around 6 hours and 29 minutes. Driving by car would take approximately 31 hours and 6 minutes. Unfortunately, there is no information provided regarding the travel time by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Chicago to Sacramento is to fly. It takes approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $70 and $600. Flying allows you to reach your destination quickly and conveniently, saving you both time and money compared to other modes of transportation such as train or bus. Overall, flying is the best choice for a smooth and efficient journey from Chicago to Sacramento.
The prices for a train ticket between Chicago and Sacramento can range from $95 to $650, depending on factors such as class of service and time of booking. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Sacramento and Chicago can vary from $275 to $562. It is always recommended to check for the latest prices and availability before making any travel arrangements.
One option to get from Chicago to Sacramento without using public transportation is to drive. The road distance is 2056 miles and it takes approximately 31 hours and 6 minutes to drive from Chicago to Sacramento. However, it is important to note that prices for this option can vary from $370 to $550 for fuel, tolls, and accommodations along the way.
To travel from Chicago to Sacramento without a car, the best options are by train or by flying. Taking the train is a scenic and leisurely way to travel, with a journey time of 2 days and 2 hours. The cost ranges from $95 to $650 depending on the type of ticket. Flying is the quickest option, with a flight time of 6 hours and 29 minutes. Prices for flights range from $70 to $600.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Chicago and Sacramento. The Amtrak train services operate daily and take approximately 2 days and 2 hours to reach Sacramento from Chicago Union Station. For travelers looking for a more convenient option, there is no direct bus from Chicago to Sacramento, but there are bus services available that require transfers and take around 2 days and 10 hours to complete the journey.
The flight between Chicago and Sacramento typically takes 4 hours and 30 minutes. However, flight durations can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and flight paths. In terms of cost, prices for flights between Sacramento and Chicago can range from $74 to $559, depending on factors such as airline, booking time, and availability of seats. It is always recommended to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date flight schedules and prices.
There are over 255 hotels available near Sacramento ranging in price starting from $57. Some of the popular options include The Citizen Hotel, Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, and Hyatt Regency Sacramento. These hotels offer various amenities and are conveniently located in or near the city center, making them great choices for travelers looking for a comfortable stay. Prices may vary depending on the desired location and the specific amenities offered by each hotel.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Peoria