City to city
Chicago to Denver by Train
The direct train from Chicago to Denver is the Amtrak California Zephyr, an overnight service taking about 18 to 19 hours to cross the Midwest.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California Zephyr | about 18 to 19 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
Traveling by rail between the Midwest and the Rocky Mountains is a straightforward trip. The route connects two major rail hubs, offering an alternative to flying or driving across the Great Plains. Passengers board in downtown Chicago and arrive directly in downtown Denver the following day. This segment forms the first half of a famous transcontinental rail route. You can relax and watch the scenery change from urban centers to vast agricultural landscapes. Whether you are connecting from the East Coast or starting your journey in Illinois, this train provides a comfortable overnight transit to Colorado.
Your train options
The only direct train on this route is the California Zephyr, operating daily in each direction as of 2026. The journey takes about 18 to 19 hours and involves traveling overnight. Passengers can choose between standard Coach with reclining seats and leg rests, or upgrade to a private room. Sleeping accommodations include the Superliner Roomette, Superliner Bedroom, Family Bedroom, and Accessible Bedroom. If you book a sleeper, your meals in the Dining car are included in the ticket price. Coach passengers can purchase food from the cafe in the lower level of the Sightseer Lounge car. For advice on which class to book, read our guide to Amtrak roomettes and bedrooms explained. If you are on a budget, sleeping in coach overnight is a popular option. Track work occasionally causes bus substitutions, so check alerts before travel.
The journey
The trip from Illinois to Colorado crosses the American Midwest. Departing Chicago, the train rolls through the farmland of Illinois and Iowa. A major highlight of the first day is the crossing of the Mississippi River at Burlington. Other stops in this agricultural region include Galesburg, Mount Pleasant, and Ottumwa. By the time the train reaches Omaha, daylight is usually fading. Much of the Nebraska section, including stops at Lincoln, Hastings, and McCook, runs at night on the westbound schedule. Passengers wake up the next morning on the high plains of Colorado. After a final intermediate stop at Fort Morgan, the train approaches the Front Range before arriving in Denver. The Sightseer Lounge car offers large windows to observe the changing landscape throughout the daylight portions of the trip.
The stations
The trip begins at Chicago Union Station, located in the West Loop just west of the Chicago River. The Great Hall, opened in 1925, serves as a classic Beaux Arts waiting room. Sleeping car passengers have access to the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge. The station connects easily to Metra commuter trains and the CTA Blue Line Clinton stop. You will arrive at Denver Union Station, a restored historic building in Lower Downtown that reopened in 2014 with a hotel, restaurants, and bars inside. From here, you can catch the Regional Transportation District commuter rail line A to Denver International Airport, or connect to RTD light rail and buses.
Tips
- Read our first time on Amtrak guide to understand the boarding process in Chicago.
- Review our Amtrak booking tips to secure the best fares for sleeper cabins.
- Pack a small overnight bag if you book a roomette, as space for large luggage is limited.
- Check the current timetable for exact departure times and potential track work alerts.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to change trains between Chicago and Denver?
No, you do not need to change trains. The California Zephyr provides a direct service between Chicago Union Station and Denver Union Station. The train runs daily in each direction and the entire trip takes about 18 to 19 hours.
Are meals included on the train to Denver?
Meals in the Dining car are included if you book a sleeping car accommodation, such as a Superliner Roomette or Bedroom. Coach passengers must pay for their own food and can purchase meals and snacks from the Sightseer Lounge car.