City to city
Chicago to Flagstaff by Train
You can travel directly from Chicago to Flagstaff on the Amtrak Southwest Chief, an overnight train journey that takes about 31 to 32 hours.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Chief | about 31 to 32 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
The journey from the Midwest to northern Arizona is one of the most popular long distance routes on the Amtrak network. Riding the train between Chicago and Flagstaff offers a relaxing way to cross the country. You avoid the stress of flying or driving, and you can watch the changing landscapes of the American West roll past your window. This route runs daily and connects major cities with small towns across Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. Whether you are heading to the Grand Canyon or exploring historic Route 66, the train delivers you right to the center of Flagstaff.
Your train options
The Southwest Chief operates daily in each direction as of 2026. Because the trip takes about 31 to 32 hours, you will spend one night on board. You have several choices for accommodation. Budget travelers can book a coach seat, which includes reclining seats and leg rests. If you want to sleep flat, you can reserve a Superliner Roomette or a Superliner Bedroom. Families might opt for the Family Bedroom, and there is also an Accessible Bedroom available. You can learn more about these options in our Amtrak sleeper accommodations guide.
All passengers have access to the Sightseer Lounge car, which features large windows for watching the scenery. Passengers in sleeping cars get meals included in the dining car, while coach passengers can purchase food on board. If you are on a tight budget, read our tips for sleeping in coach overnight.
The journey
The route covers a massive variety of landscapes. Leaving Chicago, you cross the Illinois prairie and cross the Mississippi River at Fort Madison. The train then rolls through northern Missouri farmland before reaching Kansas City.
Westbound trains usually cross the old Santa Fe main line through Kansas at night. By morning, you reach Colorado and begin climbing. Between Trinidad and Lamy, the train crosses Raton Pass. This is the highest point on the route at roughly 7,580 feet. You then travel across the high plains and mesas of northern New Mexico, following the historic Santa Fe Trail.
After a stop in Albuquerque, the train enters the red rock country of western New Mexico. You will also pass through the Painted Desert area near Winslow before arriving in Arizona. The scenery is highly dependent on the time of year and whether you travel eastbound or westbound, as this changes which sections you see during daylight hours.
The stations
Your trip begins at Chicago Union Station, located in the West Loop just a short walk or bus ride from the Loop. The station opened in 1925 and features a classic Beaux Arts waiting room called the Great Hall. It serves as the hub for most western long distance trains. Premium passengers can use the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge.
You arrive at the Flagstaff station, a historic 1926 Santa Fe depot that also houses a visitor centre on historic Route 66. Flagstaff is a mountain town at about 7,000 feet, so it remains cool even in summer. From here, you can easily find shuttles and tours connecting to the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Tips
- Book your sleeper accommodation early because roomettes and bedrooms often sell out months in advance.
- Review our Amtrak booking tips to help secure the best fares for your journey.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater because the air conditioning on the train can be quite strong.
- If you are a first time Amtrak rider, pack essential toiletries in a small bag for easy access.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to change trains between Chicago and Flagstaff?
No, you do not need to change trains. The Southwest Chief provides a direct service between Chicago and Flagstaff. The train runs daily in each direction, making the trip straightforward and relaxing.
Is there food available on the train?
Yes, the Southwest Chief carries a dining car and a Sightseer Lounge car. Passengers traveling in a roomette or bedroom have dining car meals included in their ticket. Coach passengers can buy meals, snacks, and drinks from the lounge or dining car during the trip.
Can I get to the Grand Canyon from the Flagstaff station?
Yes, the Flagstaff station is a major gateway for the Grand Canyon. You can connect to shuttles and guided tours that take you directly to the Grand Canyon South Rim. The station itself is located right on historic Route 66.