Texas Eagle – Amtrak Train Route Guide
The Texas Eagle is a long-distance Amtrak train route that connects the Midwest with Texas. Running primarily between Chicago and San Antonio, the route also provides through-service connections to Los Angeles on selected days, making it an important link between central and southern United States.
Route Overview
- Primary route: Chicago, Illinois → San Antonio, Texas
- Extended service: Chicago → Los Angeles (via Sunset Limited connections)
- Approximate distance: ~1,300 miles (Chicago–San Antonio)
- Typical travel time: about 32–34 hours
- Service type: Long-distance, overnight
The Texas Eagle serves a mix of major cities, mid-sized towns, and regional hubs, making it useful for both long-distance travelers and intermediate journeys.
States and Major Stops
The Texas Eagle passes through the following states:
- Illinois
- Missouri
- Arkansas
- Texas
Key stations along the route include:
- Chicago, IL – Chicago Union Station
- St. Louis, MO
- Little Rock, AR
- Dallas, TX
- Austin, TX
- San Antonio, TX
View the complete station directory here:
Train Stations in the United States & Canada
Who Should Use the Texas Eagle?
- Travelers moving between the Midwest and Texas
- Passengers visiting major cities like Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio
- Long-distance travelers seeking an overnight rail option
- Rail travelers connecting to other Amtrak routes in Chicago or Texas
Onboard Classes & Accommodation
Coach Class
- Reclining seats suitable for long-distance travel
- Overhead storage for carry-on luggage
- Access to café car food services
Sleeper Accommodations
- Roomettes and Bedrooms for overnight comfort
- Meals usually included for sleeper passengers
- Increased privacy and attendant service
For a detailed breakdown of sleeper options, see:
Amtrak Sleeper Class Guide
Dining & Onboard Services
- Café car serving snacks and beverages
- Dining service on selected segments and sleeper sections
- Restrooms in each coach
- Power outlets available in many seats (varies by equipment)
Wi-Fi availability is limited and should not be relied upon for the full journey.
Connections and Through Service
At key stations, the Texas Eagle connects with other Amtrak routes:
- Chicago – connections to multiple long-distance and corridor routes, including the Empire Builder and California Zephyr
- San Antonio – through cars connect to the Sunset Limited on select days for travel toward Los Angeles
Booking the Texas Eagle
Tickets can be booked using:
- Amtrak official website
- Amtrak mobile app
- Station ticket counters and kiosks
Prices vary based on travel dates, demand, and accommodation type. Sleeper accommodations are limited and often sell out early.
For booking tips and fare guidance, see:
Amtrak Ticket Booking Guide
Travel Tips for Texas Eagle Passengers
- Book sleeper cabins early if traveling overnight
- Pack essentials in a small bag for easy overnight access
- Bring snacks and entertainment, especially for long daytime stretches
- Allow flexibility in arrival times due to possible delays
More general travel advice:
Amtrak Travel Tips
FAQs
Does the Texas Eagle run every day?
Yes, the Texas Eagle typically operates daily between Chicago and San Antonio.
Does it go all the way to Los Angeles?
Through-service to Los Angeles is available on select days via connection with the Sunset Limited. Always check current schedules when booking.
Are meals included?
Meals are generally included for sleeper passengers. Coach passengers can purchase food from the café car.
For more Amtrak-related questions, visit:
Amtrak FAQ
Note: The Texas Eagle is part of the nationwide Amtrak network. For a complete overview of routes and services, see:
Amtrak – America’s National Train Service.