Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Thu, Apr 02
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$75

Average price

$151

Fastest journey

2 h 19 m

Average duration

2 h 30 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

189 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around $151 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Bloomington, IL for Chicago, IL on Thu, Apr 02, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 189 km distance in an average of 2 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 19 m .

On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 2 h 41 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak300 Lincoln Service
    07:06AM2h19
    Uptown Station, Normal, IL
    09:25AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $751One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak22 Texas Eagle
    11:08AM2h41
    Uptown Station, Normal, IL
    01:49PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $2271One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $15, and a bus costs an average of $31.

Distance: 117 miles (189 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$49

Average price

2h 56m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 44m

Average total duration

5h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL trains for today, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak300 Lincoln Service12:06 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h19
2:25 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak302 Lincoln Service2:16 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h24
4:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak1022 Texas Eagle6:23 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h41
9:04 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner10:35 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h25
1:00 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Thursday, April 2
amtrak306 Lincoln Service1:17 AM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h26
3:43 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Apr 02
Fri
Apr 03
Sat
Apr 04
Sun
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Wed
Apr 08

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 (€12) if you book in advance.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:06, the last at 20:17. The fastest train covers the 117 miles (189 km) distance in 2h 19m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
117 miles (189 km)
Average train duration
2h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$15 (€12)
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
2h 19m
First train
07:06
Last train
20:17
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Train companies: Amtrak from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Bloomington, IL and Chicago, IL from $15 (€12). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Price
$15 (€12)
Amtrak frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15 (€12), while the average price is around $37 (€30).
The train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL takes 2h 19m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 7:06 AM.
The distance by train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is 117 miles (189 km).
The last train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 8:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Bloomington, IL that goes to Chicago, IL is Uptown Station, Normal, IL, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL offers a mix of rural and urban scenery. Passengers can enjoy views of the Midwest's flat farmlands, small towns, and glimpses of the Illinois River, transitioning to urban landscapes as they approach the Chicago skyline.
A day trip from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 19m and the distance is 117 miles (189 km). Trains operate 4 times per day.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Bloomington, IL nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Bloomington
Chicago
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
Dining
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
  • Hall 2: Metra services
  • Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL

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