Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Wed, Apr 01
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$37

Average price

$43

Fastest journey

2 h 36 m

Average duration

2 h 39 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

199 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Champaign, 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 Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Champaign, IL for Chicago, IL on Thu, Apr 02, 3 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 199 km distance in an average of 2 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 36 m .

On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.

  • Amtrak390 Saluki
    10:24 AM2h36
    Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
    1:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $371One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak58 City Of New Orleans
    6:30 AM2h45
    Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
    9:15 AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $371One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak392 Illini
    7:08 PM2h37
    Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
    9:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $531One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 40m. 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 $13, and a bus costs an average of $24.

Distance: 123 miles (199 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$34

Average price

Cheapest

$39

Average price

3h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 28m

Average total duration

2h 58m

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

Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Champaign, 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
amtrak58 City Of New Orleans11:30 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
2h45
2:15 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak8893 AMTRAK · 302 Lincoln Service12:50 PM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
3h50
4:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak390 Saluki3:24 PM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
2h36
6:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Thursday, April 2
amtrak392 Illini12:08 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
2h37
2:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare bus and train 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.

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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL?

The best time to book your train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€11) if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 21:05. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (199 km) distance in 2h 22m.

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
123 miles (199 km)
Average train duration
2h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$13 (€11)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 22m
First train
4:10 AM
Last train
9:05 PM
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 Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Champaign, IL and Chicago, IL from $13 (€11). 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 22m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€11)
Amtrak frequency
3 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

Traveling by train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL

The train connection between Champaign, IL and Chicago, IL is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Chicago. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their journey to experience all that Chicago has to offer.

Train Connection: Champaign to Chicago

Traveling from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes. There are 2 direct connections available each day. Passengers will depart from Champaign-Urbana Station, IL and arrive at Union Station, IL.

Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL Train Connection

The first daily journey departs from Champaign at 09:10 AM and arrives in Chicago at 03:24 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient option to explore the vibrant city of Chicago after a scenic ride through Illinois.

Train Tickets Price for Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Champaign to Chicago is $18 (16.2€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $37 (33.3€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in Illinois.

Exploring Chicago's Iconic Attractions

Welcome to the Willis Tower, once known as the Sears Tower, which held the title of the tallest building in the world for 25 years after its completion in 1973. This iconic skyscraper is not just a marvel of engineering; it symbolizes Chicago's resilience and innovation, standing tall at 1,450 feet with breathtaking views from its Skydeck on the 103rd floor. One unique feature that sets this landmark apart is The Ledge—glass boxes extending out over Michigan Avenue—offering visitors an exhilarating experience like no other.

Next up is Millennium Park, a vibrant urban oasis that opened in 2004 and has since become one of Chicago’s most beloved attractions. It serves as a cultural hub where art meets nature; you can admire works like Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate or catch live performances at Jay Pritzker Pavilion while surrounded by stunning gardens and public spaces. What makes Millennium Park truly special are its interactive installations such as Crown Fountain—a playful blend of technology and artistry that invites visitors to engage directly with their surroundings.

Finally, we arrive at Navy Pier—a historic waterfront destination originally built in 1916 designed to serve both commercial shipping needs and recreational activities for locals and tourists alike. Today it boasts an array of entertainment options including amusement rides like the Centennial Wheel offering panoramic views over Lake Michigan along with theaters, restaurants, shops—and even fireworks during summer weekends! Its unique charm lies not only in its rich history but also in how it seamlessly blends leisure with culture against a picturesque lakeside backdrop.

FAQs: Trains from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Champaign, 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 Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13 (€11), while the average price is around $34 (€27).
The train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL takes 2h 22m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL is 123 miles (199 km).
The first train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:10 AM.
The last train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Champaign, IL that goes to Chicago, IL is Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $13 (€11).
The train journey from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL offers views of the flat and expansive landscapes of central Illinois, with scenes of rural farmland and occasional small towns, but it is not typically considered a scenic route compared to more mountainous or coastal train trips.
A day trip from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL is not feasible due to the travel duration of 2h 22m. There are 3 train trips available 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 Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Champaign, 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 Champaign, 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 Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL

Champaign
Chicago
The major train station for departures in Champaign is Champaign-Urbana Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Champaign-Urbana Station for your trip from Champaign to Chicago.
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Dining
Dining
  • Big Grove Tavern
  • Ko Fusion
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
  • I Hotel and Conference Center
  • Hilton Garden Inn Champaign/ Urbana
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station includes an enclosed waiting area and serves as an intermodal passenger transport center.
Public transit options for Champaign-Urbana Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Intercity bus services

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

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