- Must visit
McLean County Museum of History
Outstanding local history museum in a restored courthouse annex, featuring Abraham Lincoln, Route 66, and immersive county exhibits.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Alton, IL to Bloomington, 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 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €13, and a bus costs an average of €36.
Distance: 126 miles (204 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€20 Average price Cheapest | €44 Average price | €25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 23m Average total duration 9h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL is a train with an average price of €20.
This is compared to other travel options from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL:
A train is €25 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL costing on average €44.
The fastest way to travel from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL is by train with an average journey time of 2h 6m.
Other travel options to Bloomington, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Alton, IL and Bloomington, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 23m faster (2h 6m by train vs 2h 29m by car) and roughly €6 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€20 vs €25). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:21 PM Alton, IL | 1h53 | 1:14 AM Bloomington, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL by train or bus
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €13 if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 21:19. The fastest train covers the 126 miles (204 km) distance in 1h 49m.
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 126 miles (204 km) |
Average train duration 2h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price €13 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 1h 49m |
First train 4:30 AM |
Last train 9:19 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Alton, IL and Bloomington, IL from €13. 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
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
€13
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
Complete guide to Bloomington, IL
Things to do in Bloomington, IL
Discover the best of Bloomington, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bloomington, IL trip today.
- Recommended
Children's Discovery Museum
Children’s museum with hands-on science, art, and play exhibits in Uptown Normal; ideal for families and interactive learning.
- Recommended
University Galleries of Illinois State University
University museum with rotating contemporary art, student work, and traveling exhibitions in a modern campus gallery.
- Must visit
Constitution Trail
Wide greenway trail favored for walking and biking, linking neighborhoods, schools, and parks across town.
- Recommended
Downtown Bloomington
Lively downtown district with historic buildings, shops, murals, and easy walking access to museums and performance venues.
- Recommended
Uptown Normal
Walkable mixed-use district in Normal with modern plazas, public art, events, and strong rail-and-campus energy.
Horseshoe Sandwich
The iconic Illinois horseshoe is thick toast topped with meat, fries, and cheese sauce. A hearty central Illinois comfort food locals love.
Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A pork tenderloin sandwich features a breaded, fried cutlet larger than the bun. It is a beloved Midwestern diner and tavern staple in the area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Sweet Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob highlights Illinois farm country. In season, sweet local corn is a simple regional favorite at cookouts, fairs, and family meals.
Lucca Grill
Historic casual spot famous for burgers and the original cheese balls. Lively, nostalgic atmosphere and a long-standing local following.
Shannon's Five Star
Beloved local breakfast and lunch cafe known for hearty American classics, pies, and friendly small-town diner charm.
Epiphany Farms Restaurant
Upscale American dining in a restored historic building. Known for steaks, seafood, and polished service in an elegant setting.
United States Dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. Midwest travel. Hotels and dining are usually below big-city prices, while transport often requires a car or rideshare, adding to visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $8-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Some bills include gratuity, so check first.
FAQs: Trains from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Alton, IL to Bloomington, 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 Bloomington, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €13, while the average price is around €20.
The train from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL takes 1h 49m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL leaves at 4:30 AM.
The distance by train from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL is 126 miles (204 km).
The last train from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL leaves at 9:19 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL.
The train station in Alton, IL that goes to Bloomington, IL is Alton Station, Alton, IL, which connects to Uptown Station, Normal, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL is by train, with a cost of around €13.
The train journey from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL offers a pleasant experience with views of Illinois' rolling farmlands and small towns, providing a glimpse into the region's rural landscapes.
A day trip from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL is feasible. The journey duration is 1h 49m and the distance is 126 miles (204 km). Trains run 10 times per day.
In Bloomington, IL, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. The Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts offers theater, music, and dance performances, while the Upper Limits Rock Gym provides indoor climbing challenges for all skill levels. Ewing Cultural Center features beautiful gardens and cultural events. For family fun, Grady's Family Fun Park offers go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games, and Rader Family Farms provides seasonal attractions like a pumpkin patch and corn maze. Notable sights include the McLean County Museum of History, Miller Park Zoo, David Davis Mansion State Historic Site, Constitution Trail for outdoor activities, and the Prairie Aviation Museum with its aviation exhibits.
For a fulfilling visit to Bloomington, IL, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days to explore its key attractions, including the McLean County Museum of History, Miller Park Zoo, and the David Davis Mansion.
Yes, you can take the train from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL.
Since neither Alton, IL nor Bloomington, 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 Bloomington, IL include Joliet, IL, Springfield, IL, Lincoln, IL, Summit, IL, Tinley Park, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alton, IL to Bloomington, 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 Bloomington, IL, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi services or ride-shares can occur, so using licensed transportation providers is recommended. Travelers should also stay aware of their surroundings at night and avoid isolated areas to ensure personal safety.
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 Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL
Most Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL trains use the Alton Station to Uptown Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Alton, IL and Bloomington, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Alton
Arrival train stations in Bloomington
Which Alton, IL station do trains to Bloomington, IL leave from?
Trains from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL leave from Alton Station. The station is 2 miles (4 km) from Alton, IL city centre at 1 Golf Rd, Alton, IL 62002, USA.
Alton Station1 Golf Rd, Alton, IL 62002, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Alton Station from Alton city centre
Alton Station is 4 km from Alton city centre. Check local transport options before travel.
Alton Station train station facilities and services
Alton Station has practical services for this route, including Dining and Accessibility.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Alton Station.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Alton Station.
Most popular train connections from Alton, IL
More options for your journey from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bloomington, IL and Alton, IL
Most popular train connections to Bloomington, IL
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