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Indiana University’s major art museum with global collections, notable architecture, and free public galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$23
Fastest journey
1 h 49 m
Average duration
1 h 49 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
204 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL will cost around $23 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Alton, IL for Bloomington, IL on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 204 km distance in an average of 1 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 49 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 1 h 49 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.
10:14 AM1h49Alton, IL12:03 PMBloomington, IL$231One-way0 transfers
- 10:14 AM1h49Alton, IL12:03 PMBloomington, IL$231One-way0 transfers
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 $15. 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 $15, and a bus costs an average of $44.
Distance: 126 miles (204 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $54 Average price | $31 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 $24 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL:
A train is $30 (€25) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL costing on average $54 (€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 $7 (€6) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($24 (€20) vs $31 (€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.
Compare prices and tickets Alton, IL to Bloomington, 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.
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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 $15 (€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 $15 (€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 $15 (€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
$15 (€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
Things to do in Bloomington
Discover the best of Bloomington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bloomington trip today.
- Recommended
Monroe County History Center
Local history museum covering Bloomington and Monroe County through exhibits on community life, industry, and culture.
- Recommended
Mathers Museum Of World Cultures
Indiana University museum focused on world cultures, material culture, and changing academic exhibitions.
- Must visit
Kirkwood Avenue
Bloomington’s best-known downtown street, lined with shops, venues, and a lively college-town atmosphere.
- Must visit
Courthouse Square
Walkable downtown core centered on the courthouse, popular for events, people-watching, and historic character.
- Must visit
Indiana University Bloomington Campus
Scenic limestone campus with memorable quads, gates, and paths that make it a highlight of the city.
Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A Hoosier classic: a pounded, breaded pork cutlet fried crisp and served on a bun, often comically larger than the bread.
- Vegetarian
Sugar Cream Pie
Indiana's state pie, made with a rich custard-style filling of cream, sugar, and vanilla in a flaky crust.
Biscuits And Sausage Gravy
A hearty Midwestern breakfast staple with soft biscuits covered in peppery sausage gravy, common in diners around southern Indiana.
Janko's Little Zagreb
A well-known old-school steakhouse famed for large steaks, red-sauce dishes, and a celebratory, traditional dining room.
Upland Brewing Co.
A long-running Bloomington brewery and restaurant known for Indiana craft beer, pub fare, and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Nick's English Hut
An iconic Bloomington institution serving burgers, sandwiches, and classic pub food in a historic college-town atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Generally moderate for U.S. travelers. Casual dining and coffee are affordable, while hotels and fine dining can be pricier during peak university or event dates.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 18-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50-90+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 15-20% for delivery; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; round up or tip 10-15% for taxis; a few dollars for hotel staff.
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 $15 (€13), while the average price is around $24 (€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 $15 (€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
Alton
Bloomington
Alton Station
Amenities at train station
DiningAccessibility
Most popular train connections from Alton, IL
More options for your journey from Alton, IL to Bloomington, IL
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Most popular trains to and from Bloomington, IL and Alton, IL
Most popular train connections to Bloomington, IL
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