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Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Sat, Jan 17
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jan 19

Cheapest price

$23

Average price

$35

Fastest journey

2 h 19 m

Average duration

2 h 27 m

Trains per day

6

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 $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Bloomington, IL for Chicago, IL on Mon, Jan 19, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jan 19 the direct trains cover the 189 km distance in an average of 2 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 19 m .

On Mon, Jan 19 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.

Amtrak306 Lincoln Service
08:17PM2h26
Uptown Station, Normal, IL
10:43PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$231One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak302 Lincoln Service
09:16AM2h24
Uptown Station, Normal, IL
11:40AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$231One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak300 Lincoln Service
07:06AM2h19
Uptown Station, Normal, IL
09:25AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$231One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
05:35PM2h25
Uptown Station, Normal, IL
08:00PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$421One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak22 Texas Eagle
11:08AM2h41
Uptown Station, Normal, IL
01:49PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$421One-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 bus with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 28m. 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 bus costs an average of €22, and a train costs an average of €12.

Distance: 117 miles (189 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€45

Average price

€37

Average price

Cheapest

2h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 41m

Average total duration

5h 11m

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, Sunday, January 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:58 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak300 Lincoln Service1:06 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h19
3:25 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak302 Lincoln Service3:16 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h24
5:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak22 Texas Eagle5:08 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h41
7:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner11:35 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL
2h25
2:00 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 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.

Mon
Jan 19
Tue
Jan 20
Wed
Jan 21
Thu
Jan 22
Fri
Jan 23
Sat
Jan 24
Sun
Jan 25

Why should you book Bloomington to Chicago trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Bloomington to Chicago. Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bloomington to Chicago.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Amtrak tickets can only be bought on Omio or Amtrak's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Amtrak tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bloomington to Chicago.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL start from as low as $15 (€12) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $56 (€45) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 4 daily trains from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL with 4 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 2h 19m but the average duration is 2h 28m
Train Operators
  • Travel from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL with Amtrak
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Amtrak.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from Uptown Station, Normal, IL and arrive in Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
  • First train typically departs at 07:06 AM and the last at 08:17 PM
Distance
117 miles (189 km)
Average train duration
2h 28m
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
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 $56 (€45).
The train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL takes 2h 19m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is 117 miles (189 km).
The first train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 7:06 AM.
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.

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Chicago, ILBloomington, IL to Chicago, IL train

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