Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Thu, Nov 27
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Nov 27

Cheapest price

$31

Average price

$73

Fastest journey

2 h 36 m

Average duration

3 h 2 m

Trains per day

4

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 $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Champaign, IL for Chicago, IL on Thu, Nov 27, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Nov 27 the direct trains cover the 199 km distance in an average of 3 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 36 m .

On Thu, Nov 27 the slowest trains will take 3 h 50 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.

Amtrak392 Illini
07:08PM2h37
Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
09:45PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$311One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak390 Saluki
10:24AM2h36
Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
01:00PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$451One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak8893 AMTRAK · 302 Lincoln Service
07:50AM3h50
Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
11:40AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$761One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak58 City Of New Orleans
06:10AM3h05
Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
09:15AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$1411One-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 bus with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 42m. 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 €14.

Distance: 123 miles (199 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€44

Average price

€36

Average price

Cheapest

3h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 41m

Average total duration

3h 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

Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL trains for tomorrow, Thursday, November 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:16 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak392 Illini1:08 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
2h37
3:45 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak58 City Of New Orleans12:10 PM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
3h05
3:15 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak8893 AMTRAK · 302 Lincoln Service1:50 PM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
3h50
5:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak390 Saluki4:24 PM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
2h36
7:00 PM 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.

Thu
Nov 27
Fri
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03

Why should you book Champaign to Chicago trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Champaign 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Champaign 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 bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Champaign to Chicago.

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
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) 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 36m.

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 42m
Cheapest ticket price
$17 (€14)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 36m
First train
04:10
Last train
21:05
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 $17 (€14). 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
$20 (€16)
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
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.
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.
Train ticket prices from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $17 (€14), while the average price is around $54 (€44).
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.
The cheapest way to get from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The distance by train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL is 123 miles (199 km).
The train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL takes 2h 36m and runs 3 per day.
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 first train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:10 AM.
A day trip from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL is not feasible due to the travel duration of 2h 36m. There are 3 train trips available per day.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL.
There is no high speed train available from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL.
The last train from Champaign, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:05 PM.
Yes, you can take the train 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.

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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