- Must visit
Saint Louis Art Museum
Vast art museum in Forest Park with global collections from antiquity to modern works and strong free general admission.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO
Showing times and prices for Jul 22
Cheapest price
$38
Average price
$131
Fastest journey
4 h 11 m
Average duration
10 h 43 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
236 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO will cost around $131 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO without transferring at least once.
8893 AMTRAK · 301 Lincoln Service7:50 AM4h11Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL12:01 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$381One-way1 transfer- 59 City Of New Orleans · 8358 AMTRAK10:55 PM8h35Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL7:30 AMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$701One-way1 transfer
- 390 Saluki · 305 Lincoln Service10:24 AM11h59Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL10:23 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$791One-way1 transfer
- 58 City Of New Orleans · 305 Lincoln Service6:30 AM15h53Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL10:23 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$851One-way1 transfer
- 58 City Of New Orleans · 21 Texas Eagle6:30 AM12h55Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL7:25 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$3801One-way1 transfer
- 8893 AMTRAK · 301 Lincoln Service7:50 AM4h11Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL12:01 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$381One-way1 transfer
- 59 City Of New Orleans · 8358 AMTRAK10:55 PM8h35Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL7:30 AMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$701One-way1 transfer
- 390 Saluki · 305 Lincoln Service10:24 AM11h59Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL10:23 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$791One-way1 transfer
- 58 City Of New Orleans · 21 Texas Eagle6:30 AM12h55Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL7:25 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$3801One-way1 transfer
- 58 City Of New Orleans · 305 Lincoln Service6:30 AM15h53Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL10:23 PMSt. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO$851One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 20m. 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 $24, and a train costs an average of $36.
Distance: 146 miles (236 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$48 Average price | $34 Average price Cheapest | $28 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 29m Average total duration 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO is a bus with an average price of $34 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO:
A bus is $14 (€14) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO costing on average $48 (€48).
The fastest way to travel from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 20m.
Other travel options to St. Louis, MO take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Champaign, IL and St. Louis, MO including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $48 (€48) compared to roughly $28 (€28) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.82 (€-19.82). The journey takes 3h 59m versus 2h 36m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO train times
The table below shows live departures for Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 City Of New Orleans · 305 Lincoln Service | 6:30 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL | 15h53 | 10:23 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 58 City Of New Orleans · 21 Texas Eagle | 6:30 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL | 12h55 | 7:25 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 8893 AMTRAK · 301 Lincoln Service | 7:50 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL | 4h11 | 12:01 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 390 Saluki · 305 Lincoln Service | 10:24 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL | 11h59 | 10:23 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO
USAUSA
Trains from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€36) but you can travel from only $24 (€24) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 146 miles (236 km) distance in 4h 11m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $24 (€24)
Distance 146 miles (236 km) |
Average train duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€36) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 11m |
First train 4:30 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 5 days |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $24 (€24)
Train companies: Amtrak from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Champaign, IL and St. Louis, MO from $24 (€24). 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
4h 11m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€36)
Amtrak frequency
5 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
Complete guide to St. Louis, MO
Things to do in St. Louis, MO
Discover the best of St. Louis, MO — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect St. Louis, MO trip today.
- Recommended
Missouri History Museum
Leading history museum covering St. Louis, Missouri, and national stories through rotating exhibitions in Forest Park.
- Recommended
Saint Louis Science Center
Interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, planetarium, and family-friendly displays near Forest Park.
- Must visit
Gateway Arch National Park Grounds
Lively downtown riverfront district with trails, views of the Arch, public art, and access to major historic sites.
- Must visit
Forest Park
Large urban park with trails, lakes, zoo access, and major museums, ideal for walking between top attractions.
- Recommended
Tower Grove Park
Beloved neighborhood park with formal lily ponds, pavilions, and one of the city's most photographed landscapes.
- Vegetarian
St. Louis-Style Pizza
A thin, cracker-like crust pizza cut into squares and topped with Provel cheese, a St. Louis original loved for its distinct texture and tangy flavor.
- Vegetarian
Toasted Ravioli
Crisp, breaded ravioli said to be born on The Hill, usually served with marinara. It is a signature St. Louis Italian-American appetizer.
- Vegetarian
Gooey Butter Cake
Sticky butter cake with a dense base and gooey sweet top. A longtime St. Louis bakery favorite often enjoyed for breakfast or dessert.
Bulrush
Refined contemporary restaurant with tasting menus and strong national acclaim. Elegant fine dining focused on seasonal Midwestern ingredients.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
Beloved frozen custard stand serving concretes and sundaes since 1929. Casual, nostalgic, and one of the city's iconic dessert stops.
Pappy's Smokehouse
Popular smokehouse known for St. Louis barbecue, especially ribs, brisket, and pork steak, in a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels and dining are reasonable, transit is limited, and attractions often cost less than in larger U.S. tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a mid-range restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts.
FAQs: Trains from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€36), while the average price is around $48 (€48).
The train from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO takes 4h 11m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO is 146 miles (236 km).
The first train from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO leaves at 4:30 AM.
The last train from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO.
There is no direct train service currently available from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO.
The train station in Champaign, IL that goes to St. Louis, MO is Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL, which connects to St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO.
The cheapest way to get from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€24).
The train journey from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO offers views of the Illinois countryside, showcasing flat farmlands and rural landscapes, but it is not typically considered a scenic route compared to those with mountainous or coastal views.
A day trip from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO is not feasible, as the travel duration is 4h 11m. The frequency of train trips is 5 per day, covering a distance of 146 miles (236 km).
Three days are typically sufficient to explore key attractions in St. Louis, including the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Yes, you can take the train from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO.
Since neither Champaign, IL nor St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO include Springfield, IL, Hermann, MO, Washington, MO, Alton, IL, Carlinville, IL.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO, travelers should be cautious in certain neighborhoods with higher crime rates, especially after dark. Common safety concerns include petty theft, pickpocketing, and occasional scams targeting visitors near popular attractions like the Gateway Arch. It’s advisable to stay in well-populated areas, avoid displaying valuables openly, and use reputable transportation services to minimize 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 St. Louis, MO
Most Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO trains use the Champaign-Urbana Station to St. Louis Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Champaign, IL and St. Louis, MO train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Champaign
Arrival train stations in St. Louis
Which Champaign, IL station do trains to St. Louis, MO leave from?
Trains from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO leave from Champaign-Urbana Station. The station is from Champaign, IL city centre at 45 East University Avenue, Champaign, IL 61820, United States.
Champaign-Urbana Station45 East University Avenue, Champaign, IL 61820, United States+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Champaign-Urbana Station from Champaign city centre
Bus50, 6, 100, 9, 3, 30, 1, 2, 5, 70, 7, 20 · 3m · $1 · every ~27 min
Champaign-Urbana Station train station facilities and services
Champaign-Urbana Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Big Grove Tavern, Ko Fusion
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Champaign-Urbana Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Champaign-Urbana Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Champaign-Urbana Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Champaign-Urbana Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Champaign-Urbana Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana, I Hotel and Conference Center, Hilton Garden Inn Champaign/ Urbana.
Which St. Louis, MO station do trains from Champaign, IL arrive at?
Trains from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO most often arrive at St. Louis Station. Some services arrive at Kirkwood Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your St. Louis, MO arrival station.
St. Louis Station430 S 15th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to St. Louis Station from St. Louis city centre
TrainMlb, Mlr · 3m · $3 · every ~14 min
St. Louis Station train station facilities and services
St. Louis Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Landry's Seafood House, The Station Grille
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St. Louis Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at St. Louis Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St. Louis Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at St. Louis Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St. Louis Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, Courtyard St. Louis Downtown West, Drury Inn St. Louis at Union Station.
Most popular train connections from Champaign, IL
More options for your journey from Champaign, IL to St. Louis, MO
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from St. Louis, MO and Champaign, IL
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