- Recommended
University Museum, Southern Illinois University
University museum with rotating art, history, and science exhibitions. A practical stop for learning about the region and campus culture.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
CHF38
Average ticket price on Oct 13
CHF38
Fastest journey on Oct 13
9 h 44 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
9 h 44 m
Trains on Oct 13
2
Distance
478 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL will cost around CHF38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF38.
Fast trains
On Tue, Oct 13, we found 2 trains from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 13 the direct trains cover the 478 km distance in an average of 9 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 44 m .
On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest trains will take 9 h 44 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.
10:05 PM9h44Chicago, IL7:49 AMCarbondale, ILCHF381One-way0 transfers- 9:05 PM9h44Chicago, IL6:49 AMCarbondale, ILCHF381One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 PM9h44Chicago, IL7:49 AMCarbondale, ILCHF381One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 PM9h44Chicago, IL6:49 AMCarbondale, ILCHF381One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF25 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:16, the last at 20:05. The fastest train covers the 297 miles (478 km) distance in 5h 16m.
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 297 miles (478 km) |
Average train duration 5h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF25 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 5h 16m |
First train 1:16 AM |
Last train 8:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 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
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL trains for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 59 City Of New Orleans | 6:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 5h44 | 11:49 PM Carbondale station, Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL from CHF25. 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 Amtrak Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
CHF25
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 Carbondale, IL
Things to do in Carbondale, IL
Discover the best of Carbondale, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carbondale, IL trip today.
- Recommended
Sharp Museum
Campus art museum showing contemporary and historical works in curated exhibitions. Worth visiting for accessible regional and academic art programming.
Glove Factory Gallery
Student-focused gallery presenting changing exhibitions by local and visiting artists. A smaller venue that offers a fresh look at current creative work.
- Recommended
Turley Park
Large community park with a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and open lawns. It is one of Carbondale’s best all-purpose outdoor spaces.
- Recommended
South Illinois Avenue
Downtown main street corridor with shops, events, murals, and easy walking access to local culture. A practical area for exploring the city center.
Touch of Nature Trail
Wooded university nature area with short trails and wildlife viewing. It offers a calm walking break close to campus and central Carbondale.
- Gluten-free
Southern Illinois Smoked Pulled Pork
A Southern Illinois specialty: hickory-smoked pork shoulder, chopped or sliced, prized for slow cooking and tangy regional barbecue sauces.
Fried Catfish
Traditional Midwestern catfish, usually cornmeal-coated and fried. It reflects the region's river foodways and is common at local fish houses and suppers.
- Vegetarian
Corn Fritters
A classic county-fair treat of battered and fried sweet corn kernels. Popular across Southern Illinois as a seasonal snack and side.
Longbranch Cafe and Bakery
Popular local cafe serving coffee, breakfast, and lunch with a cozy, artsy feel and a strong following in central Carbondale.
Quatro's Deep Pan Pizza
Long-running brewpub known for house beers, pizza, burgers, and a lively downtown atmosphere popular with locals and students.
17th Street Barbecue
Casual Southern-style spot known for smoked meats, barbecue plates, and hearty comfort food in an easygoing setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for the US Midwest; hotels can rise on event weekends, but dining and local transport are usually lower than in major US tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $35-60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for drip coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and tipping is optional but appreciated at cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, 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 Carbondale, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF25, while the average price is around CHF57.
The train from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL takes 5h 16m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is 297 miles (478 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 1:16 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 8:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Carbondale, IL is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Carbondale station, Carbondale, IL.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. As the train departs from Chicago, passengers can enjoy views of the bustling cityscape. Further along, the route transitions into the scenic countryside of Illinois, with glimpses of farmland, small towns, and wooded areas, providing a pleasant and varied visual experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Popular day trips by train from Carbondale, IL include Effingham, IL, Mattoon, IL, Centralia, IL.
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 Carbondale, IL, travelers should remain aware of petty theft and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in parking areas near popular venues like Southern Illinois University. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Scams are generally low, but travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodations and verify legitimacy before committing. Staying informed about local news and following standard travel safety practices ensures a secure visit.
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 Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Most Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL trains use the Union Station to Carbondale Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Carbondale
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Carbondale, IL leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · CHF3 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Which Carbondale, IL station do trains from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL arrive at Carbondale Station. Carbondale Station is from Carbondale, IL city centre.
Carbondale Station401 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Carbondale Station from Carbondale city centre
BusSeveral local bus lines available
Carbondale Station train station facilities and services
Carbondale Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Carbondale Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carbondale Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carbondale Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carbondale Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carbondale, IL and Chicago, IL
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