4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL
Cheapest price
$37
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
2 h 31 m
Average duration
2 h 36 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
199 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Champaign, 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 Champaign, IL will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Of the 3 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Champaign, IL on Mon, May 25, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 25 the direct trains cover the 199 km distance in an average of 2 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 31 m .
On Mon, May 25 the slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.
391 Saluki8:15 AM2h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL10:47 AMChampaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL$371One-way0 transfers- 393 Illini4:05 PM2h31Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL6:36 PMChampaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL$531One-way0 transfers
- 59 City Of New Orleans6:05 PM2h45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:50 PMChampaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL$1421One-way0 transfers
- 393 Illini4:05 PM2h31Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL6:36 PMChampaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL$531One-way0 transfers
- 391 Saluki8:15 AM2h32Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL10:47 AMChampaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL$371One-way0 transfers
- 59 City Of New Orleans6:05 PM2h45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:50 PMChampaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL$1421One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 32m. 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 train costs an average of $13, and a bus costs an average of $24.
Distance: 123 miles (199 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$39 Average price Cheapest | $40 Average price | $28 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 2m Average total duration Fastest 2h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 22m Average total duration 2h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL:
A train is $0.75 (€0.61) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL costing on average $40 (€32).
Other travel options to Champaign, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 52m.
Tickets start at around $39 (€31) compared to roughly $28 (€23) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-10.79 (€-8.73). The journey takes 2h 32m versus 2h 3m 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
Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL trains for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 393 Illini | 4:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h31 | 6:36 PM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 59 City Of New Orleans | 6:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h45 | 8:50 PM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 25 | |||||
| 391 Saluki | 8:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h32 | 10:47 AM Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Champaign, 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.
May 25
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Jun 01
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Jun 07
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€11) 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 4m.
Distance 123 miles (199 km) |
Average train duration 2h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€11) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 4m |
First train 4:10 AM |
Last train 9:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 35 days |
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Champaign, IL from $13 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL
The train connection between Chicago, IL and Champaign, IL is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of both cities. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, making it easy to enjoy the scenic journey in just about 2 hours. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can choose from various schedules that best fit their travel plans. Whether you're heading to Champaign for its renowned university or returning to Chicago's bustling urban life, traveling by train offers comfort and efficiency along with beautiful views of Illinois' landscapes.
Train Connection: Chicago to Champaign
Traveling from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. There are 3 direct connections available each day. Passengers will depart from Union Station, IL and arrive at Champaign-Urbana Station, IL.
Chicago to Champaign Train Connection
The first daily journey departs from Chicago, IL at 1:15 PM, providing travelers with an afternoon option to start their trip. The last train leaves Champaign, IL at 10:05 PM, allowing for a late return after exploring the attractions in this vibrant city.
Train Tickets Price for Chicago to Champaign
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL is $12 (11€). This offers an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities.
Exploring the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: A Cultural and Educational Journey
Welcome to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a prestigious institution founded in 1867 that has played a pivotal role in shaping higher education and research in America. Its significance lies not only in its academic excellence but also as a birthplace for groundbreaking innovations like the first graphical web browser and contributions to space exploration. As you stroll through this vibrant campus, take note of its stunning architecture, including the iconic Altgeld Hall with its impressive clock tower.
Next on our journey is the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, which opened its doors in 1969 and stands as one of America's premier venues for music, theater, and dance. This cultural gem is significant because it fosters creativity by hosting world-class performances while providing students invaluable opportunities to engage with professional artists. The unique design features an acoustically perfect concert hall alongside intimate spaces that enhance every performance experience.
Finally, we arrive at Spurlock Museum—a treasure trove established in 1911 dedicated to showcasing global cultures through art and artifacts from around the world. Its significance stems from promoting understanding across diverse communities while preserving history; you'll find exhibits ranging from ancient Egyptian relics to contemporary Native American art here. What sets Spurlock apart are its interactive displays that invite visitors into immersive experiences—making learning about different cultures both engaging and memorable!
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Champaign, 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 Champaign, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Carts
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- 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.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Big Grove Tavern
- Ko Fusion
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
- I Hotel and Conference Center
- Hilton Garden Inn Champaign/ Urbana
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- The station includes an enclosed waiting area and serves as an intermodal passenger transport center.
- Bus: Several lines available
- Intercity bus services
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL
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Most popular trains to and from Champaign, IL and Chicago, IL
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