Chicago, IL to Alton, IL train with Amtrak

Wed, Sep 02
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 02

Cheapest price on Sep 02

$40

Average ticket price on Sep 02

$41

Fastest journey on Sep 02

4 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 02

4 h 14 m

Trains on Sep 02

3

Distance

393 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Alton, 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 Alton, IL will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

On Wed, Sep 02, we found 3 trains from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL, including 3 direct services.

On Wed, Sep 02 the direct trains cover the 393 km distance in an average of 4 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 10 m .

On Wed, Sep 02 the slowest trains will take 4 h 16 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.

  • Amtrak
    11:20 PM4h16
    Chicago, IL
    3:36 AMAlton, IL
    $401One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    12:10 AM4h10
    Chicago, IL
    4:20 AMAlton, IL
    $411One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    10:20 PM4h16
    Chicago, IL
    2:36 AMAlton, IL
    $421One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Alton, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $59 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 27m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $59, while a flight costs an average of $289.

Distance: 244 miles (393 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$184

Average price

$289

Average price

$59

Average price

Cheapest

$60

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 40m

Average total duration

4h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 27m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

6h 38m

Average total duration

6h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 13m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.2 - 2.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

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 Chicago, IL to Alton, IL is a bus with an average price of $59 (€48).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL:

A bus is $125 (€101) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL costing on average $184 (€149).

A bus is $230 (€186) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL costing on average $289 (€234).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 27m.

Other travel options to Alton, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 10m.

Bus takes on average 6h 8m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Alton, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 3m sooner (4h 10m by train vs 4h 13m by car). Tickets start at around $184 (€149) compared to roughly $60 (€49) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Alton, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Alton, IL trains for today, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner9:50 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h07
1:57 PM Alton Station, Alton, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak21 Texas Eagle2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h20
6:30 PM Alton Station, Alton, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak421 Texas Eagle2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h20
6:30 PM Alton Station, Alton, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak305 Lincoln Service5:20 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h16
9:36 PM Alton Station, Alton, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak307 Lincoln Service7:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h10
11:20 PM Alton Station, Alton, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak12:10 AM Chicago, IL
4h10
4:20 AM Alton, IL0 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 Alton, IL by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight 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.

Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€49) but you can travel from only $53 (€43) by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 244 miles (393 km) distance in 3h 57m.

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 $53 (€43)
Distance
244 miles (393 km)
Average train duration
4h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$60 (€49)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
3h 57m
First train
4:30 AM
Last train
11:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
63 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 $53 (€43)

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Alton, IL from $53 (€43). 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
3h 57m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$60 (€49)
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 Chicago, IL to Alton, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Alton, 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 Alton, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€49), while the average price is around $184 (€149).
The train from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL takes 3h 57m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL is 244 miles (393 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL leaves at 4:30 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Alton, IL is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Alton Station, Alton, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $53 (€43).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Travelers can enjoy views of the Chicago skyline, farmland, small towns, and river landscapes along the route, providing a pleasant and varied backdrop.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 57m. The distance is 244 miles (393 km), with a train frequency of 5 per day.
To fully experience Alton, IL, including its historic sites, scenic riverfront, and local attractions, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Alton, IL 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 Alton, IL include Springfield, IL, St. Louis, MO.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL 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 Alton, IL, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in less populated areas and parking lots. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night and be aware of local traffic patterns to stay safe. While scams are not widespread, travelers should remain vigilant against common scams like overcharging or misleading offers when booking transportation or local tours. Staying informed about neighborhood safety and using reputable services helps ensure 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 Alton, IL

Most Chicago, IL to Alton, IL trains use the Union Station to Alton Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Alton, 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 Alton

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Alton, IL leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Alton, 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+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · $4 · 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.

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Alton, IL

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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