The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Cheapest price
$54
Average price
$221
Fastest journey
1 h 58 m
Average duration
2 h 7 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
189 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, 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 Bloomington, IL will cost around $221 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.
Of the 3 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Bloomington, IL on Tue, Nov 25, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Nov 25 the direct trains cover the 189 km distance in an average of 2 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 58 m .
On Tue, Nov 25 the slowest trains will take 2 h 12 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.
301 Lincoln Service
421 Texas Eagle
21 Texas Eagle
301 Lincoln Service
421 Texas Eagle
21 Texas EagleTravel Information
Compare train and bus for Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 7m. 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 €30, and a train costs an average of €15.
Distance: 117 miles (189 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€54 Average price | €42 Average price Cheapest |
2h 37m Average total duration Fastest 2h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL trains for today, Monday, November 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
301 Lincoln Service | 1:15 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1h58 | 3:13 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 3:50 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h06 | 5:56 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
21 Texas Eagle | 7:52 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h12 | 10:04 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
305 Lincoln Service | 11:20 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h05 | 1:25 AM Uptown Station, Normal, 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 Bloomington, 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.
Nov 25
Nov 26
Nov 27
Nov 28
Nov 29
Nov 30
Dec 01
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:06, the last at 20:17. The fastest train covers the 117 miles (189 km) distance in 1h 58m.
Distance 117 miles (189 km) |
Average train duration 2h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 07:06 |
Last train 20:17 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL from $18 (€15). 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 Bloomington, IL
The train connection between Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the heart of Illinois. 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 enjoy all that both cities have to offer.
Train Connection: Chicago to Bloomington
The train connection from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes. There are 4 connections per day available for this route, all of which are direct services with no transfers required.
Chicago to Bloomington Train Connection
The first daily train journey departs from Chicago, IL at 12:15 PM, providing travelers with an early afternoon option to start their trip. The last departure for the day leaves Bloomington, IL at 11:20 PM, allowing passengers a late-night return after exploring the attractions in both cities.
Train Tickets Price for Chicago to Bloomington
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL is $13 (11.7€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $24 (21.6€), making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in Illinois.
Exploring Bloomington-Normal: A Journey Through History and Nature
Welcome to Illinois State University, the oldest public university in Illinois, founded in 1857. Its significance lies not only in its rich academic heritage but also as a pioneer of teacher education and research that has shaped educational practices across the nation. As you stroll through its picturesque campus, take note of the stunning architecture and vibrant student life that reflect both tradition and innovation.
Next on our tour is the David Davis Mansion, an exquisite example of Victorian architecture built for Judge David Davis in 1872. This historic site holds great significance as it showcases the lifestyle of prominent figures during America's Gilded Age while serving as a testament to local history and culture. Be sure to admire its beautifully preserved interiors filled with original furnishings that transport you back to a time when elegance reigned supreme.
Finally, we arrive at Miller Park Zoo, which opened over a century ago and has become an essential part of Bloomington-Normal's community fabric. The zoo’s unique features include diverse animal exhibits from around the world along with engaging conservation programs aimed at educating visitors about wildlife preservation efforts. Don’t miss your chance to interact with some friendly animals or participate in one-of-a-kind experiences designed for all ages!
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, 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 Bloomington, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
- 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
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
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