4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Cheapest price
$42
Average price
$116
Fastest journey
1 h 58 m
Average duration
2 h 5 m
Trains per day
4
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 $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Of the 4 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Bloomington, IL on Mon, May 25, 4 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 189 km distance in an average of 2 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 58 m .
On Mon, May 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 Service7:15 AM1h58Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:13 AMUptown Station, Normal, IL$421One-way0 transfers- 305 Lincoln Service5:20 PM2h05Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:25 PMUptown Station, Normal, IL$571One-way0 transfers
- 307 Lincoln Service7:10 PM2h06Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:16 PMUptown Station, Normal, IL$571One-way0 transfers
- 21 Texas Eagle2:10 PM2h12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL4:22 PMUptown Station, Normal, IL$3071One-way0 transfers
- 301 Lincoln Service7:15 AM1h58Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:13 AMUptown Station, Normal, IL$421One-way0 transfers
- 305 Lincoln Service5:20 PM2h05Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL7:25 PMUptown Station, Normal, IL$571One-way0 transfers
- 307 Lincoln Service7:10 PM2h06Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:16 PMUptown Station, Normal, IL$571One-way0 transfers
- 21 Texas Eagle2:10 PM2h12Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL4:22 PMUptown Station, Normal, IL$3071One-way0 transfers
Travel 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 train with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 6m. 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 $14, and a bus costs an average of $36.
Distance: 117 miles (189 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$42 Average price Cheapest | $53 Average price | $28 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 3m Average total duration 4h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 10m 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 Bloomington, IL:
A train is $12 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL costing on average $53 (€43).
Other travel options to Bloomington, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 33m.
You'll arrive about 4m sooner (2h 6m by train vs 2h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $42 (€34) compared to roughly $28 (€23) 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
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 Bloomington, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Bloomington, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Texas Eagle | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h12 | 4:22 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 421 Texas Eagle | 2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h12 | 4:22 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 305 Lincoln Service | 5:20 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h05 | 7:25 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 307 Lincoln Service | 7:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h06 | 9:16 PM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 25 | |||||
| 301 Lincoln Service | 7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1h58 | 9:13 AM Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
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.
May 24
May 25
May 26
May 27
May 28
May 29
May 30
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
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) if you book in advance.
There are 5 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 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 (€11) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 7:06 AM |
Last train 8:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 days |
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL from $14 (€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 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
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
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bloomington, IL and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Bloomington, IL
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