Chicago › Charleston
Wed, Jul 15, 1 adult
Wed, Jul 15
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Wed, Jul 15
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The cheapest and fastest trainsfrom Chicago, IL to Charleston, ILShowing times and prices for Jul 14

Cheapest price

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Average price

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Fastest journey

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Average duration

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Trains per day

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Distance

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Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL train with Amtrak

Travel Information

Compare train and flight for Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $21, and a flight costs an average of $150.

Distance: 164 miles (265 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$198

Average price

$37

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 50m

Average total duration

3h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 6m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 6m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

2h 50m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL is a train with an average price of $31 (€26).

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

A train is $167 (€137) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL costing on average $198 (€163).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 6m.

Other travel options to Charleston, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Charleston, IL including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.

Direct services run with Amtrak.

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 Charleston, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak1:15 PM Chicago, IL
3h17
4:32 PM Charleston, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2:15 PM Chicago, IL
3h17
5:32 PM Charleston, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak9:05 PM Chicago, IL
3h18
12:23 AM Charleston, 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 Charleston, IL by train or flight

Compare 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
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:23, the last at 20:05. The fastest train covers the 164 miles (265 km) distance in 3h 17m.

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
164 miles (265 km)
Average train duration
3h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$21 (€17)
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
3h 17m
First train
3:23 AM
Last train
8:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
2 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

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Charleston, IL from $21 (€17). 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 Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Amtrak frequency
4 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
Learn more about Amtrak

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $31 (€26).
The train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL takes 3h 17m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL is 164 miles (265 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL leaves at 3:23 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL leaves at 8:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Charleston, IL is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Mattoon Amtrak Station, Mattoon, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL is by train, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL offers a view of the Midwest's flat landscapes, farmland, and small towns, which some may find charming, though it lacks dramatic scenery.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 17m. Trains run 4 times per day.
To fully experience Charleston, IL, plan for a 2-3 day visit to explore local attractions such as the Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, Eastern Illinois University, and the nearby Fox Ridge State Park.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, IL.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Charleston, 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, 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 Charleston, IL, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as petty theft and occasional scams targeting visitors, including overcharging or misleading offers at local businesses. It is advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night, secure personal belongings, and use reputable transportation services to avoid common scams.
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 Charleston, IL

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

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

Trains from Chicago, IL to Charleston, 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 about Union Station

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

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

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