Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL train with Amtrak

Fri, May 08
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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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 Pontiac, IL

Showing times and prices for May 09

Cheapest price

$19

Average price

$19

Fastest journey

1 h 28 m

Average duration

1 h 31 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

135 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, 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 Pontiac, IL will cost around $19 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Pontiac, IL on Sat, May 09, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, May 09 the direct trains cover the 135 km distance in an average of 1 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 28 m .

On Sat, May 09 the slowest trains will take 1 h 33 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
    1:10 AM1h28
    Chicago, IL
    2:38 AMPontiac, IL
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    3:50 PM1h33
    Chicago, IL
    5:23 PMPontiac, IL
    $201One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $11.

Distance: 83 miles (135 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$35

Average price

Cheapest

$20

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 32m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL is a train with an average price of $35 (€28).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL is by train with an average journey time of 1h 34m.

Other travel options to Pontiac, IL take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 38m.

Yes, you can take a train between Chicago, IL and Pontiac, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, 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 $35 (€28) compared to roughly $20 (€16) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.73 (€-11.77). The journey takes 1h 34m versus 1h 32m 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 Pontiac, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL trains for today, Thursday, May 7. 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
1h33
11:23 AM Pontiac Station, Pontiac, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak21 Texas Eagle2:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
1h38
3:48 PM Pontiac Station, Pontiac, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak305 Lincoln Service5:20 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
1h35
6:55 PM Pontiac Station, Pontiac, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak307 Lincoln Service7:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
1h28
8:38 PM Pontiac Station, Pontiac, IL0 transfersDirect
Friday, May 8
amtrak1:10 AM Chicago, IL
1h28
2:38 AM Pontiac, IL0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL by train

Compare train 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.

Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13
Thu
May 14

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:31, the last at 20:46. The fastest train covers the 83 miles (135 km) distance in 1h 28m.

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
83 miles (135 km)
Average train duration
1h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
$11 (€9)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 28m
First train
7:31 AM
Last train
8:46 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
3 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 Pontiac, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Pontiac, IL from $11 (€9). 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
1h 28m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Amtrak frequency
3 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

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $35 (€28).
The train from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL takes 1h 28m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL is 83 miles (135 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL leaves at 7:31 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL leaves at 8:46 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Pontiac, IL is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Pontiac Station, Pontiac, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL is by train, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL offers a pleasant experience with views of the Illinois countryside, including rolling fields and small towns, but is not typically noted for dramatic scenic views.
Yes, a day trip from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 28m and a distance of 83 miles (135 km). Trains run 4 times per day.
To fully enjoy Pontiac, IL, including visiting the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum, exploring the Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum, and experiencing the local art and dining scene, a stay of 1 to 2 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, IL.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Pontiac, 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 Pontiac, IL include Bloomington, IL, Springfield, IL, Normal, IL, Joliet, IL, Summit, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Pontiac, 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 Pontiac, IL, travelers should be aware of typical small-town safety concerns such as petty theft and occasional scams targeting visitors, including overcharging or misleading offers at local businesses. It's advisable to stay alert in less busy areas after dark and secure personal belongings. Using official transportation services and verifying ticket sources helps avoid scams related to travel purchases.
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 Pontiac, IL

Chicago
Pontiac
The major train station for departures in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Chicago to Pontiac.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • 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.
Dining
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
  • Hall 2: Metra services
  • Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line

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

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