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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $22, and a bus costs an average of $43.
Distance: 119 miles (193 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$22 Average price Cheapest | $43 Average price |
2h 42m Average total duration Fastest 2h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 25m Average total duration 4h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL is a train with an average price of $22 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL:
A train is $21 (€17) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL costing on average $43 (€34).
The fastest way to travel from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL is by train with an average journey time of 2h 12m.
Other travel options to Normal, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Plaines, IL and Normal, IL including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL run on average 14 times per day, taking around 2h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€17) if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:10, the last at 01:10. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (193 km) distance in 2h 6m.
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 119 miles (193 km) |
Average train duration 2h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€17) |
Trains per day 14 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 2h 6m |
First train 1:10 AM |
Last train 1:10 AM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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, Metra from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL trainsAmtrak, Metra trains will get you between Des Plaines, IL and Normal, IL from $22 (€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
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€17)
Amtrak frequency
14 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
Metra
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$98 (€78)
Metra frequency
4 a day
FAQs: Trains from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, 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 Normal, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€17), while the average price is around $22 (€17).
The train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL takes 2h 6m and runs 14 per day.
The first train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL leaves at 1:10 AM.
The distance by train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL is 119 miles (193 km).
The last train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL leaves at 1:10 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL.
The train station in Des Plaines, IL that goes to Normal, IL is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Uptown Station, Normal, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL is by train, with a cost of around $22 (€17).
The train journey from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of suburban landscapes, farmland, and small towns, making it a pleasant but not particularly renowned scenic route.
A day trip from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL is not feasible since the travel duration is 2h 6m. However, there are 13 train trips available per day. The distance is 119 miles (193 km).
To explore key attractions in Normal, IL, such as the Children's Discovery Museum and Illinois State University's campus, a stay of 2-3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL.
Since neither Des Plaines, IL nor Normal, 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 Normal, IL include Joliet, IL, Springfield, IL, Summit, IL, Alton, IL, Dwight, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, 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 Normal, IL, travelers should be cautious of typical urban safety concerns such as petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or parking areas. It's advisable to stay aware of surroundings and keep valuables secure. While no specific scams are widely reported, travelers should be cautious of common scams like overcharging or misleading offers when using local transportation or services. Using official ticket vendors and authorized transportation providers helps ensure a safe experience.
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 Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL
Des Plaines
Normal
Uptown Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available adjacent to the station with multiple entry points.
Dining
- Medici
- The Rock Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- Free for passengers
Hotel
- Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal
- Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
- Hampton Inn & Suites Bloomington-Normal
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: access to platforms and bus connections
Public transit options for Uptown Station
- Bus: Connect Transit
- Intercity buses available
More options for your journey from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL
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