Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL train with Amtrak

Mon, Jun 22
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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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Travel Information

Compare bus for Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL

Omio recommends booking the bus 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 bus with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, and a bus costs an average of $61.

Distance: 119 miles (193 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Driving

$61

Average price

Cheapest

$28

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 0m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL is a bus with an average price of $61 (€50).
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 3h 6m.

Yes, you can take a bus between Des Plaines, IL and Normal, 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.

Compare prices and tickets Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL by bus

Compare 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.

Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Journey information

Overview: Train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL

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Icon of train

Take a train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL and enjoy the approximately 119 miles (193 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

There are 6 trains per day.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $61 (€50)
Distance
119 miles (193 km)
Average train duration
2h 12m
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
6
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $61 (€50)

Train companies: Amtrak from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Des Plaines, IL and Normal, IL from $61 (€50). 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
$21 (€17)
Amtrak frequency
9 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 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.

FAQs
The distance by train from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL is 119 miles (193 km).
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 6 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 bus, with a cost of around $61 (€50).
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.
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

Most Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL trains use the Glenview Station to Uptown Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Des Plaines, IL and Normal, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Des Plaines
Arrival train stations in Normal

Which Normal, IL station do trains from Des Plaines, IL arrive at?

Trains from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL arrive at Uptown Station. Uptown Station is 0 miles (1 km) from Normal, IL city centre.
Uptown Station11 Uptown Circle, Normal, IL 61761, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Uptown Station from Normal city centre

BusYw · 3m · $1 · every ~3 min

Uptown Station train station facilities and services

Uptown Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Medici, The Rock Restaurant

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Uptown Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Uptown Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Uptown Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Uptown Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Uptown Station: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal, Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, Hampton Inn & Suites Bloomington-Normal.

More options for your journey from Des Plaines, IL to Normal, IL

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

Tickets and more information for trains to Normal, IL
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Normal, ILDes Plaines, IL to Normal, IL train

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