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The cheapest and fastest trains from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$33
Average price
$52
Fastest journey
3 h 51 m
Average duration
8 h 2 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
316 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Effingham Station, Effingham, IL for Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 316 km distance in an average of 8 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 51 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 18 h 35 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.
392 Illini5:54 PM3h51Effingham Station, Effingham, IL9:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$331One-way0 transfers- 58 City Of New Orleans · 392 Illini3:10 AM18h35Effingham Station, Effingham, IL9:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$351One-way1 transfer
- 58 City Of New Orleans3:10 AM4h05Effingham Station, Effingham, IL7:15 AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$591One-way0 transfers
- 58 City Of New Orleans · 390 Saluki3:10 AM9h50Effingham Station, Effingham, IL1:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$601One-way1 transfer
- 390 Saluki9:09 AM3h51Effingham Station, Effingham, IL1:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$731One-way0 transfers
- 390 Saluki9:09 AM3h51Effingham Station, Effingham, IL1:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$731One-way0 transfers
- 392 Illini5:54 PM3h51Effingham Station, Effingham, IL9:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$331One-way0 transfers
- 58 City Of New Orleans3:10 AM4h05Effingham Station, Effingham, IL7:15 AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$591One-way0 transfers
- 58 City Of New Orleans · 390 Saluki3:10 AM9h50Effingham Station, Effingham, IL1:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$601One-way1 transfer
- 58 City Of New Orleans · 392 Illini3:10 AM18h35Effingham Station, Effingham, IL9:45 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$351One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $20, and a flight costs an average of $101.
Distance: 196 miles (316 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$38 Average price Cheapest | $158 Average price | $43 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 26m Average total duration 3h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $38 (€31).
This is compared to other travel options from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL:
A train is $120 (€98) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL costing on average $158 (€129).
The fastest way to travel from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 56m.
Bus takes on average 6h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Effingham Station, Effingham, IL and Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, 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
Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 City Of New Orleans | 3:10 AM Effingham Station, Effingham, IL | 4h05 | 7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 58 City Of New Orleans · 392 Illini | 3:10 AM Effingham Station, Effingham, IL | 18h35 | 9:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 392 Illini | 5:54 PM Effingham Station, Effingham, IL | 3h51 | 9:45 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, 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.
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Jun 20
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:10, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 196 miles (316 km) distance in 3h 51m.
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 196 miles (316 km) |
Average train duration 3h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 51m |
First train 8:10 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Effingham Station, Effingham, IL and Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL from $20 (€16). 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 51m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
Amtrak frequency
5 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
Complete guide to Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
A major natural history museum with renowned dinosaur, anthropology, and science collections, including SUE the T. rex.
- Must visit
Shedd Aquarium
A world-famous aquarium on Museum Campus with extensive marine life exhibits and strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
A central downtown park known for public art, events, gardens, and easy access to several of Chicago’s best-known sights.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Chicago’s most famous avenue for architecture, shopping, and skyline views, stretching along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A highly popular waterfront promenade with river views, bridges, architecture highlights, and an easy downtown walking route.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickles, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic Chicago street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is one of Chicago's signature sandwiches.
Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago's most famous dishes.
Girl & The Goat
Celebrated West Loop restaurant serving bold shared plates in a lively modern space, popular for a memorable Chicago meal.
Lou Mitchell's
Historic diner near Union Station known for hearty breakfasts, classic American comfort food, and old-school Chicago atmosphere.
The Berghoff Restaurant
Long-running German-American restaurant in the Loop, known for beer, schnitzel, sausages, and a classic downtown dining room.
United States Dollar
Food and drinks near the station are moderate for a major US city; fast food is affordable, while sit-down dining costs more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for regular coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; round up or tip 10-15% for taxis; small tips are appreciated for hotel staff.
Ventra
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.50
- Day pass
- USD 5.00
To the city center
Chicago Union Station -> The Loop, Chicago
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay CTA trains and buses with a Ventra card, contactless bank card, or mobile wallet; onboard cash is accepted on buses but no change is given.
- A CTA 1-Day pass is typically sold via Ventra, while Metra tickets from Union Station are separate and not included in CTA fares.
FAQs: Trains from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, 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 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $20 (€16), while the average price is around $38 (€31).
The train from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL takes 3h 51m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL is 196 miles (316 km).
The first train from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL leaves at 8:10 AM.
The last train from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Effingham Station, IL to Chicago Union Station, IL offers a scenic experience with views of Illinois' rural landscapes, including farmlands, small towns, and glimpses of the Illinois River, providing a picturesque ride through the heart of the Midwest.
A day trip from Effingham Station, IL to Chicago Union Station, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 51m. However, there are 4 train trips available per day covering a distance of 196 miles (316 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
Since neither Effingham Station, Effingham, IL nor Chicago Union Station, Chicago, 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 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, Joliet, IL, Sturtevant, WI, Racine, WI, New Buffalo, MI.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, 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.
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 Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
Most Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL trains use the Effingham Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Effingham Station, Effingham, IL and Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Effingham
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Effingham Station401 W Nat'l Ave, Effingham, IL 62401, USA+1 800-872-7245
Effingham Station train station facilities and services
Effingham Station has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Effingham Station.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
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 options for your journey from Effingham Station, Effingham, IL to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL and Effingham Station, Effingham, IL
Most popular train connections to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
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