- Recommended
University Museum, Southern Illinois University
University museum with rotating art, history, and science exhibitions. A practical stop for learning about the region and campus culture.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$33
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$37
Fastest journey on Sep 19
8 h 34 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
12 h 28 m
Trains on Sep 19
4
Distance
395 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 4 trains from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 395 km distance in an average of 12 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 34 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 16 h 22 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.
11:15 PM8h34Kankakee, IL7:49 AMCarbondale, IL$331One-way0 transfers- 10:15 PM8h34Kankakee, IL6:49 AMCarbondale, IL$371One-way0 transfers
- 3:27 PM16h22Kankakee, IL7:49 AMCarbondale, IL$381One-way0 transfers
- 2:27 PM16h22Kankakee, IL6:49 AMCarbondale, IL$411One-way0 transfers
- 11:15 PM8h34Kankakee, IL7:49 AMCarbondale, IL$331One-way0 transfers
- 10:15 PM8h34Kankakee, IL6:49 AMCarbondale, IL$371One-way0 transfers
- 3:27 PM16h22Kankakee, IL7:49 AMCarbondale, IL$381One-way0 transfers
- 2:27 PM16h22Kankakee, IL6:49 AMCarbondale, IL$411One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $76 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $76, while a train costs an average of $76.
Distance: 245 miles (395 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$76 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 4h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL is a bus with an average price of $76 (€62).
This is compared to other travel options from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL:
A bus is $0.54 (€0.44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL costing on average $76 (€62).
The fastest way to travel from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL is by train with an average journey time of 4h 13m.
Other travel options to Carbondale, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 8m.
Yes, you can take a train between Kankakee, IL and Carbondale, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, 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 $76 (€62) compared to roughly $56 (€46) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-20.02 (€-16.38). The journey takes 4h 13m versus 3h 57m 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
Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:27 PM Kankakee, IL | 16h22 | 6:49 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:27 PM Kankakee, IL | 16h22 | 7:49 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:16, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 245 miles (395 km) distance in 3h 58m.
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 245 miles (395 km) |
Average train duration 4h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 58m |
First train 1:16 AM |
Last train 9:23 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 56 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 Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Kankakee, IL and Carbondale, IL from $50 (€41). 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 Amtrak Duration
3h 58m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$50 (€41)
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 Carbondale, IL
Things to do in Carbondale, IL
Discover the best of Carbondale, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carbondale, IL trip today.
- Recommended
Sharp Museum
Campus art museum showing contemporary and historical works in curated exhibitions. Worth visiting for accessible regional and academic art programming.
Glove Factory Gallery
Student-focused gallery presenting changing exhibitions by local and visiting artists. A smaller venue that offers a fresh look at current creative work.
- Recommended
Turley Park
Large community park with a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and open lawns. It is one of Carbondale’s best all-purpose outdoor spaces.
- Recommended
South Illinois Avenue
Downtown main street corridor with shops, events, murals, and easy walking access to local culture. A practical area for exploring the city center.
Touch of Nature Trail
Wooded university nature area with short trails and wildlife viewing. It offers a calm walking break close to campus and central Carbondale.
FAQs: Trains from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, 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 Carbondale, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $76 (€62).
The train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL takes 3h 58m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 1:16 AM.
The distance by train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL is 245 miles (395 km).
The last train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL.
The train station in Kankakee, IL that goes to Carbondale, IL is Kankakee Amtrak, Kankakee, IL, which connects to Carbondale station, Carbondale, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL is by train, with a cost of around $50 (€41).
The train journey from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL showcases scenic views of rural landscapes, small towns, and parts of the Shawnee National Forest, offering a pleasant travel experience through southern Illinois.
A day trip from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL is not feasible as the one-way travel time is 3h 58m. Trains run 3 times per day for this 245 miles (395 km) journey.
For a fulfilling visit to Carbondale, IL, two to three days are usually sufficient to explore local attractions such as the Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois University campus, and nearby wineries.
Yes, you can take the train from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Since neither Kankakee, IL nor Carbondale, 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 Carbondale, IL include Effingham, IL, Mattoon, IL, Centralia, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, 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 Carbondale, IL, travelers should remain aware of petty theft and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in parking areas near popular venues like Southern Illinois University. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Scams are generally low, but travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodations and verify legitimacy before committing. Staying informed about local news and following standard travel safety practices ensures a secure visit.
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 Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL
Most Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL trains use the Kankakee Amtrak to Carbondale Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Kankakee, IL and Carbondale, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Kankakee
Arrival train stations in Carbondale
Which Kankakee, IL station do trains to Carbondale, IL leave from?
Trains from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL leave from Kankakee Amtrak. The station is from Kankakee, IL city centre at 199 S E Ave, Kankakee, IL 60901, USA.
Kankakee Amtrak199 S E Ave, Kankakee, IL 60901, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Kankakee Amtrak from Kankakee city centre
Bus4 · 1m · $1 · every ~3 min
Kankakee Amtrak train station facilities and services
Kankakee Amtrak has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kankakee Amtrak.
Which Carbondale, IL station do trains from Kankakee, IL arrive at?
Trains from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL arrive at Carbondale Station. Carbondale Station is from Carbondale, IL city centre.
Carbondale Station401 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Carbondale Station from Carbondale city centre
BusSeveral local bus lines available
Carbondale Station train station facilities and services
Carbondale Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Carbondale Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carbondale Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carbondale Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carbondale Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Most popular train connections from Kankakee, IL
More options for your journey from Kankakee, IL to Carbondale, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carbondale, IL and Kankakee, IL
Most popular train connections to Carbondale, IL
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