- 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.
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$173
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$173
Fastest journey on Sep 20
9 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
9 h 25 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
505 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rockford, 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 Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL will cost around $173 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $173.
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 505 km distance in an average of 9 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 25 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 9 h 25 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.


The table below shows live departures for Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 4:50 PM Rockford, IL | 9h45 | 2:35 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:50 PM Rockford, IL | 9h45 | 3:35 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
![]() | 9:20 AM Rockford, IL | 9h25 | 6:45 PM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Take a train from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL and enjoy the approximately 313 miles (505 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 03:16, the last at 15:50.
Distance 313 miles (505 km) |
First train 3:16 AM |
Last train 3:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 5 days |
Discover the best of Carbondale, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carbondale, IL trip today.
University museum with rotating art, history, and science exhibitions. A practical stop for learning about the region and campus culture.
Campus art museum showing contemporary and historical works in curated exhibitions. Worth visiting for accessible regional and academic art programming.
Student-focused gallery presenting changing exhibitions by local and visiting artists. A smaller venue that offers a fresh look at current creative work.
Large community park with a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and open lawns. It is one of Carbondale’s best all-purpose outdoor spaces.
Downtown main street corridor with shops, events, murals, and easy walking access to local culture. A practical area for exploring the city center.
Wooded university nature area with short trails and wildlife viewing. It offers a calm walking break close to campus and central Carbondale.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rockford, 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.

Most Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL trains use the Rockford, East Side Transfer Center to Carbondale Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Rockford, IL and Carbondale, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Rockford, East Side Transfer Center is 11 km from Rockford city centre. Public transport options include:
Rockford, East Side Transfer Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center. ATMs are available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center.
Ticket office support is available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center.
Available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center: Step-free access areas provided.
Carbondale Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Carbondale Station.
Ticket office support is available at Carbondale Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Available at Carbondale Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Carbondale Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need