- Must visit
Saint Louis Art Museum
Vast art museum in Forest Park with global collections from antiquity to modern works and strong free general admission.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a flight costs an average of $372.
Distance: 258 miles (416 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$89 Average price | $66 Average price Cheapest | $397 Average price | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 46m Average total duration 7h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 59m Average total duration 8h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO is a bus with an average price of $66.
This is compared to other travel options from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO:
A bus is $23 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO costing on average $89.
A bus is $331 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO costing on average $397.
The fastest way to travel from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 29m.
Other travel options to St. Louis, MO take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 16m.
Bus takes on average 8h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Rockford, IL and St. Louis, MO including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO 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 $89 compared to roughly $60 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.81. The journey takes 7h 16m versus 4h 18m 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
Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO train times
The table below shows live departures for Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 8956 AMTRAK · 301 Lincoln Service | 4:20 AM Rockford, IL | 7h41 | 12:01 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 8956 AMTRAK · 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 4:20 AM Rockford, IL | 10h31 | 2:51 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 8976 AMTRAK · 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 5:50 AM Rockford, IL | 9h01 | 2:51 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 8962 AMTRAK · 21 Texas Eagle | 8:50 AM Rockford, IL | 10h35 | 7:25 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 8970 AMTRAK · 21 Texas Eagle | 9:50 AM Rockford, IL | 9h35 | 7:25 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 8968 AMTRAK · 307 Lincoln Service | 12:50 PM Rockford, IL | 11h19 | 12:09 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 8972 AMTRAK · 307 Lincoln Service | 2:50 PM Rockford, IL | 9h19 | 12:09 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO
USAUSA
Trains from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $88 but you can travel from only $49 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:55, the last at 14:50. The fastest train covers the 258 miles (416 km) distance in 9h 19m.
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 $49
Distance 258 miles (416 km) |
Average train duration 7h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 9h 19m |
First train 3:55 AM |
Last train 2:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $49
Train companies: Amtrak from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Rockford, IL and St. Louis, MO from $49. 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
9h 19m
Cheapest Price
$88
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 St. Louis, MO
Things to do in St. Louis, MO
Discover the best of St. Louis, MO — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect St. Louis, MO trip today.
- Recommended
Missouri History Museum
Leading history museum covering St. Louis, Missouri, and national stories through rotating exhibitions in Forest Park.
- Recommended
Saint Louis Science Center
Interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, planetarium, and family-friendly displays near Forest Park.
- Must visit
Gateway Arch National Park Grounds
Lively downtown riverfront district with trails, views of the Arch, public art, and access to major historic sites.
- Must visit
Forest Park
Large urban park with trails, lakes, zoo access, and major museums, ideal for walking between top attractions.
- Recommended
Tower Grove Park
Beloved neighborhood park with formal lily ponds, pavilions, and one of the city's most photographed landscapes.
- Vegetarian
St. Louis-Style Pizza
A thin, cracker-like crust pizza cut into squares and topped with Provel cheese, a St. Louis original loved for its distinct texture and tangy flavor.
- Vegetarian
Toasted Ravioli
Crisp, breaded ravioli said to be born on The Hill, usually served with marinara. It is a signature St. Louis Italian-American appetizer.
- Vegetarian
Gooey Butter Cake
Sticky butter cake with a dense base and gooey sweet top. A longtime St. Louis bakery favorite often enjoyed for breakfast or dessert.
Bulrush
Refined contemporary restaurant with tasting menus and strong national acclaim. Elegant fine dining focused on seasonal Midwestern ingredients.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
Beloved frozen custard stand serving concretes and sundaes since 1929. Casual, nostalgic, and one of the city's iconic dessert stops.
Pappy's Smokehouse
Popular smokehouse known for St. Louis barbecue, especially ribs, brisket, and pork steak, in a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels and dining are reasonable, transit is limited, and attractions often cost less than in larger U.S. tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a mid-range restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts.
FAQs: Trains from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $88, while the average price is around $89.
The train from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO takes 9h 19m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO is 258 miles (416 km).
The first train from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO leaves at 3:55 AM.
The last train from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO leaves at 2:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO.
The cheapest way to get from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO is by bus, with a cost of around $49.
The train journey from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of the rolling farmlands of Illinois and the scenic Mississippi River near St. Louis, providing a pleasant, though not particularly dramatic, backdrop.
A day trip from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO is not feasible as the journey duration is 9h 19m. The distance between the two cities is 258 miles (416 km). There are 7 train trips available per day.
Three days are typically sufficient to explore key attractions in St. Louis, including the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, and the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Yes, you can take the train from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO.
Since neither Rockford, IL nor St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO include Springfield, IL, Hermann, MO, Washington, MO, Alton, IL, Carlinville, IL.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO, travelers should be cautious in certain neighborhoods with higher crime rates, especially after dark. Common safety concerns include petty theft, pickpocketing, and occasional scams targeting visitors near popular attractions like the Gateway Arch. It’s advisable to stay in well-populated areas, avoid displaying valuables openly, and use reputable transportation services to minimize risks.
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 Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO
Most Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO trains use the Rockford, East Side Transfer Center to St. Louis Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Rockford, IL and St. Louis, MO train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rockford
Arrival train stations in St. Louis
Which Rockford, IL station do trains to St. Louis, MO leave from?
Trains from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO leave from Rockford, East Side Transfer Center. The station is 6 miles (11 km) from Rockford, IL city centre at East Side Transfer Center, Rockford, IL 61107, USA.
Rockford, East Side Transfer CenterEast Side Transfer Center, Rockford, IL 61107, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Rockford, East Side Transfer Center from Rockford city centre
Rockford, East Side Transfer Center is 11 km from Rockford city centre. Public transport options include:
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Rockford, East Side Transfer Center train station facilities and services
Rockford, East Side Transfer Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center. ATMs are available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rockford, East Side Transfer Center: Step-free access areas provided.
Which St. Louis, MO station do trains from Rockford, IL arrive at?
Trains from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO most often arrive at St. Louis Station. Some services arrive at Kirkwood Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your St. Louis, MO arrival station.
St. Louis Station430 S 15th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to St. Louis Station from St. Louis city centre
TrainMlb, Mlr · 3m · $4 · every ~14 min
St. Louis Station train station facilities and services
St. Louis 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, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Landry's Seafood House, The Station Grille
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St. Louis Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at St. Louis Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St. Louis Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at St. Louis Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St. Louis Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, Courtyard St. Louis Downtown West, Drury Inn St. Louis at Union Station.
More options for your journey from Rockford, IL to St. Louis, MO
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from St. Louis, MO and Rockford, IL
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