- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$46
Average price
$70
Fastest journey
4 h 55 m
Average duration
5 h 6 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
417 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL will cost around $70 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Fast trains
Of the 10 trains that leave St. Charles, MO for Chicago, IL on Mon, Jul 13, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 13 the direct trains cover the 417 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 55 m .
On Mon, Jul 13 the slowest trains will take 5 h 24 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.
306 Lincoln Service5:40 PM5h03St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$461One-way0 transfers- 300 Lincoln Service4:30 AM4h55St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO9:25 AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$561One-way0 transfers
- 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 306 Lincoln Service1:47 PM8h13Kirkwood Station, Kirkwood, MO10:00 PMSummit Station, Summit, IL$571One-way1 transfer
- 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 306 Lincoln Service1:47 PM8h56Kirkwood Station, Kirkwood, MO10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$581One-way1 transfer
- 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner2:55 PM5h05St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$661One-way0 transfers
- 300 Lincoln Service4:30 AM4h55St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO9:25 AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$561One-way0 transfers
- 306 Lincoln Service5:40 PM5h03St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$461One-way0 transfers
- 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner2:55 PM5h05St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$661One-way0 transfers
- 302 Lincoln Service6:35 AM5h05St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO11:40 AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$791One-way0 transfers
- 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner1:47 PM5h24Kirkwood Station, Kirkwood, MO7:11 PMSummit Station, Summit, IL$681One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $27, and a flight costs an average of $192.
Distance: 259 miles (417 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$42 Average price Cheapest | $296 Average price | $53 Average price | $62 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 10m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 2m Average total duration 6h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $42 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL:
A train is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $53 (€43).
A train is $254 (€209) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $296 (€243).
The fastest way to travel from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 28m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 40m.
Bus takes on average 6h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between St. Charles, MO and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from St. Charles, MO to 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
St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL trains for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 1:47 PM Kirkwood Station, Kirkwood, MO | 6h13 | 8:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 2:55 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 5h05 | 8:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, July 13 | |||||
| 300 Lincoln Service | 4:30 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 4h55 | 9:25 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 302 Lincoln Service | 6:35 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 5h05 | 11:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 422 Texas Eagle | 8:10 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 5h39 | 1:49 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 22 Texas Eagle | 8:10 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 5h39 | 1:49 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 St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL 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 St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 259 miles (417 km) distance in 4h 11m.
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 259 miles (417 km) |
Average train duration 4h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 4h 11m |
First train 4:30 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 14 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 St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between St. Charles, MO and Chicago, IL from $27 (€22). 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
4h 11m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Amtrak frequency
15 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
Renowned natural history museum known for dinosaur fossils, global anthropology collections, and the famous T. rex, SUE.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Large hands-on science museum with a U-505 submarine, space exhibits, and interactive displays popular with families.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature public park, home to major public art, gardens, and frequent events in the city center.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue known for landmark buildings, shopping, and one of the city’s busiest visitor corridors.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Popular pedestrian waterfront lined with views of major architecture, bridges, and boat activity through downtown.
Chicago-Style 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 iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Trains from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from St. Charles, MO to 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, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€22), while the average price is around $42 (€34).
The train from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL takes 4h 11m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL is 259 miles (417 km).
The first train from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:30 AM.
The last train from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL.
The train station in St. Charles, MO that goes to Chicago, IL is St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL is by train, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL offers scenic views, particularly of the Mississippi River and the rolling landscapes of Illinois, providing a pleasant and visually appealing experience for travelers.
A day trip from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 11m. The distance is 259 miles (417 km), and there are 13 train trips per day.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL.
Since neither St. Charles, MO nor 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, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from St. Charles, MO to 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.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these 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.
More options for your journey from St. Charles, MO to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and St. Charles, MO
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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