Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL train with Amtrak

Thu 15 Jan
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Amtrak
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Deutsche Bahn
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL

Showing times and prices for 15 Jan

Cheapest price

£12

Average price

£27

Fastest journey

2 h 31 m

Average duration

3 h 41 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

199 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL will cost around £27 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £12.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Champaign, IL every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 199 km distance in an average of 3 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 31 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 55 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.

Amtrak391 Saluki
08:152h32
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
10:47Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
£121One-way
0 changes
Amtrak393 Illini
16:052h31
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
18:36Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
£221One-way
0 changes
Amtrak59 City Of New Orleans
20:052h45
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
22:50Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
£331One-way
0 changes
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 8890 AMTRAK
09:506h55
Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
16:45Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL
£401One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 29m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £10, and a coach costs an average of £17.

Distance: 199 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£24

Average Price

Cheapest

£28

Average Price

2h 59m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 26m

Average total duration

2h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL trains for today, Wednesday 14 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 13:47
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
amtrak391 Saluki14:15 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
2h32
16:47 Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL0 changesdirect
amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 8890 AMTRAK15:50 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
6h55
22:45 Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL1 change
amtrak393 Illini22:05 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
2h31
00:36 Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL0 changesdirect
Thursday 15 January
amtrak59 City Of New Orleans02:05 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
2h45
04:50 Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL0 changesdirect
amtrak13:15 Chicago, IL
2h32
15:47 Champaign, IL0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL by train or coach

Compare train and coach 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.

Thu
15 Jan
Fri
16 Jan
Sat
17 Jan
Sun
18 Jan
Mon
19 Jan
Tue
20 Jan
Wed
21 Jan
Thu
22 Jan
Fri
23 Jan
Sat
24 Jan
Sun
25 Jan
Mon
26 Jan
Tue
27 Jan
Wed
28 Jan

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL?

The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £10 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 21:05. The fastest train covers the 199 km distance in 2h 3m.

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
199 km
Average train duration
2h 29m
Cheapest ticket price
£10
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 3m
First train
04:10
Last train
21:05
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 Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Champaign, IL from £10. 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
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
£12
Amtrak frequency
3 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

FAQs: Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Champaign, 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 Champaign, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £10, while the average price tends to be around £24.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL covers a distance of 199 km and takes approximately 2h 3m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL is 199 km.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL leaves at 4:10.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL departs at 21:05.
Trains from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago, IL and Champaign, IL. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Champaign, IL is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, and it arrives at Champaign-Urbana Station, Champaign, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL is by train, costing approximately £10.
Booking trains from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chicago to Champaign offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Passengers can enjoy views of the Chicago skyline, suburban areas, and the changing farmland scenery of Illinois. While not renowned as a scenic route, it provides a pleasant glimpse into the region's diverse environments.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 3m and the frequency of trains is 3 per day.
In Champaign, IL, you can explore the Orpheum Children's Science Museum, which offers interactive exhibits for children, or visit the Market at the Square for local produce, crafts, and live music. The historic Virginia Theatre hosts films, live performances, and community events. For family fun, Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch offers apple picking, a pumpkin patch, and a petting zoo. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings and scenic views at Alto Vineyards. Art and culture lovers will appreciate the Krannert Art Museum's diverse collection, the University of Illinois Arboretum's serene gardens, the Spurlock Museum's global exhibits, and the Champaign County Historical Museum. Hessel Park is perfect for walks, playground fun, and picnics.
Two to three days in Champaign, IL is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy local dining, and experience the vibrant cultural scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Chicago, IL and Champaign, IL

Chicago
Champaign
The major train station for departures in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Chicago to Champaign.
Union StationWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
24
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
Dining
Dining
  • The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
  • Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Kimpton Gray Hotel
  • JW Marriott Chicago
  • W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Enterprise
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
  • Hall 2: Metra services
  • Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transport options for Union Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Champaign, IL

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