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- Free Drinks
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- Lounge Access
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept
Cheapest price on 05 Sept
£24
Average ticket price on 05 Sept
£50
Fastest journey on 05 Sept
1 h 43 m
Average journey duration on 05 Sept
1 h 51 m
Trains on 05 Sept
8
Distance
189 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, 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 Bloomington, IL will cost around £50 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £24.
Fast trains
On Sat 05 Sept, we found 8 trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL, including 8 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 189 km distance in an average of 1 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 43 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 5 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.
307 Lincoln Service19:321h44Summit Station, Summit, IL21:16Uptown Station, Normal, IL£241One-way0 changes- 305 Lincoln Service17:421h43Summit Station, Summit, IL19:25Uptown Station, Normal, IL£241One-way0 changes
- 305 Lincoln Service17:202h05Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL19:25Uptown Station, Normal, IL£251One-way0 changes
- 307 Lincoln Service19:102h06Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL21:16Uptown Station, Normal, IL£251One-way0 changes
- 301 Lincoln Service7:151h58Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:13Uptown Station, Normal, IL£411One-way0 changes
- 305 Lincoln Service17:421h43Summit Station, Summit, IL19:25Uptown Station, Normal, IL£241One-way0 changes
- 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner10:131h43Summit Station, Summit, IL11:56Uptown Station, Normal, IL£551One-way0 changes
- 307 Lincoln Service19:321h44Summit Station, Summit, IL21:16Uptown Station, Normal, IL£241One-way0 changes
- 301 Lincoln Service7:151h58Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:13Uptown Station, Normal, IL£411One-way0 changes
- 305 Lincoln Service17:202h05Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL19:25Uptown Station, Normal, IL£251One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £34 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 36m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £34, while a flight costs an average of £334.
Distance: 189 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£35 Average Price | £34 Average Price Cheapest | £334 Average Price | £21 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 3m Average total duration 4h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 2m Average total duration 1h 2m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL is a coach with an average price of £34.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL:
A coach is £0.57 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL costing on average £35.
A coach is £300 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL costing on average £334.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 2m.
Other travel options to Bloomington, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 6m.
Coach takes on average 4h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 4m sooner (2h 6m by train vs 2h 10m by car). Tickets start at around £35 compared to roughly £21 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL trains for today, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 305 Lincoln Service | 17:20 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h05 | 19:25 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 305 Lincoln Service | 17:42 Summit Station, Summit, IL | 1h43 | 19:25 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 307 Lincoln Service | 19:10 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h06 | 21:16 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 307 Lincoln Service | 19:32 Summit Station, Summit, IL | 1h44 | 21:16 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 5 September | |||||
| 301 Lincoln Service | 7:15 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1h58 | 9:13 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 9:50 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h06 | 11:56 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 10:13 Summit Station, Summit, IL | 1h43 | 11:56 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 21 Texas Eagle | 14:10 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2h12 | 16:22 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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.
Sat
05 Sept
05 Sept
Sun
06 Sept
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept
07 Sept
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08 Sept
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11 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:06, the last at 20:17. The fastest train covers the 189 km distance in 1h 44m.
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 189 km |
Average train duration 2h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price £11 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 44m |
First train 7:06 |
Last train 20:17 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL from £11. 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
1h 44m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£11
Amtrak frequency
4 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
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL from £11. 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
1h 44m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£11
Amtrak frequency
4 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
What's included in each class
Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.
Business Class Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
- WC
Business Travel Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Coach Lower Level Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Reserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
Coach Unreserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Family Bedroom
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Superliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Viewliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Complete guide to Bloomington, IL
Things to do in Bloomington, IL
Discover the best of Bloomington, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bloomington, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Eskenazi Museum of Art
University art museum with global collections from ancient to modern works, ideal for a thoughtful cultural visit.
- Recommended
Monroe County History Center
Interactive local history museum covering Monroe County stories, people and artefacts in a restored freight depot.
PIGSah
Compact contemporary gallery presenting rotating exhibitions by regional and national artists in downtown Bloomington.
- Must visit
B-Line Trail
Popular rail-trail route through the city linking parks, public art and neighbourhoods on an easy walk or cycle.
- Recommended
Courthouse Square
Lively central square framed by historic buildings, shops and public events; a practical starting point for exploring.
- Recommended
Kirkwood Avenue
Tree-lined campus thoroughfare with limestone buildings, gardens and an iconic collegiate atmosphere for walking.
Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is an Indiana staple: a thin pork cutlet fried crisp and served on a bun, often comically larger than the bread.
- Vegetarian
Sugar Cream Pie
Sugar cream pie, often called Hoosier pie, is Indiana’s classic custard pie with cream, sugar and cinnamon, prized for its simple farm-kitchen roots.
- Vegetarian
Persimmon Pudding
Persimmon pudding is a southern Indiana favourite made with native persimmons, flour and spices, usually served warm with cream or a sweet sauce.
Malibu Grill
Long-running fine dining restaurant known for seasonal American cooking, seafood and steaks in an elegant historic house atmosphere.
Farm Bloomington
Popular downtown bistro serving refined New American dishes and cocktails in a lively yet relaxed setting near the courthouse square.
Lennie's
Well-known local pizzeria and brewpub with house beers, deep roots in Bloomington and a busy, informal college-town feel.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for the US Midwest: lodging and dining are fairly priced, while car-dependent transport can add costs for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 for café drinks if there is table service; tipping is expected in most service settings.
FAQs: Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, 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 Bloomington, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £11, while the average price tends to be around £35.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL covers a distance of 189 km and takes approximately 1h 44m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL is 189 km.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL leaves at 7:06.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL departs at 20:17.
Trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Bloomington, IL is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, and it arrives at Uptown Station, Normal, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL is by train, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, 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, IL to Bloomington, IL offers a glimpse of the Midwest's rural beauty, passing through picturesque farmland and small towns, though it does not feature dramatic landscapes or major natural landmarks.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 44m. However, there are 4 train trips per day available for this 189 km journey.
In Bloomington, IL, visitors can enjoy the Bloomington Centre for the Performing Arts for a variety of performances, or challenge themselves at the Upper Limits Rock Gym. The Ewing Cultural Centre offers beautiful gardens and cultural events, while Grady's Family Fun Park provides amusement with go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games. Rader Family Farms is a seasonal spot with a pumpkin patch and corn maze. For sights, the McLean County Museum of History and the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site offer historical insights, while the Miller Park Zoo and Prairie Aviation Museum provide engaging exhibits. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Constitution Trail for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Spending two to three days in Bloomington, IL, allows visitors to explore key attractions such as the David Davis Mansion and the McLean County Museum of History, while also enjoying the local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL
Most Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL trains use the Union Station to Uptown Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Bloomington, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Bloomington
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Bloomington, IL leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL leave from Union Station. The station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · £3 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Bloomington, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bloomington, IL and Chicago, IL
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