- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
Major art museum with global collections, notable Impressionist works, and a landmark setting beside Millennium Park.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Sept
Cheapest price on 20 Sept
£21
Average ticket price on 20 Sept
£34
Fastest journey on 20 Sept
2 h 49 m
Average journey duration on 20 Sept
2 h 59 m
Trains on 20 Sept
5
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around £34 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £21.
Fast trains
On Sun 20 Sept, we found 5 trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL, including 5 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 2 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 49 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 20 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.
2210:293h20Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL13:49Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£211One-way0 changes- 3006:362h49Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL9:25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£291One-way0 changes
- 3028:442h56Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL11:40Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£291One-way0 changes
- 30619:462h57Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL22:43Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£431One-way0 changes
- 31817:082h52Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL20:00Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£481One-way0 changes
- 3006:362h49Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL9:25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£291One-way0 changes
- 31817:082h52Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL20:00Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£481One-way0 changes
- 3028:442h56Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL11:40Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£291One-way0 changes
- 30619:462h57Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL22:43Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£431One-way0 changes
- 2210:293h20Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL13:49Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£211One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £51 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 31m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £51, while a flight costs an average of £478.
Distance: 238 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£51 Average Price Cheapest | £478 Average Price | £26 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 31m Average total duration Fastest 3h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 26m Average total duration 4h 26m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of £51.
This is compared to other travel options from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL:
A train is £427 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average £478.
The fastest way to travel from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL is by train with an average journey time of 3h 1m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Flight takes on average 4h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lincoln, IL and Chicago, IL including taking a train and flight.
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 £51 compared to roughly £26 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-25.23. The journey takes 3h 1m versus 2h 32m 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
Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL trains for today, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 | 6:36 Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL | 2h49 | 9:25 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 302 | 8:44 Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL | 2h56 | 11:40 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 422 | 10:29 Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL | 3h20 | 13:49 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22 | 10:29 Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL | 3h20 | 13:49 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 318 | 17:08 Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL | 2h52 | 20:00 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 306 | 19:46 Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL | 2h57 | 22:43 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL by train or flight
Compare 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.
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
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26 Sept
26 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:36, the last at 19:46. The fastest train covers the 238 km distance in 2h 49m.
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 238 km |
Average train duration 2h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 49m |
First train 6:36 |
Last train 19:46 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 49 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 Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Lincoln, IL and Chicago, IL from £15. 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
2h 49m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£15
Amtrak frequency
5 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 $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Science museum in Jackson Park with hands-on exhibits, a U-505 submarine, and broad appeal for families and curious adults.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Natural history museum on the Museum Campus, known for dinosaur fossils, gem displays, and wide-ranging science exhibits.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and frequent events at the heart of central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Bustling avenue for architecture, shopping, river views, and easy walking between landmark buildings and major attractions.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Chicago River with terraces, bridges, boat access, and excellent close-up architecture views.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is a Chicago classic with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked in a deep pan.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in savoury juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera.
North Pond
Elegant fine-dining restaurant rooted in Midwestern ingredients, with polished service and a refined contemporary dining room.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Historic pizzeria known for classic Chicago deep-dish in a lively, casual setting near the Magnificent Mile.
Al's Beef
Long-running counter-service spot famed for Italian beef sandwiches, dipped rolls and spicy giardiniera in a no-frills setting.
US dollar ($)
Expensive by US city standards: hotels, dining and attractions add up, though buses and the 'L' help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafés if table service is given.
FAQs: Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lincoln, IL 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £15, while the average price tends to be around £51.
The train journey from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL covers a distance of 238 km and takes approximately 2h 49m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL is 238 km.
The first train from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:36.
The last train from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL departs at 19:46.
Trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train between Lincoln, IL and Chicago, IL. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL, you can choose from several travel options including train and flight.
There is no night train service from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Lincoln, IL that goes to Chicago, IL is Lincoln Station, Lincoln, IL, and it arrives at Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL is by train, costing approximately £15.
Booking trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, 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 Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL offers a relatively scenic experience, as it traverses through the picturesque landscapes of central Illinois, featuring expansive farmlands and small-town views before approaching the urban skyline of Chicago.
A day trip from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 49m. However, there are 5 train services per day available for this 238 km journey.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry for interactive exhibits on science and technology or discover the vibrant neighbourhoods of Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, renowned for their unique shops and eateries. Take a river cruise to admire the city's iconic architecture, or enjoy a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Spend a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest in the U.S. and free to enter. For sightseeing, visit Millennium Park with its modern art installations, the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, Willis Tower Skydeck for panoramic city views, or the Field Museum to see the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, including its museums, architecture, and dining, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Lincoln, IL and Chicago, IL
Most Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL trains use the Lincoln Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Lincoln, IL and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lincoln
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which Lincoln, IL station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL leave from Lincoln Station. The station is from Lincoln, IL city centre at 101 N Chicago St, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA.
Lincoln Station101 N Chicago St, Lincoln, IL 62656, USA+1 800-872-7245
Lincoln Station train station facilities and services
Lincoln Station has practical services for this route, including Dining and Accessibility.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lincoln Station.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lincoln Station.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Lincoln, IL arrive at?
Trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Lincoln, IL
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