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- Free Drinks
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- Lounge Access
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£31
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£113
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h 26 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
2 h 34 m
Trains on 18 Sept
2
Distance
186 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Normal, 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around £113 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £31.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 186 km distance in an average of 2 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 26 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 41 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.
30620:172h26Uptown Station, Normal, IL22:43Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£311One-way0 changes- 2211:082h41Uptown Station, Normal, IL13:49Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£1961One-way0 changes
- 30620:172h26Uptown Station, Normal, IL22:43Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£311One-way0 changes
- 2211:082h41Uptown Station, Normal, IL13:49Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£1961One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £20 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 53m. 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 train costs an average of £20, while a flight costs an average of £272.
Distance: 186 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£20 Average Price Cheapest | £32 Average Price | £272 Average Price | £20 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration 4h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 16m Average total duration 1h 16m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 1h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.1kg 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of £20.
This is compared to other travel options from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL:
A train is £12 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average £32.
A train is £252 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average £272.
The fastest way to travel from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 16m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 23m.
Coach takes on average 4h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Normal, IL and Chicago, IL including taking a coach, 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 £20 compared to roughly £20 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-0.14. The journey takes 2h 23m versus 1h 57m 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
Normal, IL to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Normal, IL to Chicago, IL trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 | 7:06 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 2h19 | 9:25 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 302 | 9:16 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 2h24 | 11:40 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22 | 11:08 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 2h41 | 13:49 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 306 | 20:17 Uptown Station, Normal, IL | 2h26 | 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:06, the last at 20:17. The fastest train covers the 186 km distance in 1h 43m.
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 186 km |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price £11 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 43m |
First train 7:06 |
Last train 20:17 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Normal, IL and Chicago, 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 43m
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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Normal, IL and Chicago, 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 43m
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 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
Art Institute of Chicago
Major art museum with global collections, notable Impressionist works, and a landmark setting beside Millennium Park.
- 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: Normal, IL to Chicago, IL train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Normal, 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £11, while the average price tends to be around £20.
The train journey from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL covers a distance of 186 km and takes approximately 1h 43m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is 186 km.
The first train from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 7:06.
The last train from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL departs at 20:17.
Trains from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train between Normal, IL and Chicago, IL. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Normal, IL that goes to Chicago, IL is Uptown Station, Normal, IL, and it arrives at Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is by train, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Normal, 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL offers a pleasant view of the Midwestern landscape, characterised by stretches of farmland, small towns, and occasional glimpses of the Illinois River, but it is not renowned for dramatic scenic views.
A day trip from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 43m. However, there are 4 train trips per day covering a distance of 186 km.
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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Normal, IL and Chicago, IL
Most Normal, IL to Chicago, IL trains use the Uptown Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Normal, 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 Normal
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which Normal, IL station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL leave from Uptown Station. The station is 1 km from Normal, IL city centre at 11 Uptown Circle, Normal, IL 61761, USA.
Uptown Station11 Uptown Circle, Normal, IL 61761, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Uptown Station from Normal city centre
BusYw · 3m · £0.90 · every ~3 min
Uptown Station train station facilities and services
Uptown 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, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Medici, The Rock Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Uptown Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Uptown Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Uptown Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Uptown Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Uptown Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal, Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, Hampton Inn & Suites Bloomington-Normal.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Normal, IL arrive at?
Trains from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL most often arrive at Union Station. Some services arrive at Summit Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chicago, IL arrival station.
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 Normal, 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 Normal, IL
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