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- Lounge Access
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Sept
Cheapest price on 12 Sept
£24
Average ticket price on 12 Sept
£48
Fastest journey on 12 Sept
3 h 14 m
Average journey duration on 12 Sept
3 h 22 m
Trains on 12 Sept
6
Distance
283 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Springfield, 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 Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around £48 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £24.
Fast trains
On Sat 12 Sept, we found 6 trains from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL, including 6 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 283 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 14 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 46 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 Service19:243h19Springfield Station, Springfield, IL22:43Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£241One-way0 changes- 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner16:463h14Springfield Station, Springfield, IL20:00Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£431One-way0 changes
- 300 Lincoln Service6:113h14Springfield Station, Springfield, IL9:25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£431One-way0 changes
- 302 Lincoln Service8:223h18Springfield Station, Springfield, IL11:40Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£601One-way0 changes
- 22 Texas Eagle10:033h46Springfield Station, Springfield, IL13:49Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£601One-way0 changes
- 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner16:463h14Springfield Station, Springfield, IL20:00Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£431One-way0 changes
- 300 Lincoln Service6:113h14Springfield Station, Springfield, IL9:25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£431One-way0 changes
- 302 Lincoln Service8:223h18Springfield Station, Springfield, IL11:40Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£601One-way0 changes
- 306 Lincoln Service19:243h19Springfield Station, Springfield, IL22:43Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£241One-way0 changes
- 22 Texas Eagle10:033h46Springfield Station, Springfield, IL13:49Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL£601One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £32 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 18m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £32, while a flight costs an average of £324.
Distance: 283 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£32 Average Price Cheapest | £34 Average Price | £324 Average Price | £30 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 50m Average total duration 3h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg 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 Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of £32.
This is compared to other travel options from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL:
A train is £2 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average £34.
A train is £292 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average £324.
The fastest way to travel from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 18m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 20m.
Coach takes on average 4h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Springfield, IL and Chicago, IL including taking a train, coach 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 £32 compared to roughly £30 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-2.45. The journey takes 3h 20m versus 3h 3m 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
Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday 11 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 16:46 Springfield Station, Springfield, IL | 3h14 | 20:00 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 306 Lincoln Service | 19:24 Springfield Station, Springfield, IL | 3h19 | 22:43 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 12 September | |||||
| 300 Lincoln Service | 6:11 Springfield Station, Springfield, IL | 3h14 | 9:25 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 302 Lincoln Service | 8:22 Springfield Station, Springfield, IL | 3h18 | 11:40 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22 Texas Eagle | 10:03 Springfield Station, Springfield, IL | 3h46 | 13:49 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 changesdirect | |
| 422 Texas Eagle | 10:03 Springfield Station, Springfield, IL | 3h46 | 13:49 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 Springfield, IL to Chicago, 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
12 Sept
12 Sept
Sun
13 Sept
13 Sept
Mon
14 Sept
14 Sept
Tue
15 Sept
15 Sept
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16 Sept
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18 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £16 if you book in advance.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:11, the last at 19:46. The fastest train covers the 283 km distance in 3h 14m.
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 283 km |
Average train duration 3h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £16 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 3h 14m |
First train 6:11 |
Last train 19:46 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Springfield, IL and Chicago, IL from £16. 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
3h 14m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£16
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Springfield, IL and Chicago, IL from £16. 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
3h 14m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£16
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
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: Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Springfield, 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 Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £16, while the average price tends to be around £32.
The train journey from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL covers a distance of 283 km and takes approximately 3h 14m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL is 283 km.
The first train from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:11.
The last train from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL departs at 19:46.
Trains from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train between Springfield, IL and Chicago, IL. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Springfield, IL that goes to Chicago, IL is Springfield Station, Springfield, IL, and it arrives at Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL is by train, costing approximately £16.
Booking trains from Springfield, 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 Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the Illinois countryside, farmland, and small towns. However, much of the route also includes urban and industrial areas, so while there are picturesque moments, it is not considered predominantly scenic.
A day trip from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey lasts 3h 14m. Trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 283 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 Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Springfield, IL and Chicago, IL
Most Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL trains use the Springfield Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Springfield, 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 Springfield
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which Springfield, IL station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from Springfield, IL to Chicago, IL leave from Springfield Station. The station is 1 km from Springfield, IL city centre at 100 North 3rd Street, Springfield, IL 62701, USA.
Springfield Station100 North 3rd Street, Springfield, IL 62701, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Springfield Station from Springfield city centre
Bus7, 903 · 6m · £2 · every ~3 min
Springfield Station train station facilities and services
Springfield Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Springfield Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Springfield Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Springfield Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Springfield Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Wyndham Springfield City Centre, Carpenter Street Hotel.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Springfield, IL arrive at?
Trains from Springfield, 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 Springfield, 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 Springfield, IL
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