Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Alton

Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.

Trip Summary

There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Chicago to Alton. Travelling by train from Chicago to Alton usually takes 4 hours and 11 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lincoln Service train can make the trip in 3 hours and 57 minutes.

Distance
246 mi (396 km)
Fastest train
3h 57m
Lowest price
CHF 22.49
Trains per day
5
Most frequent service
Amtrak Lincoln Service
Train lines
3

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

Chiku

Chicago to Alton Train Schedule

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Alton (Based on 16 ratings and reviews)

4.9

5.0

Dorian

September 18, 2024 - Visiting family

Amtrak
Pros: It was comfortable and relaxing and peaceful Cons: Variety of food and snacks Tips: No

5.0

Jeremy

July 8, 2023 - Solo travel

Amtrak Lincoln Service
Pros: So nice having both seats to myself with my luggage just above me.

5.0

ALASANA

January 4, 2023 - Visiting friends

Amtrak Texas Eagle
Pros: Everything about the train was just perfect Cons: I think it’s a good Tips: Not at this point

5.0

James

October 1, 2022 - Visiting family

Amtrak Texas Eagle
Pros: Comfort Cons: Nothing really Tips: Be willing to move to accommodate couples so they can sit together

5.0

Alonzo

September 13, 2022 - Business

Amtrak Texas Eagle
Pros: Quite and comfortable Cons: Being on time Tips: Just know you might be late to a business meeting.

What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Alton?

In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Alton cost about CHF 47 when booked at the cheapest time. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 8 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 43.64 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Alton by travel date

CHF 210CHF 140CHF 70NovNov

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Alton will cost between CHF 25 and CHF 207. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Alton by month

CHF 75CHF 60CHF 45CHF 30CHF 15JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Alton often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only CHF 42. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Alton during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 65 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

CHF 100CHF 80CHF 60CHF 40CHF 2001020

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Alton on Wanderu at least 8 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 43.64 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Alton?

There are 3 train lines with service from Chicago to Alton. Amtrak Lincoln Service is the most popular choice with travellers, offering scheduled service on 3 trains each day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak14h 7mCHF 44.96
Amtrak Lincoln Service34h 8mCHF 43.89
Amtrak Texas Eagle14h 20mCHF 122.85
  • Amtrak is the largest passenger railway service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned washroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there is 1 Amtrak train from Chicago to Alton every day, as well as 1 trip on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 22.49.

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  • Amtrak Lincoln Service is part of Amtrak's Illinois Service, providing rail transportation throughout Illinois. The Lincoln Service travels 284 miles between St. Louis and Chicago with nine intermediate stops. Amtrak Lincoln trains offer WiFi connectivity, power outlets, business class seating, and a cafe car to ensure passengers have the most comfortable journey possible.

  • Amtrak Texas Eagle is a train service operated by Amtrak that connects to Texas. It links Chicago with the heart of the Lone Star State in San Antonio, going to cities such as St. Louis and Dallas. Onboard amenities include washrooms, power outlets, complimentary WiFi, and a designated restaurant car with full meals.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Alton

There are 5 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Chicago to Alton. You can also take a train for your return trip from Alton to Chicago.

Trains per day

5

Direct trains

5

The distance between Chicago and Alton is approximately 396 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 4 hours and 11 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 57 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

246

Distance (km)

396

The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:15 a.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 7:10 p.m. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

7:15am

Last train

7:10pm

Trains from Chicago to Alton are the most crowded on Tuesday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Tuesday

Least crowded

Monday

City Information

Chicago

CHI-0CHI-1CHI-2

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighbourhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theatre, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main departure station: Union Station

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0CHIUST-2

The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.

All train stations in Chicago:

  • Union Station

Where is the train station in Alton?

Main arrival station: Multi-Modal Transportation Center

Alton has one train station.

All train stations in Alton:

  • Multi-Modal Transportation Center

Need a return trip from Alton to Chicago?

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