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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Rantoul

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Chicago to Rantoul Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Chicago and Rantoul. The average train journey from Chicago to Rantoul takes 2 hours and 4 minutes, but some Amtrak Illini Service train trips are as short as 2 hours and 3 minutes.

Distance112 mi (180 km)
Fastest train2h 3m
Lowest price$17.18
Trains per day2
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Saluki
Train lines2

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Rantoul

(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)

4.0

4.0

Rennard

October 14, 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Illini Service

Pros: That all the staff was helpful and friendly. Cons: The price is too high at times. Tips: Book as early as you can.

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

Over the past month, a train ticket between Chicago and Rantoul cost $25.06, on average. This is about as cheap as train fares get on this route. Booking your trip at least 22 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around $17.81 more.

Monthly avg. prices

$72$57$43$29$14MAMJJASONDJF
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Rantoul often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in December when the average ticket price is only $26. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Rantoul during March, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $37 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in March, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

$72$57$43$29$143020100

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Rantoul on Wanderu at least 22 days ahead of time, you can save about $17.81 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Rantoul?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Rantoul. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Illini Service12h 4m$32.44
Amtrak Saluki12h 5m$29.92
  • Since 1973, Amtrak's Illini Service has provided reliable train transportation to 11 Illinois cities. The Illini operates as an evening commuter train from Chicago to Carbondale, while its sister train, the Amtrak Saluki, runs the morning route. Commuters rely on this service as a safe and convenient transportation option every day. Each train offers WiFi and power outlets, plus a cafe car and business class seating. Illini trains meet the highest federal standard for reducing emissions, with up to 90% less greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Since its inception in 2006, the Amtrak Saluki line has offered daily train trips between Chicago and Carbondale. The Amtrak Saluki operates along 500 kilometers of railroad, stopping at numerous midwestern towns like Kankakee, Rantoul, and Effingham. The trains on this line are equipped with onboard WiFi, power outlets, air conditioning, and a cafe car, with the option to upgrade to business class seating. This line is known for using trains that produce 90% fewer carbon emissions than other trains, meaning that your trip is green as well as convenient.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Rantoul

The distance between Chicago and Rantoul is approximately 112 miles, or 180 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 4 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 3 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.

On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Chicago to Rantoul on Saturday. Tickets for Saturday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Chicago at 8:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

Trains leave the station in Chicago twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Rantoul with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Rantoul to Chicago.

City Information

Chicago

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 neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, 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?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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:

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

Where is the train station in Rantoul?

Main arrival station: W Sangamon and N Kentucky Aves

Rantoul has one train station.

Train stations in Rantoul:

  • W Sangamon and N Kentucky Aves

Get around town with Moovit

Find the best way to get to and from any station in Rantoul by public transit, courtesy of Moovit. Search now

Need a return trip from Rantoul to Chicago?

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