Cheap train tickets from Mattoon to Chicago

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

Trip Summary

There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Mattoon to Chicago. Travelling by train from Mattoon to Chicago usually takes 6 hours and 50 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Illini Service train can make the trip in 3 hours and 26 minutes.

Distance
170 mi (274 km)
Fastest train
3h 26m
Lowest price
$22.47
Trains per day
5
Most frequent service
Amtrak
Train lines
4

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Mattoon to Chicago Train Schedule

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Mattoon to Chicago (Based on 7 ratings and reviews)

4.4

5.0

august

November 16, 2022 - Visiting family

Amtrak Saluki
Pros: Ease of reservations travel Cons: Nothing at this point Tips: Book early

5.0

Diana

November 27, 2019 - Visiting family

Amtrak Illini Service
Pros: Totally enjoyed the whole experience. Cons: Trains running on time Tips: Bring snacks

1.0

Jay

July 29, 2019 - Couples trip

Amtrak Saluki
Pros: I liked the ease of not driving to Chicago. I also thought the price was fair. I also liked the trip from Chicago to Mattoon. Cons: We waited for an hour only to be told that the train would be at least two hours late due to some malfunction. The Greyhound bus driver said we all could hop on the bus. He was super helpful but the bus ride was not what we wanted. We went because we felt we had no other choice but it took much longer than planned, the bathroom was broken, and it was very cramped. Tips: Make sure your train is running and running on time

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

In the last month, train tickets from Mattoon to Chicago cost about $37 when booked at the cheapest time. This is basically as cheap as train fares can get. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 12 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $41.50 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Mattoon to Chicago by travel date

$300$200$100NovNov

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Mattoon to Chicago will cost between $31 and $286. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Mattoon to Chicago by month

$75$60$45$30$15JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Mattoon to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in August when the average ticket price is only $42. If you're thinking of travelling from Mattoon to Chicago during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $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

$100$80$60$40$2001020

By booking your train trip from Mattoon to Chicago on Wanderu at least 12 days ahead of time, you can save about $41.50 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Mattoon to Chicago?

There are 4 train lines with service from Mattoon to Chicago. Amtrak is your best bet, with 2 scheduled trains per day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak211h 12m$50.92
Amtrak City of New Orleans13h 37m$73.73
Amtrak Illini Service13h 26m$42.67
Amtrak Saluki13h 27m$53.91
  • 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 are 2 Amtrak trains from Mattoon to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $22.47.

    Amtrak train passing through mountains, offering affordable train tickets for scenic rail travel - WanderuModern Amtrak train at a station, providing cheap train travel and convenient Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak train speeding through scenic fall foliage, featuring cheap train tickets for long-distance trips - WanderuInterior view of a table in the dining car of an Amtrak train - WanderuInterior view of the dining car on an Amtrak train. Find affordable train tickets on - WanderuClean and spacious Amtrak bathroom, offering convenience and comfort for passengers during long train journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak power outlet for charging devices, providing convenience for passengers during affordable travel with cheap train tickets - WanderuComfortable Amtrak seats with ample legroom, ideal for relaxing during long journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuSpacious Amtrak seats with reclining options, offering comfort and convenience for passengers on affordable train travel - WanderuAmtrak viewing car seats with large windows, offering panoramic views and comfort for passengers enjoying scenic routes with affordable train tickets - Wanderu
  • The City of New Orleans is an Amtrak route that runs daily trains from Chicago to New Orleans and vice versa. The City of New Orleans includes a sightseer lounge with panoramic windows for the best views of the five states along the route. Affordable Coach seats cost about $73.73 for a trip from Mattoon to Chicago. However, the City of New Orleans also offers private roomettes and bedrooms for added comfort and luxury (and a higher price). Passengers who book sleeper accommodations will enjoy included meals, and all passengers can stop into the cafe car to purchase meals and snacks.

  • 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 kilometres of railway, 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 travelling by train from Mattoon to Chicago

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Mattoon to Chicago. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

There are 5 scheduled trains on most days. Of these, 3 are direct connections to Chicago. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Mattoon.

Trains per day

5

Direct trains

3

The distance between Mattoon and Chicago is approximately 274 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 50 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 26 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)

170

Distance (km)

274

The earliest train departs Mattoon at 3:38 a.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 6:19 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

3:38am

Last train

6:19pm

Trains from Mattoon to Chicago are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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 Saturday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Wednesday

Least crowded

Saturday

City Information

Chicago

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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 Mattoon?

Main departure station: 1718 Broadway Ave

There is one train station in Mattoon.

All train stations in Mattoon:

  • 1718 Broadway Ave

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main arrival 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

Need a return trip from Chicago to Mattoon?

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