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Trip Summary
You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Galesburg and Peoria. The average train journey from Galesburg to Peoria takes 11 hours and 5 minutes, but some Amtrak train trips are as short as 6 hours and 32 minutes.
| Distance | 45 mi (72 km) |
| Fastest train | 6h 32m |
| Lowest price | £85.29 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Galesburg to Peoria?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Galesburg to Peoria. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 11h 5m | £113.45 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad 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 restroom, 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 Galesburg to Peoria every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from £85.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Galesburg and Peoria is approximately 45 miles, or 72 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 11 hours and 5 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 32 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.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Galesburg to Peoria on Friday. Tickets for Friday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Thursday. Thursday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Galesburg at 07:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 07:00. 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 Galesburg twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you change trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Peoria to Galesburg.
City Information
Galesburg
Galesburg is best known as the birthplace of writer and poet Carl Sandburg, with the Carl Sandburg State Historic Site erected in his honor. If you love the look of Carl’s boyhood cottage, you can stay in a historic home of your own – several, including the Great House of Galesburg, have been converted into charming bed-and-breakfasts across town.
Galesburg is also known for its historic involvement in the local railroad system, notably connecting Illinois’ largest (at the time) cities, Chicago and Quincy. In fact, the Galesburg Railroad Museum functions solely to preserve and share the history of the railroad industry in Galesburg and Western Illinois. The city even holds an annual festival, the Galesburg Railroad Days, complete with rides, live music, and open-air markets to celebrate the city’s railroad roots. And it’s not just literal railroads– Galesburg was originally founded by abolitionists and became a critical stop to freedom in the Underground Railroad.
Galesburg remains a major railway hub, acting as one of the stops for some of Amtrak’s most popular lines. The Carl Sandburg, Illinois Zephyr, and Southwest Chief all operate daily to connect Galesburg west to Chicago. Meanwhile, the California Zephyr reaches all the way to Los Angeles. Galesburg also has two main bus stations for Greyhound and Burlington Trailways. These carriers provide coverage to Denver, St. Louis, and Moline, which has the closest airport to Galesburg, Quad Cities Airport.
Peoria
Located on the Illinois River, Peoria is one of the best vacation destinations in Illinois. Peoria's irresistible midwestern charm, history, and unique attractions make it a must-see city when in the area.
To learn more about what attracted the late 17th-century French settlers to the area, visit the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Planetarium. Exhibitions here vary yearly, emphasising local history, natural history, art, and science, with many interactive exhibits for the kids to enjoy.
Take a stroll through Luthy Botanical Garden on a sunny day and enjoy the magnificent conservatory full of orchids and tropical plants. Peoria Zoo offers over 100 different animal species from all over the world. The zoo is open year-round, with many seasonal events throughout the year.
And bring your dancing shoes because Peoria also hosts a vibrant nightlife scene, from live music shows to performing arts events.
Peoria's central location makes it easy to reach. Peoria International Airport provides daily flights from several major cities. Peoria's Amtrak station offers access to various major cities, with trains arriving regularly. Jefferson Lines, Burlington Trailways, and Amtrak Thruway coaches provide affordable transport in and out of the city, too.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Galesburg?
Main departure station: Union Station - 30 W Pershing Rd
Union Station in Kansas City is a grand, historic station dating back to 1914 with an imposing columned facade and intricately carved coffered ceilings. The station is truly a destination in itself, where you can explore a series of museums, a planetarium, a 3D theater, and upscale dining options. Train service still runs through Union Station, though, and you can catch the Missouri River Runner to St. Louis or the Southwest Chief to Chicago or Los Angeles. Paid parking, restrooms, and a mothers’ nursing room can be found at the station. Just steps outside are some of the highlights of Kansas City, from Legoland Discovery Center to Penn Valley Park’s various memorials and museums.
All train stations in Galesburg:
Union Station - 30 W Pershing Rd
Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street
Where is the train station in Peoria?
Image credit: David Wilson
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: City Link Transit Ctr - 407 SW Adams St
The CityLink Transit Center coach Station is a large, covered coach depot in downtown Peoria, right at the start of the Illinois River. Coaches stop here en route to Urbana-Champaign and Normal, with connections across Illinois. There are indoor seats at the coach terminal, plus plenty of restaurants and cafes within easy walking distance. The Peoria Mariott and Staybridge Suites both have plenty of rooms if you're staying in the city.
Train stations in Peoria:
City Link Transit Ctr - 407 SW Adams St
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Need a return trip from Peoria to Galesburg?
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