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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Galesburg to La Plata. Traveling by train from Galesburg to La Plata usually takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 128 mi (207 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 11m |
| Lowest price | £33.79 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Southwest Chief |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Galesburg to La Plata?
Amtrak Southwest Chief is the one and only train line which connects Galesburg to La Plata. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 2h 11m | £33.79 |
The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Galesburg to La Plata in about 2 hours and 11 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trains from Galesburg to La Plata are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 traveling on Saturday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Galesburg at 17:00 and arrives in La Plata around 2 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to La Plata with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from La Plata 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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Galesburg?
Main departure station: 225 S Seminary St
There is one train station in Galesburg.
All train stations in Galesburg:
225 S Seminary St
Where is the train station in La Plata?
Main arrival station: 535 N Owensby St
La Plata has one train station.
Train stations in La Plata:
535 N Owensby St
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