Trains from Champaign to Normal
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Champaign to Normal. Traveling by train from Champaign to Normal usually takes around 6 hours and 15 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 3 hours and 57 minutes.
| Distance | 48 mi (77 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 57m |
| Lowest price | €22.48 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Champaign to Normal?
In the last month, €30.61 was the average price of a train ticket from Champaign to Normal. This is a good price that is inexpensive compared to most train fares. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 25 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around €9.57 more than that for a same-day booking.
Monthly average prices
If you are trying to decide when to travel from Champaign to Normal by train so you can score the best possible deal, your best bet would be to plan your trip for April. That’s when the average price for a train ticket is expected to be just €34 – the lowest of the year.
Alternatively, if you plan to travel from Champaign to Normal in May, expect to spend more on your train trip, as the average ticket price usually surges to €62 at that time of year. However, if you book your trip ahead of time, you have a high chance of scoring a ticket at a lower price.
Prices as travel date approaches
If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 25 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Normal from Champaign will be about €9.57 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Champaign to Normal?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Champaign to Normal. 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 | 1 | 6h 15m | €39.96 |
Amtrak
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 1 Amtrak trains from Champaign to Normal every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €22.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel by train from Champaign to Normal during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
Can you take a train all the way from Champaign to Normal?
How long is the train journey from Champaign to Normal?
The distance between Champaign and Normal is approximately 48 miles, or 77 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 15 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.
When are trains the most crowded?
Trains from Champaign to Normal 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
When are the first and last trains of the day?
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Champaign at 03:00 and arrives in Normal around 3 hours later.
Is there a direct train from Champaign to Normal?
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. 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 transfer 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 Normal to Champaign.
City Information
Champaign
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Pixabay
A significant hub for the Silicone Prairie, Champaign is a stunning city with many exciting landmarks to visit. The downtown area of Champaign is perhaps its busiest area, with over 40 different bars, art galleries, and boutique shops for you to enjoy. To enjoy arthouse films or independent productions, head over to the Art Theater, which also hosts special screenings. The campustown area near the University of Illinois hosts not only cheap eateries but also fine dining spots. The area tends to get crowded at night since students will be out on the street to enjoy the hopping nightlife.
As a busy college town, Champaign naturally has a very vibrant food scene with many excellent dining options. Radio Maria is a unique Spanish establishment with very colorful Spanish decorations and amazing tapas dishes. Those who want something more exotic and exciting could check out DESTIHL, which offers unique home-cooked dishes and great artisan beers.
The Illinois Terminal is Champaign's primary bus and train station, served by Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines, Peoria Charter, and Greyhound. From Champaign, you can continue your journey and visit some of the other top destinations in Illinois.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Champaign?
Main departure station: 401 S Illinois Ave
Because some trains make multiple stops before leaving the city, there are 7 stops and stations in Champaign where you can board the train.
All train stations in Champaign:
401 S Illinois Ave
Central Station - 545 S Main St
401 W National Ave
110 South Oak St
W Broadway & N Water St
1718 Broadway Ave
300 W Capitol St
Need a return trip from Normal to Champaign?
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