Cheap train tickets from Champaign to Denver
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Champaign to Denver. Traveling by train from Champaign to Denver usually takes 26 hours and 46 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 25 hours and 6 minutes.
- Distance
- 886 mi (1427 km)
- Fastest train
- 25h 6m
- Lowest price
- $302.00
- Trains per day
- 0
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 1
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Champaign to Denver Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Champaign to Denver?
There are usually 3 daily bus trips available from Champaign to Denver.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$305.50 | Avg. Price$171.35Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips3 |
Duration | Duration26h 46m | Duration24h 36mFaster |

There are several train options that can take you from Champaign to Denver:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Champaign to Denver?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Champaign to Denver was $308.00. Considering the distance between Champaign and Denver, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 2 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $18.50 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Champaign to Denver by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Champaign to Denver will cost between $156 and $261. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Champaign to Denver by month
Ticket prices for the train from Champaign to Denver often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $173. If you're thinking of traveling from Champaign to Denver during May, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $407 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in May, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Champaign to Denver on Wanderu at least 2 days ahead of time, you can save about $18.50 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Champaign to Denver?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Champaign to Denver. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 26h 46m | $305.50 |
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Champaign to Denver
Trains leave the station in Champaign 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 Denver to Champaign. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Champaign to Denver for $101.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
0
The distance between Champaign and Denver is approximately 886 miles, or 1427 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 26 hours and 46 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 25 hours and 6 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)
886
Distance (km)
1427
The earliest train departs Champaign at 4:30am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:50am. 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
4:30am
Last train
7:50am
Trains from Champaign to Denver are the most crowded on Monday. 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Monday
Least crowded
Monday
City Information
Champaign



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, and Greyhound. From Champaign, you can continue your journey and visit some of the other top destinations in Illinois.
Denver



Denver is the capital of Colorado, as well as the most populous city in the state. With buildings dating back to the 19th century, Denver is considered one of the most exemplary cities of the Old West era in the United States.
Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it a preferred destination for young travelers seeking the thrill of the slopes during the day and the vibrant nightlife activities only an urban setting can provide. In fact, Denver is among the biggest party cities in the U.S. and one of the craft beer capitals in the country. In addition, thanks to the diverse local crowd, Denver’s restaurant scene offers top-notch options from various world cuisines.
If you’re looking for a more quiet time during your stay, head to one of the many unique museums in town such as the Denver Art Museum, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Arts, or the Molly Brown House Museum. Craving a feast to the eyes and some fresh air? Check out the spectacular Denver Botanic Gardens.
As the biggest city in the Mountain states and a top Colorado destination, Denver is a busy travel hub. Even though the Denver airport is on the city’s outskirts, it is still easily accessible. If you are traveling to Denver by bus or train, you’ll be conveniently dropped off at Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver from where you can easily get anywhere in the city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Champaign?
Main departure station: Illinois Term - 45 E University Ave

The Illinois Terminal is located at 45 East University Avenue in Champaign. The transport center opened in 1999, and now provides bus and train service in the Champaign-Urbana area. The terminal is served by Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound, Jefferson Lines, and local mass transit. Make sure to wait in the correct station building; Champaign’s old train station, dating to 1898, is just across the street. The Illinois Terminal offers short-term parking, fast food, and even meeting spaces and banquet halls. Thanks to the station’s convenient location, some of the best restaurants and bars in downtown Champaign are just a short walk away.
All train stations in Champaign:
- Illinois Term - 45 E University Ave
Where is the train station in Denver?
Main arrival station: Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street

Denver’s Union Station first opened in 1881, and houses some of the city’s best shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. There is even a seasonal farmers market at the station! But first and foremost, Union Station is the primary transport hub for Denver. The station is served by Amtrak trains, and intercity buses operated by Greyhound, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines and Express Arrow. From Union Station, travelers can also easily access Denver International Airport on the A Line commuter rail.
All train stations in Denver:
- Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street
Need a return trip from Denver to Champaign?
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