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Chicago to Effingham train

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Chicago - Effingham Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

3 trains operate daily from Chicago to Effingham. The train trip from Chicago to Effingham is usually about 3 hours and 38 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak City of New Orleans train can get you there in as little as 3 hours and 31 minutes.

Distance197 mi (316 km)
Fastest train3h 31m
Lowest price$15.00
Trains per day3
Most frequent serviceAmtrak City of New Orleans
Train lines4

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Effingham

(Based on 5 ratings and reviews)

5.0

5.0

Gennie May

April 2, 2024- Visiting family

Amtrak Illini Service

Pros: The train attendant was very nice and helpful they informed quickly for the destination station. Cons: I wish they put monitor in every station just like the bullet train in Japan. Tips: Don’t hesitate to travel using Amtrak it’s a great experience.

5.0

Sara

September 19, 2022- Visiting friends

Amtrak Illini Service

Pros: I loved the cleanliness, helpful staff, the food and drink options, and the quick trip. Cons: The bathrooms could use an update.

5.0

Thomas

December 29, 2019- Vacation

Amtrak Saluki

It was very convenient dropped us close to our hotel. Couldn't beat the price for the convenience.

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

In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Chicago to Effingham was $26.17. This is a fantastic deal for train travel. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Effingham if you book your train tickets at least 27 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $19.91.

Average prices by travel date

$45$30$15AprMay

For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Effingham will range from $23 to $39. If you're planning to travel by train to Effingham in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Chicago you can find in the next 7 days is $23. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.

Monthly average prices

$50$40$30$20$10MJJASONDJFMA
Mark your calendar for January if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Effingham. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of $27. If you're planning a trip from Chicago to Effingham during November, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about $36 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.

Prices as travel date approaches

$50$40$30$20$103020100

If you're looking to save on your train trip from Chicago to Effingham, book online with Wanderu at least 27 days in advance. That way, you’ll save $19.91 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from Chicago to Effingham?

There are 4 train lines with service from Chicago to Effingham. There is only one daily train on each service.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak23h 42m$19.07
Amtrak City of New Orleans13h 32m$28.73
Amtrak Illini Service13h 42m$34.71
Amtrak Saluki13h 41m$30.32

  • 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 Chicago to Effingham every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $15.

  • 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 for a trip from Chicago to Effingham. 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 kilometers of railroad, 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

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Effingham. 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.

The distance between Chicago and Effingham is approximately 197 miles, or 316 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 38 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 31 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 Chicago to Effingham on Thursday. Tickets for Thursday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Monday. Monday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Chicago at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

There are 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Chicago to Effingham.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Effingham to Chicago.

City Information

Chicago

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 neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, 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 Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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:

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

Where is the train station in Effingham?

Main arrival station: 401 W National Ave

Effingham has one train station.

All train stations in Effingham:

  • 401 W National Ave

Get around town with Moovit

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