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Chicago to Galesburg train

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Chicago - Galesburg Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Chicago to Galesburg. Traveling by train from Chicago to Galesburg usually takes 3 hours and 22 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 2 hours and 33 minutes.

Distance156 mi (251 km)
Fastest train2h 33m
Lowest priceCA$24.58
Trains per day4
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Carl Sandburg
Train lines5

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Galesburg

(Based on 12 ratings and reviews)

4.8

4.0

Zeeya

July 6, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Carl Sandburg

Pros: Smooth and in time journey. Cons: N/A.

4.0

Jenna Lynn

February 6, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Illinois Zephyr

Pros: I did not have to drive myself to Chicago. Cons: In Chicago when boarding they didn’t assign a seat. In Galesburg when boarding they did. A little confusing. Tips: Sit back and enjoy.

5.0

Michael

June 30, 2022- Solo travel

Amtrak Illinois Zephyr

Pros: Very comfortable. Cons: N/A. Tips: No.

5.0

David

January 9, 2022- Vacation

Amtrak Illinois Zephyr

Pros: I like that i arrived on time and passengers was loud nor rude. Cons: N/A. Tips: Be respectful to other passengers and train staff and be patient.

5.0

Willie

November 23, 2021- Solo travel

Amtrak California Zephyr

Pros: Things were on time. Cons: Bathroom cleanliness.

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

In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Chicago to Galesburg was CA$52.64. At this price, taking the train is the cheap and easy way to go. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Galesburg if you book your train tickets at least 29 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra CA$15.55.

Average prices by travel date

CA$82CA$55CA$27AprMay

The average cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Galesburg is expected to fluctuate between CA$49 and CA$70 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to Galesburg in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Chicago is CA$49.

Monthly avg. prices

CA$102CA$82CA$61CA$41CA$20MJJASONDJFMA
You can find the lowest prices on this route during February. This time of year offers the best deals on train tickets from Chicago to Galesburg, with the average price at just CA$51. Train tickets on this route are most expensive in August, when the average price goes up to CA$87. You can still score cheap deals below this average price, though, especially if you plan ahead and book your ticket in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

CA$102CA$82CA$61CA$41CA$203020100

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Galesburg on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about CA$15.55 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Galesburg?

There are 5 train lines with service from Chicago to Galesburg. There is only one daily train on each service.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak16h 15mCA$75.33
Amtrak California Zephyr12h 43mCA$86.40
Amtrak Carl Sandburg12h 41mCA$32.11
Amtrak Illinois Zephyr12h 46mCA$38.87
Amtrak Southwest Chief12h 34mCA$54.52

  • 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 Chicago to Galesburg every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from CA$66.

  • Amtrak California Zephyr is one of the longest train routes in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Emeryville. With views of the Colorado and Mississippi rivers, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rockies, it highlights some of the most stunning views the US has.

  • The Amtrak Carl Sandburg, named after the Pulitzer-winning author, is a sister service to the Illinois Zephyr. Both operate daily services between Chicago and Quincy with additional stops in Naperville and Kewanee. Whether you buy a coach class or business class ticket, you'll have plenty of legroom and complimentary WiFi, plus access to refreshments at the onboard cafe.

  • The Illinois Zephyr is a passenger train operated by Amtrak, running between Quincy and Chicago. Taking the train from Chicago to Galesburg is a comfortable option, and tickets on this route cost on average. The Illinois Zephyr and its sister train, the Carl Sandburg, serve one of Amtrak's most popular lines. The train features amenities such as airline-style coach seating, a cafe on board, power outlets, restrooms, and Wi-Fi.

  • 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 Chicago to Galesburg in about 2 hours and 34 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

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Galesburg. 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 Galesburg is approximately 156 miles, or 251 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 22 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 33 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.

Trains from Chicago to Galesburg are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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.

The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 5:00pm. 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 5 scheduled trains on most days. 4 of these are direct connections to Galesburg. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Galesburg 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.

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 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 Galesburg?

Main arrival station: 225 S Seminary St

Galesburg has one train station.

All train stations in Galesburg:

  • 225 S Seminary St

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