Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Rantoul
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Rantoul. Traveling by train from Chicago to Rantoul usually takes 2 hours and 3 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 112 mi (180 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 3m |
| Lowest price | $12.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Illini Service |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Rantoul Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Rantoul?
There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Rantoul.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$23.89Cheaper | Avg. Price$150.00 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips2 |
Duration | Duration2h 3m | Duration1h 48mFaster |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Rantoul (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
4.0
4.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Rantoul:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Rantoul?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Rantoul was $20.42. This is basically as cheap as train fares can get. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 14 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $9.96 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Rantoul by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Rantoul will cost between $14 and $39. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Rantoul by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Rantoul often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in June when the average ticket price is only $23. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Rantoul during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $33 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Rantoul on Wanderu at least 14 days ahead of time, you can save about $9.96 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Rantoul?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Rantoul, including Amtrak Illini Service, Amtrak Saluki. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Illini Service | 1 | 2h 3m | $26.25 |
| Amtrak Saluki | 1 | 2h 4m | $21.50 |
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 about traveling by train from Chicago to Rantoul
Trains leave the station in Chicago twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Rantoul with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains. You can also take a train for your return trip from Rantoul to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Rantoul for $150.
TRIPS PER DAY
2
DIRECT TRIPS
2
The distance between Chicago and Rantoul is approximately 112 miles, or 180 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 3 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.
DISTANCE (MI)
112
DISTANCE (KM)
180
The earliest train departs Chicago at 8:15am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:05pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
8:15am
LATEST TRAIN
4:05pm
Trains from Chicago to Rantoul are the most crowded on Thursday. 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Thursday
LEAST CROWDED
Wednesday
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 does the train leave from in Chicago?
Main departure station: Union Station
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:
- Union Station
Where does the train arrive in Rantoul?
Main arrival station: W Sangamon and N Kentucky Aves
Rantoul has one train station.
All train stations in Rantoul:
- W Sangamon and N Kentucky Aves
Need a return trip from Rantoul to Chicago?
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