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: RON 55.41
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 bus or train from Chicago to Rantoul?

There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Rantoul.

	Train	Bus
Avg. Price	Avg. PriceRON 144.10Cheaper	Avg. PriceRON 692.56
Daily Trips	Daily Trips2	Daily Trips2
Duration	Duration2h 3m	Duration1h 47mFaster

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Rantoul (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)

4.0

Rennard

May 21, 2026 - Solo travel

Amtrak Illini Service

Pros: The peace and quiet Cons: Prices are always a bit high Tips: Book ahead of the date you’re planning to travel on

4.0

Rennard

October 14, 2023 - Visiting friends

Amtrak Illini Service

Pros: That all the staff was helpful and friendly Cons: The price is too high at times Tips: Book as early as you can

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Rantoul:

See more details

What 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 RON 92.34. 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 26 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around RON 120.04 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 RON 92 and RON 212. 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 RON 106. 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 RON 152 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 26 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 120.04 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Rantoul?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Rantoul. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak Illini Service	1	2h 3m	RON 145.99
Amtrak Saluki	1	2h 4m	RON 142.09

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 RON 693.

Trains per day

Direct trains

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.

First train

8:15am

Last 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.

Busiest

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 is the train station 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 is the train station 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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