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There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Chicago to Springfield. Traveling by train from Chicago to Springfield usually takes 3 hours and 11 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lincoln Service train can make the trip in 3 hours and 5 minutes.
| Distance | 179 mi (288 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 5m |
| Lowest price | $19.00 |
| Trains per day | 5 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lincoln Service |
| Train lines | 3 |
Average score for trains from Chicago to Springfield
(Based on 19 ratings and reviews)
5.0
Pros: The available seating. Cons: Lower prices. Tips: Eat before travel.
5.0
Pros: That traveling was easy and comfortable. Cons: All seats recline. Tips: No.
4.0
Pros: Friendly Staff members. Cons: Maybe Leg room since Im tall. Also, the wifi is not great and cuts out frequently.
Pros: Spacious, clean, courtrous, trip on train. Cons: Can't think of anything.
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Springfield was $25.02. 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 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $30.01 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Springfield will cost between $20 and $57. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Springfield often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only$31,
If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Springfield during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $102 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Springfield on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $30.01 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
There are 3 train lines with service from Chicago to Springfield. Amtrak Lincoln Service is the most popular choice with travelers, offering scheduled service on 3 trains each day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 3h 11m | $34.08 |
| Amtrak Lincoln Service | 3 | 3h 10m | $26.44 |
| Amtrak Texas Eagle | 1 | 3h 17m | $55.17 |
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 Springfield every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $19.
Amtrak Lincoln Service is part of Amtrak's Illinois Service, providing rail transportation throughout Illinois. The Lincoln Service travels 284 miles between St. Louis and Chicago with nine intermediate stops. Amtrak Lincoln trains offer WiFi connectivity, power outlets, business class seating, and a cafe car to ensure passengers have the most comfortable journey possible.
Amtrak Texas Eagle train tickets from Chicago to Springfield start from $19, and on average cost . Daily there are 1 Amtrak Texas Eagle schedules to Springfield. Amtrak Texas Eagle in Chicago leaves from Union Station . And in Springfield trains arrive at 100 N Third St .
From Chicago to Springfield train travel on Amtrak Texas Eagle takes 3 hours and 17 minutes. If you are looking to get to Springfield faster, Amtrak Texas Eagle offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 3 hours and 5 minutes.
If you're considering a weeked trip, Amtrak Texas Eagle offers 2 schedules for you to choose from. You can expect to pay for a one-way train ticket to Springfield.
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
The distance between Chicago and Springfield is approximately 179 miles, or 288 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 11 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 5 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.
Trains from Chicago to Springfield 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 Sunday 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 7:00pm. 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 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Chicago to Springfield.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Springfield to 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.
Image credit: Thank You (22.5 Millions+) views
Link to image attributionThere are 34 cities in America called Springfield, but the state capital of Illinois is one of the most well-known. Beyond Springfield's political clout as a state capital, it is known for being the home of Abraham Lincoln for many years, plus the site of his final resting place. While in town, you can visit President Lincoln's restored home, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and the Lincoln Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery. An enormous bronze bust of Lincoln outside his tomb features a nose as shiny as a new penny, rubbed by scores of visitors who consider it good luck.
Springfield is one of the state's best destinations thanks to more than just history. Check out the incredible artistry on display in the capitol building's stained glass windows, or discover the dogwoods lining 5 miles of trails in the Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center. Not to mention Springfield's bustling craft beer scene; hit up the city's microbreweries, nano breweries, and craft beer companies like the famous Springfield Beer Company.
It should be no surprise that one of the primary transportation methods to Springfield is called the Lincoln Service. This Amtrak train route stops in Springfield on its way from Chicago to St. Louis, and so does the Amtrak Texas Eagle from San Antonio to Chicago. Amtrak Thruway buses run from Springfield to Peoria, where travelers can connect to further bus destinations.
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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.
Union Station
Springfield has one train station.
100 N Third St
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