5.0
Pros: I loved everything about the trip. First time train rider and I had no issues at all. Cons: Nothing keep going the way your going!
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Trip Summary
You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Chicago and Springfield. The average train journey from Chicago to Springfield takes 23 hours and 38 minutes, but some Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train trips are as short as 19 hours and 19 minutes.
| Distance | 772 mi (1242 km) |
| Fastest train | 19h 19m |
| Lowest price | €83.93 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Springfield
(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Springfield?
The average price for a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Springfield, MA is €194.73, The lengthy distance traveled between Chicago and Springfield often means relatively more expensive train tickets. By booking your trip at least 23 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay €195.58 more.
Average prices by travel date
For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Chicago to Springfield will range from €181 to €262. If you're planning to travel by train to Springfield in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Chicago you can find in the next 7 days is €189. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.
Monthly avg. prices
Mark your calendar for February if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Springfield. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of €164. If you're planning a trip from Chicago to Springfield during September, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about €239 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.
Prices as travel date approaches
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Chicago to Springfield. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 23 days before departure, you can save around €195.58. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Springfield?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Springfield. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 1d 2h 23m | €270.03 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 1 | 19h 19m | €144.54 |
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 Springfield every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €160.
The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from Chicago (Union Station), Illinois in Chicago and arrives at Union Station Transportation Center in Springfield. The route takes about 19 hours and 19 minutes and ticket prices start at €84.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chicago and Springfield is approximately 772 miles, or 1242 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 23 hours and 38 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 19 hours and 19 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 Friday. 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 6:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 9:00pm. 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 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Springfield. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Springfield 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.
Springfield
Image credit: Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos
Link to image attributionFounded in 1636 as the first Springfield in North America, this city sits on the eastern bank of the Connecticut River in Massachusetts. Perhaps best known as the birthplace of basketball, Springfield is a mecca for b-ball fans. Visitors can enjoy three levels of exhibits and interactive contests at the famous Basketball Hall of Fame.
Along with basketball, Springfield was also the birthplace of the immensely popular children's author, Theodore Geisel—more commonly known as Dr. Seuss. Enjoy a walk through the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden to see many of his most famous characters immortalized in bronze. History buffs should head to the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, highlighting the town's important role as an arsenal during the Revolutionary War.
Springfield's central location between major tourist destinations like NYC, Boston, and the Berkshires means that it can be reached easily by most modes of transport. The city is served by several Amtrak lines and Peter Pan and Greyhound buses. Bradley International Airport and Westover Metropolitan Airport are also closeby, with frequent flights from destinations around the country.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
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 Springfield?
Image credit: Katherine Johnson
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Union Station Transportation Center
Union Station is an iconic landmark in Springfield that just finished renovations in 2016- meaning you get the historic charm plus modern AC. Original features include the impressive entrance clock, wooden train schedule, and terrazzo flooring. You may stop at Union Station on Amtrak or Northeast Regional. Or, if you're commuting locally, you may transfer to the CTrail Hartford Line. Greyhound and Peter Pan provide bus services to the area as well, with connections across New England. Since the station operates with so many carriers, the waiting area has plenty of space and seating, ticket kiosks, and plenty of snack options like Dunkin Donuts and Subway.
All train stations in Springfield:
Union Station Transportation Center
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