Cheap train tickets from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL

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Trip Summary

There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL. Traveling by train from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL usually takes 3 hours and 1 minute, but the fastest Amtrak Lincoln Service train can make the trip in 2 hours and 49 minutes.

Distance
150 mi (241 km)
Fastest train
2h 49m
Lowest price
$18.00
Trains per day
5
Most frequent service
Amtrak Lincoln Service
Train lines
3

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

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Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL Train Schedule

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL (Based on 5 ratings and reviews)

4.2

5.0

Jane

April 6, 2023 - Vacation

Amtrak Lincoln Service
Pros: Comfortable, helpful, timely, save money and hassle of driving. Cons: Nothing Tips: No

4.0

Dieu Linh

September 1, 2022 - Visiting friends

Amtrak Lincoln Service
Pros: spacious Cons: more cleaning things in restroom, sometimes people leave things behind others dont wanna see and with the cleaning stuff it can be easier Tips: take a mask just in case you or other travelers have a heavy cough

4.0

Patricia

October 20, 2021 - Couples trip

Amtrak Lincoln Service
Pros: It was very good to get away for a day with my husband and not need to worry about much! Cons: For us, everything was great! Tips: Not at this time. It was my first time going on Amtrak or any train.

4.0

Rodney

September 10, 2019 - Solo travel

Amtrak Lincoln Service
Pros: The train is always on time and the stations are conveniently located. Good value for a trip and many times to choose from. Cons: Need a way to purchase tickets at the Lincoln station. Does not need to be 24/7 There is someone working in the tourist/visitor center many times during the week. At least kiosk that a ticket can be purchased during the time the center is open. I bought mine through the app on my phone and at other stations. Not everyone has those opinions. Union station in Chicago needs more signs directing ways to the different exits. Perhaps an occasional arrow on the floor with the street name on it. Signs there now are helpful but few and far between. I have been there many times and can navigate easily but there are enough twists and turns to confuse a first time visitor. Tips: Interact with the staff on the train. They are always very friendly and helpful.

What is the price of a train ticket from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL was $30. 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 27 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $37.13 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL by travel date

$75$50$25OctOct

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL will cost between $20 and $68. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL by month

$75$60$45$30$15JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $35. If you're thinking of traveling from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $62 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

$75$60$45$30$1501020

By booking your train trip from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time, you can save about $37.13 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL?

There are 3 train lines with service from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL. Amtrak Lincoln Service is the most popular choice with travelers, offering scheduled service on 3 trains each day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak12h 52m$39.58
Amtrak Lincoln Service32h 54m$30.26
Amtrak Texas Eagle13h 20m$61.23
  • 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 Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $18.

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  • 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.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL

There are 5 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL. You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, IL.

Trains per day

5

Direct trains

5

The distance between Lincoln, IL and Chicago, IL is approximately 150 miles, or 241 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 1 minute, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 49 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)

150

Distance (km)

241

The earliest train departs Lincoln, IL at 6:36am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:46pm. 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

6:36am

Last train

7:46pm

Trains from Lincoln, IL to Chicago, IL are the most crowded on Monday. 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Monday

Least crowded

Tuesday

City Information

Chicago

CHI-0CHI-1CHI-2

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 Lincoln, IL?

Main departure station: 101 N Chicago St

There is one train station in Lincoln, IL.

All train stations in Lincoln, IL:

  • 101 N Chicago St

Where is the train station in Chicago, IL?

Main arrival station: Union Station

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0CHIUST-2

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, IL:

  • Union Station

Need a return trip from Chicago, IL to Lincoln, IL?

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