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Compare train tickets from Mattoon to Chicago

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Mattoon-Chicago Train Schedule

Train
$22.00
9:31 AM
1718 Broadway Ave
1:00 PM
Union Station - 225 S Canal St
USSLK
4.6stars
0 transfers
Train
$28.00
5:23 AM
1718 Broadway Ave
9:15 AM
Union Station - 225 S Canal St
USCNO
4.6stars
0 transfers
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from$30.00

Trip Summary

There are 2 daily trains from Mattoon to Chicago. Traveling by train from Mattoon to Chicago usually takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Saluki train can make the trip in 3 hours and 29 minutes.

Distance170 mi (274 km)
Fastest train3h 29m
Lowest price$18.00
Trains per day2
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Saluki
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Overall score for trains from Mattoon, IL to Chicago, IL

(Based on 6 ratings and reviews)

4.3

5.0

Diana

November 28, 2019 - Visiting family

Amtrak Illini Service

Pros: Totally enjoyed the whole experience. Cons: Trains running on time. Tips: Bring snacks.

Pros: Totally enjoyed the whole experience. Cons: Trains running on time. Tips: Bring snacks.

1.0

Jay

July 29, 2019 - Couples trip

Amtrak Saluki

Pros: I liked the ease of not driving to Chicago. I also thought the price was fair. I also liked the trip from Chicago to Mattoon. Cons: We waited for an hour only to be told that the train would be at least two hours late due to some malfunction. The Greyhound bus dr...

Pros: I liked the ease of not driving to Chicago. I also thought the price was fair. I also liked the trip from Chicago to Mattoon. Cons: We waited for an hour only to be told that the train would be at least two hours late due to some malfunction. The Greyhound bus driver said we all could hop on the bus. He was super helpful but the bus ride was not what we wanted. We went because we felt we had no other choice but it took much longer than planned, the bathroom was broken, and it was very cramped. Tips: Make sure your train is running and running on time.

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What is the price of a train ticket from Mattoon to Chicago?

In the last month, $18.55 was the average price of a train ticket from Mattoon, IL to Chicago, IL. This is about as inexpensive as train tickets ever get. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 17 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around $7.31 more than that for a same-day booking.

Average prices by travel date

$30$20$10JunJun

Over the next 30 days, the average cost of a one-way train trip from Mattoon to Chicago will vary between $18 and $25. Planning a train trip to Chicago within the upcoming week? The cheapest train ticket you can find from Mattoon over the next 7 days is $18. Make sure to book your trip as soon as possible as train fares tend to go up as you get closer to your travel date.

Monthly average prices

$25$20$15$10$5JASONDJFMAMJ

If you are trying to decide when to travel from Mattoon to Chicago by train so you can score the best possible deal, your best bet would be to plan your trip for August. That’s when the average price for a train ticket is expected to be just $18 – the lowest of the year.

Alternatively, if you plan to travel from Mattoon to Chicago in March, expect to spend more on your train trip, as the average ticket price usually surges to $24 at that time of year. However, if you book your trip ahead of time, you have a high chance of scoring a ticket at a lower price.

Prices as travel date approaches

$50$40$30$20$103020100

If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 17 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Chicago from Mattoon will be about $7.31 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.

Which train should you take from Mattoon to Chicago?

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

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak City of New Orleans13h 52m$21.21
Amtrak Saluki13h 29m$20.02

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel by train from Mattoon to Chicago during the COVID-19 pandemic?

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.

In addition, federal law requires all train passengers to wear a face covering for the entire duration of the trip. Please make sure you are wearing a face mask or you may not be allowed to board the train.

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.

How long is the train journey from Mattoon to Chicago?

The distance between Mattoon and Chicago is approximately 170 miles, or 274 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 40 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 29 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.

When are trains the most crowded?

Trains from Mattoon to Chicago are the most crowded on Tuesday. 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.

When are the first and last trains of the day?

The earliest train departs Mattoon at 5:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 9:00am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

Is there a direct train from Mattoon to Chicago?

Trains leave the station in Mattoon twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Chicago 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 Chicago to Mattoon. If you're not not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Mattoon to Chicago for $57.00.

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.

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 Mattoon?

Departure stations

There is one train station in Mattoon.

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Arrival stations

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.

Related reading

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