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Trains from Mattoon to Chicago

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Mattoon - Chicago Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There are 2 daily trains from Mattoon to Chicago. Traveling by train from Mattoon to Chicago usually takes around 3 hours and 38 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 to Chicago

(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.

More

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

In the last month, $20.30 was the average price of a train ticket from Mattoon to Chicago. 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 19 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around $21.92 more than that for a same-day booking.

Average prices by travel date

$30$20$10AugAug

Over the next 30 days, the average cost of a one-way train trip from Mattoon to Chicago will vary between $20 and $23. 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 $20. 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$5SONDJFMAMJJA

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 $19 – the lowest of the year.

Alternatively, if you plan to travel from Mattoon to Chicago in May, 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 19 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Chicago from Mattoon will be about $21.92 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 to Chicago. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak City of New Orleans13h 52m$23.80
Amtrak Saluki13h 29m$24.26
  • Amtrak City of New Orleans

    Amtrak City of New Orleans

    The City of New Orleans is an Amtrak route that runs daily trains from Chicago to New Orleans and vice versa. The City of New Orleans includes a sightseer lounge with panoramic windows for the best views of the five states along the route. Affordable Coach seats cost about for a trip from Mattoon to Chicago. However, the City of New Orleans also offers private roomettes and bedrooms for added comfort and luxury (and a higher price). Passengers who book sleeper accommodations will enjoy included meals, and all passengers can stop into the cafe car to purchase meals and snacks.

  • Amtrak Saluki

    Amtrak Saluki

    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

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.

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.

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 38 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 departing from Mattoon to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Wednesday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Wednesday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Monday as the least number of people tend to travel then.

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.

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 Mattoon?

Main departure station: 1718 Broadway Ave

There is one train station in Mattoon.

All train stations in Mattoon:

  • 1718 Broadway Ave

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main arrival 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

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