Cheap train tickets from Rantoul to Chicago
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Rantoul to Chicago. Traveling by train from Rantoul to Chicago usually takes 2 hours and 21 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 112 mi (180 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 21m |
| Lowest price | $12.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Illini Service |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Rantoul to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Rantoul to Chicago?
There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Rantoul to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$29.50Cheaper | Avg. Price$150.00 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips2 |
Duration | Duration2h 21m | Duration2hFaster |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Rantoul to Chicago (Based on 3 ratings and reviews)
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There are several train options that can take you from Rantoul to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Rantoul to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Rantoul to Chicago was $15.00. 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 26 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $25.00 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Rantoul to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Rantoul to Chicago will cost between $15 and $46. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Rantoul to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Rantoul to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in June when the average ticket price is only $25. If you're thinking of traveling from Rantoul to Chicago during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $40 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Rantoul to Chicago on Wanderu at least 26 days ahead of time, you can save about $25.00 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Rantoul to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Rantoul to Chicago, including Amtrak Illini Service, Amtrak Saluki. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Illini Service | 1 | 2h 21m | $23.98 |
| Amtrak Saluki | 1 | 2h 22m | $35.59 |
Since 1973, Amtrak's Illini Service has provided reliable train transportation to 11 Illinois cities. The Illini operates as an evening commuter train from Chicago to Carbondale, while its sister train, the Amtrak Saluki, runs the morning route. Commuters rely on this service as a safe and convenient transportation option every day. Each train offers WiFi and power outlets, plus a cafe car and business class seating. Illini trains meet the highest federal standard for reducing emissions, with up to 90% less greenhouse gas emissions.
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 about traveling by train from Rantoul to Chicago
Trains leave the station in Rantoul 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 Rantoul. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Rantoul to Chicago for $150.
TRIPS PER DAY
2
DIRECT TRIPS
2
The distance between Rantoul and Chicago is approximately 112 miles, or 180 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 21 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)
112
DISTANCE (KM)
180
The earliest train departs Rantoul at 10:38am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:24pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
10:38am
LATEST TRAIN
7:24pm
Trains from Rantoul to Chicago 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Monday
LEAST CROWDED
Wednesday
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 does the train leave from in Rantoul?
Main departure station: W Sangamon and N Kentucky Aves
There is one train station in Rantoul.
All train stations in Rantoul:
- W Sangamon and N Kentucky Aves
Where does the train arrive in Chicago?
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
Need a return trip from Chicago to Rantoul?
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