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Trip Summary
You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Lancaster and Champaign. The average train journey from Lancaster to Champaign takes 32 hours and 45 minutes, but some Amtrak train trips are as short as 29 hours and 44 minutes.
Distance | 631 mi (1015 km) |
Fastest train | 29h 44m |
Lowest price | $221.00 |
Most frequent service | Amtrak |
Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Lancaster to Champaign?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Lancaster to Champaign. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.
Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
---|---|---|---|
Amtrak | 3 | 1d 8h 45m | $223.67 |
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 3 Amtrak trains from Lancaster to Champaign every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $221.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Lancaster and Champaign is approximately 631 miles, or 1015 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 32 hours and 45 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 29 hours and 44 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 Lancaster to Champaign are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 Saturday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Lancaster at 8:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 1:00pm. 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. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Champaign to Lancaster.
City Information
Lancaster
Lancaster is a city in the Piedmont Region, between Baltimore and Philadelphia, primarily known for being a hub of Pennsylvania's Amish Country. One of Lancaster's most popular attractions is the Central Market, housed in an impressive structure built in 1889. Here, you can shop from over 60 vendors and sample their fresh fruits, cheeses, or baked treats and purchase handmade Amish goods unique to the area.
Lancaster also features a growing art scene, and Gallery Row downtown hosts some of the town's best boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops. The Demuth Museum and Lancaster Museum of Art offer additional venues for culture vultures to check out. If you're visiting with kids, don't miss Dutch Wonderland just outside of town; this royal theme park includes 32 rides and activities catering to young children.
Lancaster features a vibrant food scene with plenty of selections and cuisines for even the most discerning foodies. Some local favorites include C'est La Vie, The Brasserie Restaurant & Bar, and Shot & Bottle.
Amtrak Pennsylvanian and Keystone Service trains stop in Lancaster and connect the town with Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and New York. OurBus offers intercity bus routes to Lancaster, as well. The nearest airport for passenger flights is in Philadelphia, about 60 miles away or just an hour on the train.
Champaign
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Pixabay
A significant hub for the Silicone Prairie, Champaign is a stunning city with many exciting landmarks to visit. The downtown area of Champaign is perhaps its busiest area, with over 40 different bars, art galleries, and boutique shops for you to enjoy. To enjoy arthouse films or independent productions, head over to the Art Theater, which also hosts special screenings. The campustown area near the University of Illinois hosts not only cheap eateries but also fine dining spots. The area tends to get crowded at night since students will be out on the street to enjoy the hopping nightlife.
As a busy college town, Champaign naturally has a very vibrant food scene with many excellent dining options. Radio Maria is a unique Spanish establishment with very colorful Spanish decorations and amazing tapas dishes. Those who want something more exotic and exciting could check out DESTIHL, which offers unique home-cooked dishes and great artisan beers.
The Illinois Terminal is Champaign's primary bus and train station, served by Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines, and Greyhound. From Champaign, you can continue your journey and visit some of the other top destinations in Illinois.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Lancaster?
Main departure station: 53 E Mcgovern Ave
There is one train station in Lancaster.
All train stations in Lancaster:
53 E Mcgovern Ave
Where is the train station in Champaign?
Image credit: Beyond My Ken
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Illinois Term - 45 E University Ave
The Illinois Terminal is located at 45 East University Avenue in Champaign. The transport center opened in 1999, and now provides bus and train service in the Champaign-Urbana area. The terminal is served by Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound, Jefferson Lines, and local mass transit. Make sure to wait in the correct station building; Champaign’s old train station, dating to 1898, is just across the street. The Illinois Terminal offers short-term parking, fast food, and even meeting spaces and banquet halls. Thanks to the station’s convenient location, some of the best restaurants and bars in downtown Champaign are just a short walk away.
All train stations in Champaign:
Illinois Term - 45 E University Ave
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- Lancaster to Champaign