Train from Chicago to Champaign: Tickets & Timetables

Next train departures

Next departures from Chicago to Champaign on 12 December
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Illinois Terminal - Champaign Intermodal Transportation CenterCheapest
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Illinois Terminal - Champaign Intermodal Transportation CenterFastest
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Illinois Terminal - Champaign Intermodal Transportation CenterNo tags
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Illinois Terminal - Champaign Intermodal Transportation CenterNo tags
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Illinois Terminal - Champaign Intermodal Transportation CenterNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Today at 5:08 PM CST.

Compare 2 ways to travel from Chicago to Champaign

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the train stands out as a good way to reach Champaign. The journey takes about 2 hours 31 minutes and with fares starting at just R 243, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

3train per day
2h 31mAverage duration
203 kmDistance
18kgCO₂ emissions
Bus
Average priceR 243 - R 3 365Average duration2h 35m
5kg CO₂e
Train
Average priceR 243 - R 3 333Average duration2h 31m
18kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Chicago to Champaign by train

Please note that timetables, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or differ at the time of your trip.

  1. How much is the train ticket from Chicago to Champaign?

    The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Champaign start from R 243. The average price for this train route is around R 416. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for a better chance to secure the lowest possible price.

  2. How long is the train journey from Chicago to Champaign?

    The average train journey time from Chicago to Champaign is 2h 31m, covering a distance of 203 km. The quickest train can get you there in 2h 24m and is operated by Amtrak.

  3. Which train operators serve the Chicago to Champaign route?

    Several major train operators run on this route, with 3 trains available per day.

  4. What are the earliest and latest departure times for the train from Chicago to Champaign?

    The earliest train from Chicago to Champaign departs at 08:15. And the latest train departs at 20:05.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found
09/12
R 312
10/12
R 208
Today
R 260
12/12
R 467
13/12
R 381
14/12
R 571
15/12
R 467
16/12
R 312
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Chicago to Champaign was searched and found on 10 Dec 2025 with a price of R 208

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Chicago to Champaign as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from R 208 to R 2 456 for a train ticket from Chicago to Champaign based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 312, which is on 2025-12-16.

What's the cheapest way to go from Chicago to Champaign?

busbud logoThe train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

The best way to travel between Chicago and Champaign is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost R 416 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from R 243. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Champaign, choose the train, as it will take you from Chicago to Champaign in about 2h 31m – that's the fastest way to get there!

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