Traveling between Springfield, Illinois, and Chicago is convenient and comfortable with Amtrak. Whether you’re commuting for business or leisure, Amtrak offers a reliable and scenic way to reach your destination. In this page, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Amtrak Springfield to Chicago, including schedules, stops, ticket prices, and more.
Amtrak Springfield to Chicago Routes Overview
Amtrak Springfield to Chicago routes, including key details like schedules, stops, and travel times:
| Feature | Lincoln Service | Texas Eagle | Missouri River Runner Connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route Type | Dedicated Midwest corridor service | Long-distance (Chicago-San Antonio/LA) | Connecting service via St. Louis |
| Frequency | 5-6 daily departures | 1 daily (if operating) | 2-3 daily to STL + connections |
| Avg. Travel Time | 3 hours 35 min – 4 hours 25 min | 4 hours 30 min – 5 hours 30 min | 6+ hours (with transfer in STL) |
| Typical Departures | 6:45AM, 8:25AM, 12:45PM, 3:45PM, 5:45PM | 1:35PM (subject to change) | Varies by connection |
| Seating Options | Coach & Business Class | Coach only | Coach only |
| Onboard Amenities | Free WiFi, café car, power outlets | Café car, power outlets | Basic amenities |
| Baggage Policy | 2 carry-ons + 2 checked (50 lbs each) | Same as Lincoln Service | Same as Lincoln Service |
| Major Stops | Normal, Joliet, Summit | Alton, Bloomington-Normal, Joliet | St. Louis (transfer point) |
| Best For | Fastest direct option | Flexible timing/long-distance trips | When direct trains are unavailable |
| Ticket Price Range | $20-$40 (Coach), $50-$90 (Business) | $25-$50 (Coach) | $30-$60 (combined) |
| Pets Allowed | Yes ($29 fee) | Yes ($29 fee) | Yes ($29 fee) |
| Accessibility | Fully ADA compliant | Fully ADA compliant | Fully ADA compliant |
Amtrak Springfield to Chicago Routes
This route is primarily served by Amtrak’s Lincoln Service and Texas Eagle, offering a comfortable and efficient journey2.
| Route | Train Name | Frequency | Travel Time | Key Stops | Onboard Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Service | Lincoln Service | Multiple daily (4-5 trains) | 3.5 – 4 hours | Springfield (SPI) Lincoln (LCN) – Bloomington-Normal (BNL) Joliet (JOL) Chicago (CHI) | Free Wi-Fi Café Car Power Outlets Business Class (upgrade available) |
| Texas Eagle | Texas Eagle (Train #21/321) | Once daily | 4 hours | Springfield (SPI) Lincoln (LCN) – Bloomington-Normal (BNL) Joliet (JOL) Chicago (CHI) | Café Car Checked Baggage Sleeper Cabins (long-distance) Power Outlets |
Routes of Amtrak Springfield to Chicago
Amtrak offers convenient and comfortable rail service between Springfiel to Chicago:
| Route | Train Name(s) | Daily Departures | Travel Time | Major Stops | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Route | Lincoln Service (Trains #300, #302, #304, #306, #308) | 5–6 daily | 3.5–4.5 hours | Normal, IL Joliet, IL Summit, IL | Fastest option, free Wi-Fi, café car |
| Long-Distance Route | Texas Eagle (Train #21/421) | 1 daily (if operating) | 4.5–5.5 hours | Alton, IL – Bloomington-Normal, IL Joliet, IL | Less frequent, part of Chicago–San Antonio/Los Angeles route |
| Connecting Route (via STL) | Missouri River Runner (SPI→STL) + Lincoln Service (STL→CHI) | Varies | 6+ hours | St. Louis, MO (transfer) | Only if direct trains are unavailable |
Amtrak Springfield to Chicago Schedule
The Amtrak Springfield to Chicago schedule offers multiple daily departures, making it a convenient option for travelers. Here’s an overview of the schedule:
| Service | Train | Departure (SPI) | Arrival (CHI) | Travel Time | Key Stops | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Service | 300 | 6:00 AM | 9:30 AM | 3h 30m | Lincoln, Bloomington, Joliet | Free WiFi, Café Car, Power Outlets |
| Lincoln Service | 302 | 11:45 AM | 3:15 PM | 3h 30m | Lincoln, Bloomington, Joliet | Free WiFi, Café Car, Power Outlets |
| Lincoln Service | 304 | 4:15 PM | 7:45 PM | 3h 30m | Lincoln, Bloomington, Joliet | Free WiFi, Café Car, Power Outlets |
| Texas Eagle | 21/321 | 8:15 AM | 12:15 PM | 4h 00m | Lincoln, Bloomington, Joliet | Café Car, Checked Bags, Power Outlets |
Amtrak Springfield to Chicago Prices & Tickets
The Amtrak Springfield to Chicago route offers affordable ticket options for travelers. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing and booking details:
| Lincoln Service | $20 – $40 | $50 – $90 | ~2x Coach fare | 10% off (Seniors), 50% off (Kids 2-12) | Most frequent service (multiple daily trains) |
| Texas Eagle (if available) | $25 – $50 | N/A (Coach only) | ~2x Coach fare | Same discounts apply | Runs once daily (if operating) |
| Sale/Deals | As low as $15 (advance purchase) | N/A | N/A | Varies by promotion | Check Amtrak.com or “Weekly Specials” |
Amtrak Comfort: Springfield to Chicago
Traveling on Amtrak from Springfield to Chicago offers a comfortable and convenient experience for passengers. Here’s what you can expect in terms of comfort and amenities:
Seating & Space
- Coach Class: Spacious seats with ample legroom
- Business Class: Extra legroom, priority boarding, and quieter cabins
- Reclining Seats: Adjustable seating for relaxation
- Large Windows: Enjoy scenic views along the route
Onboard Amenities
- Wi-Fi Access: Stay connected throughout your journey
- Dining Options: Café car with snacks and beverages
- Restrooms: Clean and accessible facilities
- Power Outlets: Charge your devices during travel
Amtrak Springfield to Chicago vs. Other Travel Options
If you’re considering travel between Springfield, IL, and Chicago, IL, Amtrak is a popular choice, but there are other options as well. Here’s how Amtrak compares to driving and flying:
| Feature | Amtrak (Lincoln Service) | Driving (Car) | Bus (Greyhound/FlixBus) | Flying (SPI ORD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 3.5 – 4.5 hours | 3.5 – 4.5 hours (I-55 traffic) | 4.5 – 5.5 hours | 1 hour flight + 2+ hours (security, transit) |
| Cost (One-Way) | $20 – $40 (Coach) | $35 – $50 (gas + tolls) | $15 – $35 | $150 – $300+ |
| Comfort | Spacious seats, Wi-Fi, power outlets, café car | Depends on car; stop flexibility | Tight seating, limited legroom | Cramped seats, TSA hassle |
| Luggage | 2 carry-ons + 2 checked (50 lbs) | Unlimited (trunk space) | 1 carry-on + 1 checked (fee for extra) | Bag fees ($30+ checked) |
| Departures/Day | 5+ daily trains | Anytime | 2 – 3 daily buses | 2 – 4 daily flights |
| Best For | Relaxing, no traffic, good Wi-Fi | Flexibility, multiple stops | Budget travelers | Speed (but expensive) |
| Downtown Arrival | Union Station (city center) | Depends on parking | Bus depots (may require transit) | O’Hare/Midway (30+ min to downtown) |
| Eco-Friendliness | Low emissions | High emissions (solo) | Moderate | Very high |
Amtrak Springfield to Chicago Travel Tips
Traveling on Amtrak from Springfield to Chicago is a smooth and enjoyable experience, but a few travel tips can make your journey even better. Here are some key recommendations:
Booking & Planning
- Book Early: Secure the best fares by booking in advance.
- Check the Schedule: Amtrak operates multiple daily trains—choose a time that suits your itinerary.
- Use the Amtrak App: Manage your tickets, check schedules, and receive updates on delays.
Packing & Comfort
- Bring Essentials: Pack snacks, a travel pillow, and headphones for a comfortable ride.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear layers, as train temperatures can vary.
- Charge Your Devices: Power outlets are available, but bringing a portable charger is a good backup.
Onboard Experience
- Wi-Fi Access: Stay connected throughout your journey.
- Dining Options: Grab a meal or snack from the café car.
- Stretch & Relax: Walk around the train to stay comfortable during the ride.
Some Other Amtrak Routes
- Amtrak Washington to Philadelphia
- Amtrak New Haven to Hartford
- Amtrak New Haven to Connecticut
- Amtrak New Haven to Philadelphia
Conclusion
Amtrak’s Lincoln Service offers the best balance of speed, comfort, and affordability for trips between Springfield (SPI) and Chicago (CHI), with fares starting at just $20 and a travel time of under 4 hours.
FAQs on Amtrak Springfield to Chicago
The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 14 minutes, depending on the specific service.
Ticket prices start at $20, with premium seating options available.
Amtrak operates five daily trains, with departures starting at 6:11 AM and the last train leaving at 7:24 PM.
Book 2–4 weeks early for the lowest fares. Weekday trips are often cheaper than weekends.
Tickets can be booked via Amtrak’s official website, mobile app, or third-party travel platforms.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on most Amtrak trains for passenger convenience.
Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, power outlets, restrooms, and a café car.
Yes, students save 15% with the Student Advantage program (verification required).
Yes, Amtrak allows carry-on and checked baggage, with specific size and weight limits.
Small pets (up to 20 lbs) are allowed in carriers for a $29 fee (advance reservation required).