The Chicago to St. Louis leg of travel is served by Amtrak’s Lincoln service. There are multiple trips a day on this line. Lincoln service has the shortest travel time of all Amtrak routes at approximately 5 hours. It travels a distance of 284 miles. Normal fares are around $30, but can go as high as $100 on busy travel days. If you plan to take this trip overnight, you may also want to take the Texas Eagle, which also travels this route once a day.
Why Take a Train from Chicago to St. Louis? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel
The Chicago-St. Louis corridor is one of the busiest and most advanced rail routes in the Midwest. Nearly $2 billion in investments from Illinois built high-speed rail along this corridor. The investments added Positive Train Control, new train stations, and new trains that travel up to 110 mph. Here is why travelers choose the train:
- No driving stress. Interstate 55 can be heavy with trucks and construction. On the train, you relax, read, or work.
- City-center to city-center. You leave from downtown Chicago and arrive near downtown St. Louis. There are no airport transfers or security lines.
- Comfortable seating. Coach seats have generous legroom, power outlets, and tray tables.
- Free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is available on Lincoln Service trains, which is handy for remote work.
- Predictable travel time. You avoid traffic jams and airport delays.
- Scenic Midwest views. The route passes farmland, small towns, and the Illinois prairie.
- Easy stops along the way. You can break your journey in Springfield, Illinois, to visit Abraham Lincoln sites.
- Lower carbon footprint than driving alone or flying short distances.
- Pet-friendly options. Amtrak allows small pets on many Midwest trains for an extra fee.
| Reason | Train Advantage |
| Comfort | Spacious seats, standing and walking allowed |
| Productivity | Wi-Fi, tables, power outlets |
| Convenience | Downtown-to-downtown travel |
| Cost | Often cheaper than last-minute flights |
| Stress | No traffic, no parking, no TSA |
Which Trains Go from Chicago to St. Louis? Major Rail Services Explained
Two Amtrak services cover the full Chicago–St. Louis route.
- Lincoln Service: The Lincoln Service is the primary and most frequent train between the two cities and runs daily with multiple departures in each direction. The trains are equipped with modern Midwest equipment (Siemens Venture cars and Charger locomotives) with Coach and Business Class seating. There is Wi-Fi onboard the trains as well.
- Texas Eagle: The Texas Eagle is a long-distance train that provides service from Chicago through St. Louis and on to Texas (Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio) and with a connection to Los Angeles. It runs once a day. The key difference is that it provides private sleeping accommodations, so it is the choice if you are looking for a roomette or bedroom on the Chicago-St. Louis section, or if you are continuing your trip south.
- Other Amtrak Services in the Area: The Illinois Zephyr/Carl Sandburg (Chicago-Quincy), Illini/Saluki (Chicago-Carbondale), and Missouri River Runner (St. Louis-Kansas City) routes all connect to the same network and serve similar areas as the routes that connect Chicago and St. Louis.
| Train | Frequency | Seating | Wi-Fi | Best For |
| Lincoln Service | Multiple daily departures | Coach, Business Class | Yes | Most travelers, flexible timing |
| Texas Eagle | Once daily | Coach, Business, Sleeper | Varies | Sleeper travel, continuing to Texas |
Popular Train Routes from Chicago to St. Louis From Major US Cities
Many people traveling to St. Louis make connections through other cities. Most connections are made through Chicago Union Station, the Midwest’s main Amtrak hub.
- From New York City: Take the Lake Shore Limited to Chicago (about 19–20 hours), then transfer to the Lincoln Service. Most people break the trip with a hotel stay in Chicago.
- From Washington, D.C.: Take the Capitol Limited to Chicago (around 17–18 hours), then connect.
- From Milwaukee: The Hiawatha Service reaches Chicago in about 1.5 hours.
- From Detroit: The Wolverine route goes to Chicago in about 5.5 hours.
- From Los Angeles: The Southwest Chief goes to Chicago, or you can take the Sunset Limited/Texas Eagle combination via San Antonio.
- From Dallas or Austin: Take the Texas Eagle directly north to St. Louis without changing trains.
- From Kansas City: The Missouri River Runner connects to St. Louis, where you can then continue on the Lincoln Service to Chicago.
- From Minneapolis–St. Paul: The Empire Builder reaches Chicago in about 8 hours.
Note: Because long-distance connections can be delayed, leave a layover of at least 2–3 hours, or stay overnight if your onward train leaves the next day.
Chicago to St. Louis Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
How long is the train from Chicago to St. Louis? Typically about 5 hours, depending on the train. The 110 mph upgrades have trimmed time compared with older schedules.
The Lincoln Service typically runs multiple trips in both the morning and the evening, allowing you to do a day trip in either direction. Departure times change from season to season and based on changes Amtrak makes, so check Amtrak.com for the most up-to-date information.
| Segment | Approximate Travel Time |
| Chicago to Joliet | About 1 hour |
| Chicago to Bloomington–Normal | About 2.5 hours |
| Chicago to Springfield | About 3.5 hours |
| Springfield to St. Louis | About 2 hours |
| Chicago to St. Louis (full route) | About 5 hours |
Main Stations on the Route
Chicago (CHI) → Joliet (JOL) → Pontiac (PON) → Bloomington–Normal (BNL) → Lincoln (LCN) → Springfield (SPI) → Carlinville (CAR) → Alton (ALN) → St. Louis (STL).
Ticket Tips
- Book early for the lowest fare buckets.
- Midweek and midday trains tend to cost less.
- Check the app for flash sales and promo codes.
- Avoid Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons if you are price-sensitive.
- Consider a flexible fare if your plans may change.
Chicago to St. Louis Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
New to Amtrak? These tips make the ride easier.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early. Chicago Union Station can be busy; check the departure board for your track.
- Have your e-ticket ready. Use the Amtrak app; conductors scan the QR code.
- Choose your seat side. Coach seating is typically unreserved on Lincoln Service, so board early for a window seat. Check your ticket rules.
- Pack light. Amtrak allows two personal items and two carry-ons for free. Many stations offer checked baggage.
- Bring a charger and headphones. Outlets are available at seats.
- Pack snacks. The café car sells food, but outside snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed.
- Know the quiet rules. Keep phone calls short and voices low.
- Check the weather and alerts. Amtrak posts service alerts and schedule adjustments on its site.
- Download your ticket offline in case of weak cell signal.
- Keep valuables with you and label your luggage.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes from Chicago to St. Louis
- Direct Routes: Both the Lincoln Service and the Texas Eagle go directly between the two cities, making the least amount of connections. The best thing to do is tell travelers what most travelers do.
- Connecting Routes: You’ll probably connect in Chicago if you’re coming from another city. The CTA “L” and Metra commuter trains both connect most stations in the city, although most Amtrak trains use Union Station.
- In St. Louis, MetroLink light rail and local buses connect Gateway Station to the airport, downtown, and nearby neighborhoods.
| Route Type | Example | Changes | Best For |
| Direct | Chicago → St. Louis (Lincoln Service) | 0 | Everyday travel |
| Direct sleeper | Chicago → St. Louis (Texas Eagle) | 0 | Overnight, private room |
| Connecting | New York → Chicago → St. Louis | 1 | Long-distance trips |
| Connecting | Kansas City → St. Louis → Chicago | 1 | Multi-city trips |
Business Class vs Coach on Chicago to St. Louis Trains
Lincoln Service trains offer two seat types: Coach and Business Class.
- Coach is the standard, budget-friendly seat. It has good legroom, a footrest, a tray table, and a power outlet. It suits most travelers.
- Business Class costs more but gives you extra space, and on many trains a complimentary non-alcoholic drink and access to the Metropolitan Lounge at Chicago Union Station for eligible tickets. It tends to be quieter and less crowded.
| Feature | Coach | Business Class |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Legroom | Good | More |
| Crowding | Moderate | Fewer passengers |
| Chicago Metropolitan Lounge | No (paid access may be available) | Included on eligible tickets |
| Complimentary drink | No | Often yes |
| Wi-Fi and outlets | Yes | Yes |
Which should you choose? If the price difference is small, Business Class is a nice upgrade, especially for a 5-hour ride. If you are budget-conscious, Coach is perfectly comfortable. For a private bed, the Texas Eagle sleeper is the only option.
Chicago to St. Louis Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Chicago to St. Louis Station
- Chicago Union Station (CHI): Located at 225 S. Canal Street in the Loop, Union Station is the major Amtrak Midwest hub. The station features the Great Hall, restaurants, restrooms, luggage services, and the Metropolitan Lounge (for eligible passengers) This station is walkable from many of the hotels located in downtown Chicago, and is accessible via CTA buses and nearby ‘L’ lines.
- St. Louis Gateway Station (STL): Located near downtown St. Louis, Gateway Station is the main transit center for intermodal, Amtrak and St. Louis MetroLink services. Numerous bus services also use the transit center. Amtrak, MetroLink and bus services all have ticket and information desks, baggage service and waiting areas. Check Amtrak for current hours of operation.
| Station | City | Code | Connections |
| Union Station | Chicago | CHI | Metra, CTA, taxis, rideshares |
| Gateway Station | St. Louis | STL | MetroLink, buses, rideshares |
Tips: Use rideshare or MetroLink for airport transfers, and allow time for Chicago’s busy boarding procedures.
How to Book Train Tickets to Chicago to St. Louis: Step-by-Step Guide
- Go to Amtrak.com or open the Amtrak app. These are the official booking channels.
- Enter your route. Choose “Chicago, IL – Union Station (CHI)” as the origin and “St. Louis, MO (STL)” as the destination.
- Select your travel dates. Choose one-way or round trip.
- Add travelers. Include adults, children, seniors, or students for relevant discounts.
- Compare trains and fares. Review departure times, duration, and prices.
- Choose your fare. Pick Coach or Business Class, and look at Saver or Flexible options.
- Enter passenger details and payment information.
- Confirm and save your e-ticket to your phone or print it.
- Check in at the station or scan your ticket on board.
Note: You can also buy tickets at station ticket counters or kiosks, or by phone, but booking online is usually fastest and may show more promotions.
Chicago to St. Louis Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Fares vary by date, demand, and how early you book. Many fares fall roughly between $30 and $100+ one way, with last-minute and holiday-weekend tickets costing more. Business Class and sleeper accommodations cost more than Coach.
| Ticket Type | Typical One-Way Range* |
| Coach (advance) | About 30–60 |
| Coach (peak / last-minute) | About 70–100+ |
| Business Class | Higher than Coach; varies |
| Texas Eagle Sleeper | Several hundred dollars; varies |
Note: Estimates only. Check Amtrak for live prices.
How to Save Money
- Book early. The cheapest fares usually sell out first.
- Travel midweek. Tuesday through Thursday is often cheaper.
- Choose off-peak times. Midday departures can be cheaper.
- Look for discounts. Amtrak has discounts for seniors, children, students, military members, veterans, and groups.
- Use Amtrak Guest Rewards. Earn points on every trip and redeem them for travel.
- Check for promotions. Sales appear often on Amtrak’s website and app.
- Compare one-way fares. Sometimes two one-ways cost less than a round trip.
Note: Children aged 2–12 usually get reduced fares, and kids under 2 can ride free on a parent’s lap, subject to Amtrak’s current rules.
Best Time to Visit Chicago to St. Louis by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
| Season | What to Expect | Travel Notes |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Mild weather, blooming prairies, baseball season | Great fares before summer rush |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Warm to hot, festivals, Cardinals and Cubs games | Higher demand; book early |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Colorful foliage, comfortable temperatures | Best overall time for the scenery |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cold, possible snow, holiday events | Check alerts for weather delays |
- Best overall: Fall for scenery and comfortable weather, and spring for lower fares. If you are going for a Cubs–Cardinals game, a concert, or a holiday weekend, reserve tickets as soon as plans are firm. Winter storms can occasionally affect schedules, so allow buffer time.
- Day trips: Because trains run several times a day, you can leave Chicago in the morning, spend an afternoon in St. Louis seeing the Gateway Arch, City Museum, or Forest Park, and return that evening, depending on the schedule.
Train vs Bus vs Car to Chicago to St. Louis: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
| Factor | Train | Bus | Car | Flight |
| Travel time | ~5 hours | ~5.5–6.5 hours | ~4–4.5 hours | ~1.25 hrs in the air; 3–4 hrs total |
| Typical cost | 30–100+ | Often 20–60 | Gas, tolls, parking | Varies widely |
| Comfort | High | Moderate | Depends on driver | Moderate |
| Can you work or relax? | Yes | Somewhat | No (driver) | Limited |
| Luggage | Generous | Limited | Unlimited | Fees possible |
| Reliability | Good; occasional delays | Traffic-dependent | Traffic-dependent | Weather and airport delays |
- Train: Best for comfort, productivity, and relaxed travel.
- Bus: Often the cheapest option, but slower and more exposed to road traffic.
- Car: Fastest door-to-door if you drive, and best for flexibility or stops in small towns. You pay for gas and parking and deal with I-55 traffic.
- Flight: Quick in the air, but airport transfers, security, and boarding often erase the time advantage.
Verdict: For most solo travelers, couples, and remote workers, the train offers the best balance of comfort, price, and convenience. For groups with lots of gear, driving may be better.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a direct train from Chicago to St. Louis?
Yes. Amtrak’s Lincoln Service and Texas Eagle both run directly between Chicago Union Station and St. Louis Gateway Station with no transfers.
2. How long does the train from Chicago to St. Louis take?
About 5 hours on most trains. Exact time depends on the specific train and any operating changes.
3. How much does a train ticket from Chicago to St. Louis cost?
Tickets typically range from about $30 to $100 or more one way. Booking early and traveling midweek usually gets the lowest prices.
4. How many trains run daily between Chicago and St. Louis?
The Lincoln Service runs multiple times each day in each direction, and the Texas Eagle adds one daily train. Check Amtrak for the latest timetable.
5. Which train station do I use in Chicago and St. Louis?
You depart from Chicago Union Station (CHI) and arrive at St. Louis Gateway Station (STL).
6. Is there Wi-Fi on the Chicago to St. Louis train?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on Lincoln Service trains. Speed can vary on rural stretches, so download important files beforehand.
7. Is Business Class worth it on the Lincoln Service?
If the price difference is modest, yes. You get extra space, a quieter ride, and often Chicago lounge access. Coach is still comfortable for budget travelers.
8. Can I get a sleeper car from Chicago to St. Louis?
Sleepers are not offered on the Lincoln Service. If you want a private room, book the Texas Eagle.
9. Can I bring luggage and pets?
Yes. Amtrak allows two personal items and two carry-ons for free, and checked baggage is available at many stations. Small pets are permitted on many Midwest trains for a fee, with rules on carriers and reservations.
10. Is the train better than driving or flying from Chicago to St. Louis?
It depends on your priorities. The train is more relaxing and often cheaper than last-minute flights, while driving can be quicker and more flexible. Flying saves little time once airport steps are included.