Train Travel in Illinois

Chicago Union Station is the hub of the national network, with seven long-distance routes plus state-supported corridors to St. Louis, Quincy, Carbondale, and Milwaukee.

Routes serving Illinois

The following passenger rail services call at one or more stations in Illinois. Routes range from short-haul commuter rail systems to transcontinental long-distance trains; the table below sorts by service type and distance. A useful supplemental resource is the state-level rail capital plan summary for context on funded improvements.

Stations in Illinois

Our station index covers 26 facilities in Illinois, from large urban union stations to rural flag stops.

Travel notes

Illinois is part of the Midwest region. Riders connecting between routes within the state can use any of the major hubs above for cross-platform or short-walk transfers, depending on the station. For onward travel beyond the rail network, intercity bus and connecting Thruway services often complement the train; consult the operator for current connecting itineraries.

Fare structures, on-board amenities, and ticketing systems differ between Amtrak, state-supported corridors, and individual commuter operators. Long-distance Amtrak trains typically offer reserved sleeping accommodations alongside coach class; corridor services are reserved coach with optional business class; and commuter rail is generally open seating with monthly-pass fare options.