Amtrak St. Louis to Chicago – Complete Travel Guide

Amtrak St. Louis to Chicago journey takes about 4 hours 59 minutes and covers around 284 miles. Traveling by train from St. Louis to Chicago is a smooth, easy, and scenic trip. The main train on this route is Amtrak’s Lincoln Service. It’s a great choice if you want to avoid driving or flying. The train ride is calm and comfortable, with nice views along the way. You also get to enjoy helpful services like free Wi-Fi, snacks, power outlets, and clean restrooms. One of the best parts is that the train drops you off right in downtown Chicago, close to everything. If you’re looking for a simple and stress-free way to travel, this train is a great option.

Route Stops, Train Schedule and Price

Here’s a table that shows the route stops along with the schedule for the departure times from St. Louis to Chicago and Chicago to St. Louis. This way, you see where the train stops and when it roughly passes those stations.

Notes:

• Times shown are approximate and may vary slightly.
• The four times listed for each direction correspond to the four daily train departures.
• Departure times from intermediate stops are estimated based on overall trip duration.

Train Schedules and Frequency

• There are four daily round-trip on the Lincoln Service.
• According to some sources, up to five departures per day may be offered, depending on the schedule.
• Typical trip times range from about 4 hours 55 minutes to just over 5 hours.
• Departures span morning, afternoon, and evening, offering flexibility for travelers.
• After speed improvements, new appointments and arrival times took effect in mid-2023.

Ticketing and Fare Options

• Prices generally range from $30 to $120, depending on ticket type, class, and timing.
• Classes: Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and sometimes Premium.
• Discounts: Available for children (2–16 years), veterans, and seniors.
• Best booking time: Round-trip deals are often best snagged about 50–60 days before travel; afternoon travel can yield cheaper fares.

Services & Amenities available from Amtrak St. Louis to Chicago

Here are the Services and Amenities available on Amtrak’s Lincoln Service (St. Louis to Chicago). 

• Train class: Amtrak Lincoln Service offers Coach Class with comfortable seating and affordable fares, and Business Class with extra legroom, reclining seats, and free soft drinks. Roomettes are rare on this route and usually available only on longer-distance trains like the Texas Eagle.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available on all Lincoln Service trains. It’s great for checking emails, browsing the web, or messaging. However, it might not support video streaming.
• Café Car: The café car sells snacks, drinks, and light meals. It’s open during most of the journey and accepts cards or cash.
• Power Outlets: Every seat has access to power outlets so you can charge your phone, tablet, or laptop during the trip.
• Restrooms: Clean restrooms are located in each train car for passenger convenience.
• Luggage: Passengers can bring two carry-on bags and two personal items for free. There’s space above and near your seat to store your luggage. Checked baggage is not available on this route.
• Accessibility: Trains have wider aisles, wheelchair access, and lifts. Stations like St. Louis and Chicago also offer assistance for elderly or disabled passengers.
• Station Amenities: Stations include waiting areas, restrooms, ticket counters, baggage help, and sometimes vending machines or cafés.
• Quiet Ride: Trains are generally peaceful, and Business Class is especially quiet—great for relaxing or working.

Helpful Tips for Your St. Louis to Chicago Train Journey

• Arrive early: ideally 40–45 minutes before departure, especially if checking baggage (though not for Lincoln Service) or needing assistance.
• Upgrade to Business Class: Many find the extra $18 worth it for a more comfortable ride and free drinks.
• Luggage: You’ll keep your bags close by, visible, and accessible.
• Wi‑Fi: Good for email or browsing, but streaming isn’t recommended—shared connection slows down.
• Ticket deals: Check afternoon departures for deals; booking about 7–8 weeks ahead often gets lower fares.
• Enjoy the journey: You’ll pass rolling farmland, small towns, and rivers—much nicer than airports or highways.

Frequently Asked Questions