Fastest ~4h30–5h by bus
| 🚆 Train | ~5h30–5h45 | Amtrak Lincoln Service, several daily departures |
| 🚌 Bus | ~4h30–5h | Greyhound/FlixBus, cheapest, slightly faster than train |
| ✈️ Flight | ~3–4h door-to-door | 55min air but airport overhead erases most time saving |
| 🚗 Car | ~4h30–5h | 470–490km via I-55, Route 66 detour option |
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Chicago and St Louis are about 470 kilometres apart — close enough for an easy day trip, far enough that the choice of transport genuinely matters. Amtrak's Lincoln Service runs directly between the two cities, buses are cheaper still, and driving takes roughly five hours. Here is how each option compares.
The train: Amtrak Lincoln Service
Amtrak operates the Lincoln Service between Chicago Union Station and St Louis Gateway Station, with the journey taking around 5 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours 45 minutes depending on the schedule. Several departures run each day in both directions, which makes it realistic for a day return.
The train is comfortable and relaxed — a proper coach seat, a café car, power outlets, and the chance to watch the Illinois flatlands roll past without fighting motorway traffic. Fares are typically modest compared with flying, and advance booking usually secures the best prices; walk-up tickets still tend to be reasonable on this corridor. Reservations are generally required and can be made through Amtrak.
The cheapest way: long-distance bus
Several operators run coaches between Chicago and St Louis, with journey times of around 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours on a good run, though allow more if traffic is heavy. Greyhound has long served this corridor; FlixBus has also expanded its Midwest network. Bus fares are typically the lowest of any mode, especially with advance booking.
Coaches generally leave from and arrive at downtown bus stations or nearby stops — confirm the terminal when booking, as stops can vary by operator. The journey is straightforward on the interstate, and the ride is perfectly comfortable for a daytime leg.
The fastest door-to-door option: flying
Flights between Chicago O'Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW) and St Louis Lambert (STL) exist, but the scheduled flight time is only about 55 minutes — and by the time you factor in getting to the airport, checking in, security, boarding, baggage claim and the drive downtown, the real door-to-door time is often 3–4 hours. On this corridor, flying rarely saves much time over the train unless you happen to start the day near an airport.
If price is very low and you have no hold luggage, it can make sense; otherwise the train or bus lands you closer to where you want to be without the airport overhead.
Driving
The drive between Chicago and St Louis follows I-55 for most of its length — a relatively uncomplicated interstate route of around 470–490 km, taking roughly 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours without stops in normal traffic. Factor in more time if you are leaving Chicago during rush hour, which can add a significant delay to the exit.
Driving gives you the flexibility to stop at Springfield (Lincoln's hometown and worth a visit), and it is the obvious choice if you need a car at the other end. Petrol costs and any parking fees in St Louis are the main variables to budget.
The scenic way: taking your time
If you are in no hurry, the Lincoln Service is as scenic as the Midwest gets — not dramatic, but quietly pleasing as it passes through small towns and farmland. Alternatively, Route 66 runs roughly parallel to I-55 between the two cities, and diverting onto historic US 66 through Pontiac, Springfield and Litchfield adds charm to what would otherwise be a plain motorway drive.
Travellers interested in a broader US rail journey can link the Lincoln Service into Amtrak's wider network — St Louis connects onward to Kansas City and Texas Eagle services.
Which should you choose?
The Lincoln Service train is the most relaxed choice for most travellers — you arrive downtown, there is no airport stress, and the fare is usually competitive. Choose the bus if budget is the priority. Drive if you want flexibility or need a car in St Louis. Flying is rarely the winner on this short corridor unless circumstances align perfectly.
Finding your way at Union Station and Gateway Station
Chicago Union Station is a large, historic terminal with separate concourses for different services — check the departure board for your specific Lincoln Service train and platform rather than assuming all Amtrak departures cluster together, since the station also handles several other long-distance and commuter lines. Arrive at least 30 minutes early if you have checked baggage, as Amtrak's check-in process at Union Station is not instant. St Louis Gateway Station is smaller and more straightforward, connecting directly to the MetroLink light rail for onward travel into downtown St Louis.
Luggage and comfort on board
Amtrak's Lincoln Service allows a generous carry-on allowance plus checked baggage at no extra charge on most fares — a real advantage over flying or the bus, particularly if you are travelling with sports equipment, musical instruments or simply heavier luggage than a typical overhead bin allows. Seats are wide with good legroom by any standard, and the café car offers snacks and drinks throughout the journey. Coach luggage capacity is more limited, with an underfloor hold subject to a standard per-passenger limit — check with the specific operator if travelling with more than one large bag.
Common mistakes to avoid
A frequent error is comparing the flight's short air time directly against the train without accounting for airport transfers, security and the drive into downtown St Louis at the other end — the real door-to-door time gap is much smaller than the raw flight time suggests, and travellers who choose to fly purely to "save time" are sometimes disappointed. Drivers leaving Chicago should avoid the classic mistake of departing right at the start of evening rush hour; even a 30-minute delay in leaving the city can add significantly more than 30 minutes to the total journey given how congested the approach to I-55 can get.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct train from Chicago to St Louis?
Yes. Amtrak's Lincoln Service runs directly between Chicago Union Station and St Louis Gateway Station several times a day, taking around 5 hours 30 minutes.
Can I do the trip as a day return?
Yes, comfortably. Several departures run early enough to arrive in St Louis by mid-morning and return by evening, making a day trip very practical by train or car.
Is the bus faster than the train on this route?
The bus can be marginally faster in light traffic (around 4 hours 30 minutes versus 5 hours 30 minutes by train), but times vary with road conditions. The train is more reliable and more comfortable.
Does Amtrak require advance booking?
Amtrak recommends booking in advance, and advance fares are usually cheaper. The Lincoln Service is a popular corridor and trains can fill up, particularly at weekends.
Sources and further reading:
- Timetables and booking: Amtrak (amtrak.com).
- Bus schedules: Greyhound and FlixBus.
- Broader US rail context: Viamo US rail guide.