The Great Train Race: Chicago to St. Louis in a Flash (or Maybe Not Quite)
Ah, the Windy City and the Gateway to the West! Two great American metropolises beckoning you with their deep-dish pizza, toasted ravioli, and, well, architectural marvels. But how do you get from one to the other in a timely fashion? Buckle up, because we're about to delve into the delightful world of high-speed trains between Chicago and St. Louis.
Speedy Gonzales or Slowpoke Steve? The High Speed Rail Situation
Hold your horses (or should we say, tether your trusty steed)! While Chicago and St. Louis are chugging along towards a true high-speed rail future, we're not quite there yet. Thanks to a recent upgrade, Amtrak trains can now reach speeds of up to 110 mph on certain stretches. That's not a bullet train, but it's a heck of a lot faster than your average grandma on a mobility scooter. This translates to a journey time of around 5 hours, which is a decent improvement over the pre-upgrade era.
But here's the thing: Like any good improv show, there can be some unexpected twists. Depending on the specific train and any surprise detours (construction? rogue tumbleweeds?), the trip could take a tad longer. Hey, at least you'll have comfy seats and an excuse to polish off that entire bag of Amtrak peanuts.
Is it Faster Than Driving? You Be the Judge!
Ah, the age-old question. Here's the thing: it depends. Factor in traffic, finding parking in both cities (yikes!), and the undeniable allure of guilt-free snacking on the train, and it can be a pretty close call. Plus, who wants to deal with road rage when you can kick back, relax, and maybe even spot some bald eagles soaring by (hey, it's a possibility!).
So, the answer is: it depends on your priorities and tolerance for traffic jams.
Alright, Alright, I'm Sold on the Train. How Do I Book My Speedy (ish) Adventure?
Simple, my friend! Head over to Amtrak's website (
Now you're ready to roll (or shall we say, ride) into St. Louis a victor, ready to conquer all that the Gateway to the West has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to book a train from Chicago to St. Louis?
Head over to Amtrak's website (
How long does the train ride take?
Around 5 hours, but it can vary slightly depending on the train.
Is it faster than driving?
It depends on traffic and parking, but the train can be a competitive option.
What are the benefits of taking the train?
Relaxation, beautiful scenery (sometimes!), and avoiding the stress of driving.
Is there Wi-Fi on the train?
Many Amtrak trains offer Wi-Fi, but it's always a good idea to check beforehand.
