Schedule, Stops. If you’re looking to travel between Chicago and western Illinois without driving, the Illinois Zephyr is a great option. This daily Amtrak train operates between Chicago and Quincy, with stops in Galesburg and several other communities along the way. It’s a practical choice whether you’re heading into the city for the day or leaving for a weekend getaway. Additionally, it serves as a convenient starting point for connecting to Amtrak’s long-distance trains, including the Southwest Chief and the California Zephyr.
Quick Answer: Amtrak Illinois Zephyr Schedule
The Amtrak Illinois Zephyr is a daily train service that operates between Quincy, IL, and Chicago Union Station. Train 380 departs from Quincy in the morning and travels to Chicago, while Train 383 leaves Chicago in the evening and returns to Quincy. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, making stops at several locations, including Macomb, Galesburg, Kewanee, Princeton, Mendota, Plano, Naperville, and La Grange.
The Carl Sandburg serves the same Chicago–Quincy corridor and gives travelers an additional daily option.
Illinois Zephyr quick facts
| Illinois Zephyr quick facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | Chicago Union Station – Quincy, IL |
| Train numbers | 380 eastbound, 383 westbound |
| Frequency | Daily |
| Travel time | About 4 hours, 20–25 minutes |
| Key stops | Chicago, Naperville, Galesburg, Macomb, Quincy |
| Seating | Reserved coach and business class |
| Food | Café car |
| Wi-Fi | Available on the Illinois Zephyr |
| Checked baggage | Not offered on this train |
The Carl Sandburg operates on the Chicago–Quincy corridor, offering the same stops and services, giving travelers an additional daily option.
Amtrak Illinois Zephyr Schedule
The times provided are departure times; arrival times may be a minute or two earlier.
The information in these sections is sourced from the official Amtrak website. Always check your online ticket to verify the times before you depart. These times were last updated on June 13, 2026.
I am including the Carl Sandburg schedule because it serves the same Chicago–Quincy corridor at different times of day and gives travelers another option.
| 381 West Carl Sandburg Read Down | 383 West Illinois Zephyr Read Down | Stops | Miles | 380 East Illinois Zephyr Last Stop | 382 East Carl Sandburg Last Stop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:40a | 5:55p | Chicago, IL Union Station (CHI) | 0 | 10:33a | 9:51p |
| 7:59a | 6:14p | La Grange, IL (LAG) | 14 | 10:14a | 9:31p |
| 8:15a | 6:30p | Naperville, IL (NPV) | 28 | 9:58a | 9:15p |
| 8:37a | 6:54p | Plano, IL (PLO) | 52 | 9:24a | 8:38p |
| 9:05a | 7:22p | Mendota, IL (MDT) | 83 | 8:53a | 8:09p |
| 9:26a | 7:44p | Princeton, IL (PCT) | 104 | 8:31a | 7:47p |
| 9:49a | 8:08p | Kewanee, IL (KEE) | 131 | 8:07a | 7:23p |
| 10:23a | 8:43p | Galesburg, IL (GBB) | 162 | 7:37a | 6:56p |
| 11:04a | 9:24p | Macomb, IL (MAC) | 202 | 7:01a | 6:19p |
| 12:02p | 10:17p | Quincy, IL (QCY) | 258 | 6:12a | 5:30p |
| Last Stop | Last Stop | Station | Miles | Read Up | Read Up |
The California Zephyr, Carl Sandburg, and Southwest Chief duplicate some of the Illinois Zephyr’s stops.
Printable Amtrak Illinois Zephyr Schedule
Feel free to print out or download this page from Amtrak. The schedule below does not list the last three stations.
How to Buy Amtrak Illinois Zephyr Tickets
You can purchase Amtrak tickets through the Amtrak website or Amtrak app, by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL, at staffed Amtrak stations, or from ticket kiosks where available. You can also check with local or online travel agents.
For many travelers, using the Amtrak website or app is the easiest option. The Amtrak app allows you to store your eTicket, or you can print the PDF ticket that Amtrak emails to you. Conductors can also scan your eTicket directly from the email on your phone or another electronic device.
I recommend buying your ticket in advance, especially when traveling on weekends, during holidays, or at other busy times. Some trains, accommodations, and services can sell out quickly. It’s also a good idea to book early if you plan to travel with a bicycle or a pet, or if you want one of the limited premium accommodations on the train.
Illinois Zephyr Stops and Station Notes
The Illinois Zephyr serves several Illinois communities between Chicago Union Station and Quincy. Some stops are larger stations with more Amtrak connections, while others are smaller local stops that mainly serve nearby communities.
By clicking the station link, you will get the station’s address and other information you need.
| Stop | Station note |
|---|---|
| Chicago (IL) Union Station | The eastern terminus of the Illinois Zephyr connects to Amtrak’s main hub in Chicago, allowing passengers to transfer to many other Amtrak routes. |
| La Grange, IL | A convenient stop in suburban Chicago for travelers in the western suburbs, allowing connections with Metra. |
| Naperville, IL | This suburban stop is busy and convenient for travelers who do not want to start or end their trip in downtown Chicago; it also offers Metra connections. |
| Plano, IL | A smaller station located west of the Chicago suburbs, useful for travelers in Kendall County and surrounding areas. |
| Mendota, IL | A stop in northern Illinois that is convenient for travelers from nearby towns seeking Amtrak service without needing to drive into Chicago. |
| Princeton, IL | Princeton is a smaller Illinois stop along the Chicago–Quincy corridor. |
| Kewanee, IL | This is a local stop between Princeton and Galesburg, serving travelers in western Illinois. |
| Galesburg, IL | Galesburg is a significant stop on this route and is served by other Amtrak trains, making it convenient for connections to the Southwest Chief and the California Zephyr. |
| Macomb, IL | A convenient stop for travelers visiting Western Illinois University and the nearby area. |
| Quincy, IL | The western endpoint of the Illinois Zephyr is located near the Mississippi River, close to the Illinois–Missouri border. |
Coach class on the Illinois Zephyr
The Illinois Zephyr coach seating features fold-down trays and seat-back pockets.
This train has individual reading lights and 120V grounded (three-prong) electric outlets for convenience. Depending on the car model, the outlet is either mounted on the wall or located between the seats.
Each coach car has overhead luggage racks and a shelf at one end for your belongings.
Business class
Business class includes extra legroom, a comfortable seat, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages; ask the café car attendant for more details.
Additionally, Business Class customers receive a 25% bonus on Amtrak Guest Rewards points. If you are departing from Chicago, Business Class passengers can use the Metropolitan Lounge for a fee.
Wi-fi & Entertainment
Amtrak offers free Wi-Fi on this train. While free, it does have some restrictions, including the ability to throttle or block streaming. You may not be able to download or upload large files.
Amtrak does not offer streaming entertainment, but here are some entertainment ideas for you.
Food on the Illinois Zephyr
On this train, you can buy or bring food in the café car, which offers a variety of hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages, including alcoholic options.
You can consume your purchases in the café or at your seat.
Conductors and the café car attendant will inform you when it is open and where it is located, typically at one end of the train.
Bringing Food On The Illinois Zephyr
Amtrak allows you to bring food and drink aboard the train, but you can only consume what you obtained at your seat, not in the café.
While you can bring alcohol on the train, consuming it is prohibited. If you drink alcohol not bought on the train or cause a disturbance, the train conductors may remove you.
Add-ons
There are a few things you can add to your reservations.
Bikes
Carry-on/Trainside bicycles: You can bring up to 50 lbs. Standard bicycle sizes apply. The maximum tire width is 2″. Check the link for details. Bike service may not be available at all stations.
Pets and service animals
Amtrak allows dogs and cats:
- Up to 20 pounds
- The combined weight of the pet and carrier.
- These spots may be limited, and paperwork is required.
- You need paperwork before you leave for the station.
- For information on paperwork, rules, and limitations, please refer to Amtrak’s pet policy.
If you have a service or comfort animal, read the Amtrak service animal policy before booking for qualifications and booking information.
Golf clubs
You must make a reservation to bring golf clubs on the train; you can do so via the app, website, or phone, or at staffed stations. For more information, please refer to Amtrak’s golf policy.
Luggage
This train does not offer checked baggage.
Each passenger may carry on:
- One personal item, up to 25 pounds (12 kg), and 14 x 11 x 7 inches
- Two carry-on pieces of luggage, 50 lbs. (23 kg) and 28 x 22 x 14 inches each
Charges apply to additional and oversized luggage; see Amtrak’s carry-on bag policy for more information.
Illinois Zephyr FAQ
Does the Illinois Zephyr run every day?
Yes, the Illinois Zephyr operates daily, providing service between Quincy, Illinois, and Chicago’s Union Station with several intermediate stops.
What are the Illinois Zephyr train numbers?
The Illinois Zephyr operates on train numbers 380 and 383. Train 380 travels from Quincy to Chicago, while Train 383 travels from Chicago to Quincy.
How long is the Illinois Zephyr trip?
The trip from Quincy to Chicago takes about 4 hours and 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the schedule and direction. However, if you are getting on or off at an intermediate stop, your trip will be shorter.
Does the Illinois Zephyr have a café car?
Yes. The Illinois Zephyr offers café service with snacks, drinks, and grab-and-go meals available for purchase.
Does the Illinois Zephyr have checked baggage?
No. The Illinois Zephyr does not provide checked baggage, so passengers must manage their own carry-on bags.
Is the Illinois Zephyr the same as the Carl Sandburg?
For most travelers, the Illinois Zephyr and the Carl Sandburg trains are essentially the same. They serve the same Chicago–Quincy corridor, utilize the same trainsets, and provide a comparable onboard experience.
The primary distinction is the schedule and train numbers. The Illinois Zephyr operates on trains 380 and 383, while the Carl Sandburg operates on trains 381 and 382.
Final Thoughts on the Illinois Zephyr
The Illinois Zephyr is a convenient daily option for traveling between Quincy and Chicago, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a straightforward daytime train trip across Illinois. It offers coach seating, business class, café service, Wi-Fi, and several helpful stops along the way. This makes it a great option for college students, first-time Amtrak riders, and travelers heading to or from western Illinois.
Always verify your travel date on Amtrak.com or in the Amtrak app before booking, as schedules and services may change.
If this guide has helped you plan your trip, I invite you to join my newsletter for more tips on Amtrak, route guides, and travel updates. You can also support my work through my support page or on Patreon. As a Patreon member, you will receive a monthly postcard that I create just for you.
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Safe Travels,
Kev
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