Chicago Marathon Trip Amtrak Info

Below are some options for the Amtrak ride departure city and I have included a couple options for the return (morning/afternoon). To the side there are two polls, one for departure city (only vote if you plan to ride) and departure for return trip option. Please comment/vote/question by Wednesday September 14, probably need to order tickets as soon as possible to insure seating.

Thanks.

NOTE:
There is *NO* checked bags on any of the rides, you are allowed (2) carry on bags, 28"x22"x14".  Just wanted everyone to be aware of that, have to pack light!

Details on Amtrak to Chicago

Traveling from Centralia, IL:

According to mapquest, Centralia is 120 miles from Evansville and takes 2 hours to drive.  It is an unattended station and we’d probably need to be there a half hour before departure time to be safe.  There is parking but not sure about any cost and/or safety.  The schedule/price is:

Fri Oct 7          Depart:  8:23am   Arrive Chicago:  1:00 pm      OW cost: $39    Travel time: 4:37

Mon Oct 10     Depart:  8:15am   Arrive Centralia: 12:16 pm    OW cost: $29   Travel time:  4:01

Mon Oct 10     Depart:  4:05am   Arrive Centralia: 8:06 pm    OW cost: $29   Travel time:  4:01

                                                                                               

                                                                     Per Person Round Trip Cost: $68

Traveling from Effingham, IL:

According to mapquest, Effingham is 128 miles from Evansville and takes 2.5 hours to drive.  Although it is roughly the same distance as Centralia, we travel on 2 lane roads instead of the interstate so it takes longer.  We basically spend an extra half hour driving instead of on the train and we save $17 on the round trip fare.  It is also an unattended station and we’d probably need to be there a half hour before departure time to be safe.  There is parking but not sure about any cost and/or safety.  The schedule/price is:

Fri Oct 7          Depart:  9:07am   Arrive Chicago:  1:00 pm      OW cost: $29    Travel time: 3:53

Mon Oct 10     Depart:  8:15am  Arrive Effingham: 11:29 am   OW cost: $22   Travel time: 4:01

                                                                     Per Person Round Trip Cost: $51