Explore Illinois’ most essential ports and transportation hubs that keep the state’s commerce and construction industries moving.
From freight terminals to intermodal logistics centers, these key locations play a vital role in supporting infrastructure development, supply chain efficiency, and economic growth across the region.
North America’s largest inland port and intermodal terminal complex — handling massive freight flows via both BNSF and Union Pacific rail lines.
Location: Elwood / Joliet, IL
Website: centerpointintermodal.com
Historic and busy container terminal handling ~1,900 lifts per day — a vital intermodal freight hub in Chicago’s west side.
Location: Chicago, IL
Website: bnsf.com
CPKC’s largest U.S. marshaling yard with 55 service tracks — major freight switching yard just northwest of Chicago.
Location: Bensenville / Franklin Park, IL
Website: cpkc.com
Illinois’s primary lakeport on Lake Michigan — handles coal, grain, steel, and general cargo; integrated with road and rail networks.
Location: Chicago, IL
Website: portofchicago.com
Modern multimodal transit center — Metra commuter rail terminus and an Amtrak stop with a major bus terminal.
Location: Joliet, IL
Website: jolietgatewaycenter.com
Fourth-busiest rail station in the U.S. — key hub for long-distance Amtrak and six Metra commuter lines in downtown Chicago.
Location: Chicago, IL
Website: chicagounionstation.com
Major UP intermodal yard serving Rochelle and the broader Chicago logistics corridor — part of the Global III rail complex.
Location: Rochelle, IL
Website: up.com
Operates the Port of Chicago district — oversees dock rehabilitation, barge logistics, and infrastructure investment.
Location: Chicago, IL
Website: portofchicago.com
Strategic Mississippi River barge port in Metro-East — handles millions of tons in agricultural, steel, and industrial cargo annually.
Location: Granite City / Madison County, IL
Website: americascentralport.com
Regional rail operator connecting southern Illinois with Indiana — serves freight and industrial clients along former L&N lines.
Location: Southern Illinois (Mount Vernon to Okawville region)
Website: evwr.com