- Recommended
University Museum, Southern Illinois University
University museum with rotating art, history, and science exhibitions. A practical stop for learning about the region and campus culture.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$113
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$116
Fastest journey on Sep 19
8 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
11 h 55 m
Buses on Sep 19
2
Distance
478 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL will cost around $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $113.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus5:05 PM8h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:35 AMCarbondale, Amtrak Train Station$1131One-way1 transfer
· +FlixBus10:15 AM15h20Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL1:35 AMCarbondale, Amtrak Train Station$1181One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:05 PM8h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:35 AMCarbondale, Amtrak Train Station$1131One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus10:15 AM15h20Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL1:35 AMCarbondale, Amtrak Train Station$1181One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $70 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $70, while a bus costs an average of $105.
Distance: 297 miles (478 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$105 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $69 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 3m Average total duration 9h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 59m Average total duration Fastest 5h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is a train with an average price of $70.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL:
A train is $35 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL costing on average $105.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is by train with an average journey time of 5h 29m.
Other travel options to Carbondale, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $105 compared to roughly $69 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-36.18. The journey takes 9h 33m versus 4h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 20h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $183 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 16h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $200 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $84 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · +FlixBus | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 15h20 | 1:35 AM Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 8h30 | 1:35 AM Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
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Sep 25
Why should you book Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 9h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $50 but you can travel from only $30 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 297 miles (478 km) distance in 7h 55m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $30
Distance 297 miles (478 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 7h 55m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $30
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, ILYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $30. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
7h 55m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$59
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Duration
9h 55m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$50
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Carbondale, IL
Things to do in Carbondale, IL
Discover the best of Carbondale, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carbondale, IL trip today.
- Recommended
Sharp Museum
Campus art museum showing contemporary and historical works in curated exhibitions. Worth visiting for accessible regional and academic art programming.
Glove Factory Gallery
Student-focused gallery presenting changing exhibitions by local and visiting artists. A smaller venue that offers a fresh look at current creative work.
- Recommended
Turley Park
Large community park with a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and open lawns. It is one of Carbondale’s best all-purpose outdoor spaces.
- Recommended
South Illinois Avenue
Downtown main street corridor with shops, events, murals, and easy walking access to local culture. A practical area for exploring the city center.
Touch of Nature Trail
Wooded university nature area with short trails and wildlife viewing. It offers a calm walking break close to campus and central Carbondale.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Carbondale, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL can start from as little as $50 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is $105 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is 7h 55m to travel the 297 miles (478 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 10:00 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Carbondale, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Chicago, IL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL, Chicago, 95th Red Line Station . When arriving in Carbondale, IL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Carbondale, IL from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Carbondale, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Carbondale, IL, travelers should remain aware of petty theft and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in parking areas near popular venues like Southern Illinois University. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Scams are generally low, but travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodations and verify legitimacy before committing. Staying informed about local news and following standard travel safety practices ensures a secure visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Most Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Carbondale
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Carbondale, IL leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL leave from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station95th Red Line Station, Chicago, IL 60620, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station is 14 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
BusGreyhound US0100 · 20m · $2
29 · 47m · $4 · every ~11 min
29 · 48m · $4 · every ~11 min
SubwayRed Line · 24m · $6 · every ~23 min
Red Line · 25m · $6 · every ~23 min
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances available.
Which Carbondale, IL station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL arrive at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station. Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station is from Carbondale, IL city centre.
Carbondale, Amtrak Train StationCarbondale, Illinois, 401 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station from Carbondale city centre
TRUE
Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station bus station facilities and services
Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station. ATMs are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Wheelchair accessible entry and services provided.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carbondale, IL and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Carbondale, IL
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