The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Cheapest price on Sep 15
$95
Average ticket price on Sep 15
$101
Fastest journey on Sep 15
22 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
1 d 22 m
Buses on Sep 15
8
Distance
1438 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL without transferring at least once.
· 10:15 AM26h00Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL1:15 PMGainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL$951One-way1 transfer
FlixBus+
1:00 PM23h15Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:15 PMGainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL$951One-way1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus6:00 PM23h00Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:00 PMGainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station$951One-way1 transfer
· +
FlixBus10:15 AM30h45Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL6:00 PMGainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station$961One-way2 transfers
FlixBus · FlixBus+
6:00 PM29h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:30 AMGainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL$961One-way2 transfers
+
FlixBus6:10 AM22h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station5:15 AMGainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station$981One-way1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus6:00 PM23h00Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:00 PMGainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station$951One-way1 transfer
FlixBus+
1:00 PM23h15Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:15 PMGainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL$951One-way1 transfer
· 10:15 AM26h00Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL1:15 PMGainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL$951One-way1 transfer
+
FlixBus11:10 PM27h30Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL3:40 AMGainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station$1151One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $154 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 23h 2m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $154, while a bus costs an average of $154.
Distance: 893 miles (1438 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$154 Average price Cheapest | $207 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
23h 2m Average total duration Fastest 22h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL:
A bus is $419 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL costing on average $573.
Other travel options to Gainesville, FL take longer:
Bus takes on average 22h 32m.
Tickets start at around $154 compared to roughly $207 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $54. The journey takes 22h 32m versus 15h 52m 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 Gainesville, FL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 27h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 22h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 27h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 27h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 23h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 32h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 21h30 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 23h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 23h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 03:40AM | Duration 27h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 03:40AM | Duration 27h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $95 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL buses for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
+ FlixBus | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 22h05 | 5:15 AM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station | 1 transfer | |
· + FlixBus | 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 27h30 | 2:25 PM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station | 2 transfers | |
· + FlixBus | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 27h10 | 2:25 PM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station | 2 transfers | |
· | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 26h00 | 1:15 PM Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 1:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 23h15 | 1:15 PM Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 23h00 | 6:00 PM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 29h30 | 12:30 AM Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 27h50 | 3:40 AM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station | 1 transfer | |
· · | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 24h40 | 12:30 AM Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 27h50 | 3:40 AM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station | 1 transfer | |
+ FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 27h30 | 3:40 AM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station | 1 transfer | |
· · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 24h20 | 12:30 AM Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter), FL | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 27h30 | 3:40 AM Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer 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 Gainesville, FL by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Sep 15
Sep 16
Sep 17
Sep 18
Sep 19
Sep 20
Sep 21
Why should you book Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL buses with Omio?
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 Gainesville, FL.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL.
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 Gainesville, FL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Buses from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL run on average 8 times per day, taking around 22h 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $102 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 893 miles (1438 km) distance in 19h 10m.
Distance 893 miles (1438 km) |
Average bus duration 22h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $102 |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 19h 10m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FLYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $102. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
Greyhound
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Florida Museum of Natural History, featuring extensive exhibits on Florida's flora, fauna, and cultural heritage
- Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, a 62-acre garden showcasing diverse plant collections and scenic landscapes
- Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park, a unique geological formation with a large sinkhole and nature trails
- Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, offering wildlife viewing, hiking, and panoramic views of the prairie ecosystem
- Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, housing a diverse collection of artworks from around the world.
- Explore the vibrant local art scene at the Gainesville Artwalk, featuring galleries and live performances
- Visit the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, home to a variety of animal species and educational programs
- Enjoy a day of outdoor activities at Lake Wauburg, offering boating, picnicking, and climbing walls
- Discover the historic Haile Homestead, known for its "Talking Walls" filled with writings from the 19th century
- Attend a performance at the Hippodrome Theatre, showcasing plays, films, and special events.
- 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.
- 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).
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Most Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station station pair, with some services arriving at Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Gainesville, FL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Gainesville, FL leave from?
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:
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.
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:
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.
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:
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 Gainesville, FL station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Getting to Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station from Gainesville city centre
Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station bus station facilities and services
Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available at the station. ATMs are available at Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gainesville, Rosa Parks Transfer station: The station is wheelchair accessible.
Getting to Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter) from Gainesville city centre
Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter) is 7 km from Gainesville city centre. Public transport options include:
Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter) bus station facilities and services
Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter) 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 Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter). ATMs are available at Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gainesville, NW 23rd St (North Walmart Supercenter): Bus stop has basic accessibility features.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Gainesville, FL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
