- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of the premier railroad museums in North America, with restored locomotives, railcars, and exhibits on California and transcontinental rail history in Old Sacramento.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$208
Average price
$227
Fastest journey
1 d 22 h 30 m
Average duration
2 d 13 h 53 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
2878 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA 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 Sacramento, CA will cost around $227 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $208.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
FlixBus+
· +FlixBus5:15 PM65h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:25 AMSacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA$2081One-way4 transfers- · · · 10:15 AM72h10Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL8:25 AMSacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA$2091One-way5 transfers
- · · · 10:15 AM66h15Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL2:30 AMSacramento, Bus Terminal$2141One-way3 transfers
- · +FlixBus+10:30 PM83h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:25 AMSacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA$2181One-way5 transfers
- · · 12:25 PM46h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:55 AMSacramento, Bus Terminal$2341One-way2 transfers
- · · 12:25 PM46h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:55 AMSacramento, Bus Terminal$2341One-way2 transfers
- · · · 11:10 PM59h20Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL8:30 AMSacramento, Bus Terminal$2821One-way5 transfers
- FlixBus+ · +FlixBus5:15 PM65h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:25 AMSacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA$2081One-way4 transfers
- · · · 10:15 AM66h15Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL2:30 AMSacramento, Bus Terminal$2141One-way3 transfers
- · · · 10:15 AM72h10Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL8:25 AMSacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA$2091One-way5 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $155. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $155, and a train costs an average of $115.
Distance: 1788 miles (2878 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$360 Average price Cheapest | $535 Average price | $445 Average price | $426 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
59h 10m Average total duration 58h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 51h 58m Average total duration 51h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 19m Average total duration Fastest 7h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 29h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is a bus with an average price of $360 (€293).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA:
A bus is $85 (€69) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA costing on average $445 (€363).
A bus is $175 (€142) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA costing on average $535 (€436).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 19m.
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 51h 28m.
Bus takes on average 58h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Sacramento, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 59h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $529 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 59h20 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $344 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 66h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $209 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 08:55AM | Duration 46h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $212 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 66h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $158 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 09:30AM | Duration 66h15 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $363 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 10:30AM | Duration 66h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $219 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:01PM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 46h54 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $428 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 65h10 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $208 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 46h30 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $336 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:01PM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 46h54 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $217 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 83h55 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $217 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 59h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $272 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA buses for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 72h10 | 8:25 AM Sacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA | 5 transfers | |
| · · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 66h15 | 2:30 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 3 transfers | |
| · · | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 46h30 | 8:55 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · +FlixBus | 5:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 65h10 | 8:25 AM Sacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA | 4 transfers | |
| · +FlixBus+ | 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 83h55 | 8:25 AM Sacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton), CA | 5 transfers | |
| · · · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 59h20 | 8:30 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 5 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
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Why should you book Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 58h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $155 (€126) but you can travel from only $115 (€94) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:49. The fastest bus covers the 1788 miles (2878 km) distance in 46h 30m.
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 $115 (€94)
Distance 1788 miles (2878 km) |
Average bus duration 58h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $155 (€126) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 46h 30m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:49 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 6 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 $115 (€94)
Bus providers: Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA with Greyhound for as low as $115 (€94). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 Duration
46h 30m
Cheapest Price
$155 (€126)
Greyhound frequency
3 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 Sacramento
Things to do in Sacramento
Discover the best of Sacramento — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento trip today.
- Must visit
Crocker Art Museum
The oldest public art museum west of the Mississippi, known for California art, European paintings, ceramics, and a respected rotating exhibition program.
- Must visit
California State Capitol Museum
Museum rooms inside the historic state capitol interpret California political history, architecture, and restored government spaces.
- Must visit
Capitol Park
A central park surrounding the State Capitol with memorials, gardens, mature trees, and one of the best easy walks in downtown Sacramento.
- Must visit
Old Sacramento Waterfront
The city’s most famous walking area, blending boardwalk-style streets, river views, historic storefronts, and easy access to major attractions.
- Recommended
Midtown Sacramento
A lively central district known for murals, tree-lined streets, independent shops, nightlife, and a strong local creative atmosphere.
Farm-To-Fork Seasonal Plate
A seasonal dish built around produce, cheese, and meats from the Sacramento Valley. It reflects Sacramento’s identity as California’s Farm-To-Fork Capital.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Sacramento Delta Asparagus
Tender asparagus grown in the nearby Delta, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is one of the region’s most iconic spring ingredients.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
California-style beef tri-tip, usually smoked or grilled and sliced. It is a popular regional barbecue dish often served with beans, salad, and bread.
Mulvaney's B&L
A respected Midtown restaurant celebrated for seasonal Farm-To-Fork cooking, local sourcing, and a warm but polished atmosphere.
The Firehouse Restaurant
A long-established fine dining restaurant in Old Sacramento known for elegant service, historic atmosphere, and an extensive wine program.
Tower Cafe
A well-known casual Sacramento favorite with eclectic global dishes, generous brunches, and a lively garden setting next to the Tower Theatre.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Dining and coffee are fairly priced, while hotels can rise during events and peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants before tax; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 as appropriate.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA 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 Sacramento, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA can start from as little as $155 (€126) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is $360 (€293) ; 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 Sacramento, CA is 46h 30m to travel the 1788 miles (2878 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 Sacramento, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA leaves at 11:49 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Sacramento, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Sacramento, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Sacramento, CA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 46h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Sacramento, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA for bus company Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Sacramento, CA are:
- California State Capitol Museum, a historic building housing the state government and offering tours of its legislative chambers and exhibits
- Crocker Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of art from California and around the world, including European, Asian, and contemporary works
- Old Sacramento State Historic Park, a preserved district with Gold Rush-era buildings, museums, and shops along the Sacramento River
- Sacramento Zoo, home to over 500 animals from around the globe, focusing on conservation and education
- American River Parkway, a scenic 23-mile parkway offering trails for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing along the American River.
The best things to do in Sacramento, CA include:
- Old Sacramento Waterfront, a preserved historic district with shops, restaurants, and museums reflecting the Gold Rush era
- American River Bike Trail, a scenic 32-mile path perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying nature
- Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, a reconstructed 19th-century fort offering insights into California's early pioneer history
- Midtown Farmers Market, a vibrant market showcasing local produce, crafts, and food vendors every Saturday
- Tower Bridge, an iconic vertical lift bridge offering picturesque views of the Sacramento River and city skyline.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Sacramento, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Sacramento, CA 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 Sacramento, CA 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 Sacramento, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Old Sacramento and transit stations. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use official transportation options, avoid displaying valuables openly, and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Sacramento, CA
Chicago
Sacramento
The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) for your trip from Chicago to Sacramento.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Sacramento is Sacramento, Bus Terminal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sacramento, Bus Terminal for your trip to Sacramento from Chicago.
Sacramento, Bus Terminal
information
Sacramento, 2nd Street / J Street (Baker & Hamilton)
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Sacramento, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sacramento, CA and Chicago, IL
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