- Must visit
Bowers Museum
Major Orange County museum campus with art exhibitions, family programs, and rotating contemporary and historical shows.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€203
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€213
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 d 4 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 d 13 h 20 m
Buses on Sep 20
4
Distance
2787 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA will cost around €213 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €203.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
+
FlixBus++FlixBus7:10 AM74h50Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL8:00 AMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2031One-way5 transfers- FlixBus+ · 5:05 PM52h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station7:30 PMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2111One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus+ · 11:10 PM58h50Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL8:00 AMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2181One-way3 transfers
- · · · 10:15 AM59h15Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL7:30 PMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2201One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · 5:05 PM52h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station7:30 PMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2111One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus+ · 11:10 PM58h50Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL8:00 AMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2181One-way3 transfers
- · · · 10:15 AM59h15Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL7:30 PMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2201One-way3 transfers
- +FlixBus++FlixBus7:10 AM74h50Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL8:00 AMSanta Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)€2031One-way5 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €339 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 8h 25m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €339, while a flight costs an average of €778.
Distance: 1731 miles (2787 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€339 Average price Cheapest | €778 Average price | €338 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
46h 45m Average total duration 46h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 25m Average total duration Fastest 6h 25m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 29h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA is a bus with an average price of €339.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA:
A bus is €439 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA costing on average €778.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 25m.
Other travel options to Santa Ana, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 46h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Santa Ana, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA 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 €339 compared to roughly €338 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-1.84. The journey takes 46h 15m versus 29h 7m 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 Santa Ana, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 74h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €155 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 59h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €161 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 54h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €176 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 52h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €172 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 58h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €159 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA buses for today, 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++FlixBus | 7:10 AM Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL | 74h50 | 8:00 AM Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) | 5 transfers | |
| · · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 59h15 | 7:30 PM Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · | 5:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 52h25 | 7:30 PM Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus+ · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 58h50 | 8:00 AM Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) | 3 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 Santa Ana, CA by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 46h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €339 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 07:40, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1731 miles (2787 km) distance in 46h 15m.
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
Distance 1731 miles (2787 km) |
Average bus duration 46h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price €339 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 46h 15m |
First bus 7:40 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Complete guide to Santa Ana, CA
Things to do in Santa Ana, CA
Discover the best of Santa Ana, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Ana, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Discovery Cube Orange County
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits, a Discovery Cube, and family-friendly learning in downtown Santa Ana.
- Recommended
Lyon Air Museum
Small local museum preserving Orange County aviation and aerospace history with artifacts, photos, and volunteer-led interpretation.
- Must visit
Downtown Santa Ana
Walkable downtown district with historic buildings, murals, shops, galleries, and regular arts and community events.
- Recommended
East 4th Street
Lively pedestrian-friendly arts corridor known for galleries, murals, boutiques, and monthly art-focused street activity.
- Recommended
Floral Park
Historic neighborhood of preserved early 20th-century homes, ideal for architecture walks and seasonal house tours.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA can start from as little as €339 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA is €339 ; 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 Santa Ana, CA is 46h 15m to travel the 1731 miles (2787 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 Santa Ana, CA leaves at 7:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA leaves at 11:10 PM.
When departing from Chicago, IL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL, Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL . When arriving in Santa Ana, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (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 Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station), located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Santa Ana, CA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 46h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Santa Ana, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
No, the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA, travelers should be alert to petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi or ride-share drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying in well-populated areas, using official transportation services, and safeguarding personal belongings help minimize risks.
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 Santa Ana, CA
Most Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA buses use the Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) to Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Santa Ana, CA 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 Santa Ana
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Santa Ana, CA leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA leave from Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
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 · €3 · 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, 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 · €3 · 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, Cumberland Blue Line StationCumberland Blue Line Station, Chicago, IL 60631, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station is 21 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
BusGreyhound US0150S · 30m · €2
SubwayBlue Line · 39m · €5 · every ~23 min
Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Cumberland Blue 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, Cumberland Blue Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station: Wheelchair accessible with elevator service.
Which Santa Ana, CA station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA arrive at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station). Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Ana, CA city centre.
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)Santa Ana, 1000 E Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) from Santa Ana city centre
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) is 1 km from Santa Ana city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) bus station facilities and services
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (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 Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station). ATMs are available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station): Bus access is available.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Santa Ana, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Santa Ana, CA and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Santa Ana, CA
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