Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA bus

Fri, Nov 07
+ Add return
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
SARFA S.L.
1,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
SARFA S.L.
1,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €139. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €139, and a bus costs an average of €207.

Distance: 1803 miles (2903 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight

€207

Average price

€186

Average price

€139

Average price

Cheapest

54h 20m

Average total duration

53h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

46h 10m

Average total duration

45h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 42m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, 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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Nov 07
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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

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Buses from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 53h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $254 (€207) but you can travel from only $171 (€139) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 09:45, the last at 22:30. The fastest bus covers the 1803 miles (2903 km) distance in 53h 50m.

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
Flight from $171 (€139)
Distance
1803 miles (2903 km)
Average bus duration
53h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$254 (€207)
Buses per day
2
Fastest bus
53h 50m
First bus
09:45
Last bus
22:30
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
Flight from $171 (€139)

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, 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 Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $239 (€194) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is $239 (€194); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA bus time is 57 h 50 min   covering the 1800 mile (2903 km) long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10: 35PM.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is November.
You have options as you can travel between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA 3 different ways: train, bus or flight.
No, the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Santa Barbara, CA are:
  • Santa Barbara Mission, a historic Spanish mission known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens
  • Stearns Wharf, a popular pier offering shops, restaurants, and scenic ocean views
  • Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a 78-acre garden showcasing California native plants and picturesque landscapes
  • Santa Barbara Zoo, a family-friendly attraction featuring diverse animal exhibits and interactive experiences
  • Lotusland, a unique botanical garden with exotic plants and themed gardens.
The best things to do in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • State Street, a vibrant downtown area filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment options
  • Explore the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from around the world
  • Take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards and excellent wines
  • Enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and city
  • Visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which highlights the region's rich maritime history.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.
    No, luggage for the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

    Chicago
    Santa Barbara
    The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip from Chicago to Santa Barbara.
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    information
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
    information

    Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Chicago, IL

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