- Must visit
Palmer Museum of Art
University museum with American art, rotating exhibitions, and sculpture outdoors. A strong stop for art and campus culture.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to State College, PA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 17
- Cheapest price on Nov 17
- $79
- Average ticket price on Nov 17
- $79
- Fastest journey on Nov 17
- 14 h 5 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 17
- 14 h 5 m
- Buses on Nov 17
- 1
- Distance
- 825 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to State College, PA 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 State College, PA will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
Fast buses
On Tue, Nov 17, we found 1 buses from Chicago, IL to State College, PA, including 1 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 17 the direct buses cover the 825 km distance in an average of 14 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 14 h 5 m .
On Tue, Nov 17 the slowest buses will take 14 h 5 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
1:15 AM 14h05 Chicago, IL 3:20 PM State College, PA $79 1 One-way 0 transfers
1:15 AM 14h05 Chicago, IL 3:20 PM State College, PA $79 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to State College, PA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 14h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $53 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:55, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 512 miles (825 km) distance in 12h 25m.
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 512 miles (825 km) |
Average bus duration 14h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 12h 25m |
First bus 1:55 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 63 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
Frequently asked questions about your Chicago, IL to State College, PA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to State College, PA can start from as little as $53 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to State College, PA is $86 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA leaves at 1:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to State College, PA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Chicago, IL to State College, PA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 02:20PM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 02:20PM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $123 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $83 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to State College, PA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to State College, PA buses for tomorrow, Monday, November 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:15 AM Chicago, IL | 14h05 | 3:20 PM State College, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Chicago, IL to State College, PA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to State College, PAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to State College, PA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $53. 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
12h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$57
FlixBus frequency
2 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
13h 10m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$53
Greyhound frequency
2 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chicago, IL and State College, PA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to State College, PA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and State College, PA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA:
- 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 State College, PA for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to State College, PA 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to State College, PA:
- 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 State College, PA:
- 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 State College, PA. 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 State College, PA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Complete guide to State College, PA
Things to do in State College, PA
Discover the best of State College, PA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect State College, PA trip today.
- Recommended
Penn State All-Sports Museum
Compact museum inside Beaver Stadium covering Penn State sports history, notable athletes, and interactive displays for fans and families.
- Recommended
Penn State Center for Science and the Schools at Discovery Space
Hands-on science center with planetarium shows, nature exhibits, and family-friendly learning on the Penn State campus.
- Must visit
Old Main Lawn
Beloved campus green with elm-lined walks, open lawns, and classic views of Penn State landmarks. Ideal for a first stroll.
- Must visit
The Arboretum at Penn State
Scenic university arboretum area with gardens, ponds, and easy walking paths. A peaceful favorite for nature and photography.
- Recommended
Downtown State College
Lively downtown district with independent shops, murals, theaters, and frequent events. A practical base for exploring the city on foot.
Lebanon Bologna Snack Tray
A Central Pennsylvania specialty: sliced Lebanon bologna, cheese, and sweet pickles on crackers. A salty-smoky snack tied to local tavern culture.
Chicken Corn Soup
Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken corn soup combines chicken, sweet corn, and often rivels. It is a comforting regional staple across central Pennsylvania.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Creamed Lima Beans
A regional side dish of stewed lima beans in a creamy butter sauce, common in Pennsylvania Dutch cooking and home-style restaurant menus.
The Cheese Shoppe
Long-running local favorite for sandwiches, soups, and baked goods with a cozy café feel near the Penn State campus.
Otto's Pub & Brewery
Historic brewpub and distillery pouring house beers and spirits alongside pub fare in a lively, traditional tavern setting.
Allen Street Grill
Upscale yet relaxed restaurant serving modern American dishes, steaks, seafood, and cocktails in a polished downtown setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a U.S. college town: hotels rise on football weekends, dining is mid-priced, and local transit is limited but low-cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $40-70 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 for cafe drinks if service is notable.
Plan your visit to State College, PA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in State College, PA.
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 State College, PA, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft and pickpocketing, especially around busy areas like downtown and near Penn State University. Scam risks include overpriced taxi services and unofficial ticket resellers. It’s advisable to use authorized transportation providers and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to State College, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to State College, PA 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 State College, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and State College, PA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to State College, PA
Most Chicago, IL to State College, PA buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport) station pair, with some services arriving at State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and State College, PA 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 State College
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to State College, PA leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to State College, PA 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.
Which State College, PA station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Buses from Chicago, IL to State College, PA most often arrive at State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport). Some services arrive at State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your State College, PA arrival station.
State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport)Fox Hill Rd, Pennsylvania, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport) from State College city centre
State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport) is 6 km from State College city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport) bus station facilities and services
State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport) 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 State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport). ATMs are available at State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport): The station is accessible for wheelchairs.
State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station)152 N Atherton St, State College, PA 16801, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station) from State College city centre
BusN, Nv, V, W, Bl, Cc, Ac, H · 4m · $3 · every ~26 min
State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station) bus station facilities and services
State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus 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 State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station). ATMs are available at State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station): Wheelchair accessible with assistance required.
Bus stations for Chicago, IL to State College, PA
Check bus stations information for Chicago, IL and State College, PA, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
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) . When arriving in State College, PA , you can end your journey in bus stations like State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport), State College, N Atherton St (Greyhound Bus Station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, which is located around 1 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at State College, Fox Hill Rd (Regional Airport), located 6 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to State College, PA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from State College, PA and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to State College, PA
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