- Must visit
Eskenazi Museum Of Art
Indiana University’s major art museum with global collections, notable architecture, and free public galleries.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a train costs an average of $69.
Distance: 123 miles (199 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$41 Average price Cheapest | $167 Average price | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 2m Average total duration 6h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL is a bus with an average price of $41 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL:
A bus is $126 (€103) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL costing on average $167 (€137).
The fastest way to travel from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Bloomington, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rockford, IL and Bloomington, IL including taking a bus and train.
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.
Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Compare prices and tickets Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:55, the last at 14:50. The fastest bus covers the 123 miles (199 km) distance in 2h 55m.
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 123 miles (199 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Buses per day 15 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 2h 55m |
First bus 3:55 AM |
Last bus 2:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 Bloomington
Things to do in Bloomington
Discover the best of Bloomington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bloomington trip today.
- Recommended
Monroe County History Center
Local history museum covering Bloomington and Monroe County through exhibits on community life, industry, and culture.
- Recommended
Mathers Museum Of World Cultures
Indiana University museum focused on world cultures, material culture, and changing academic exhibitions.
- Must visit
Kirkwood Avenue
Bloomington’s best-known downtown street, lined with shops, venues, and a lively college-town atmosphere.
- Must visit
Courthouse Square
Walkable downtown core centered on the courthouse, popular for events, people-watching, and historic character.
- Must visit
Indiana University Bloomington Campus
Scenic limestone campus with memorable quads, gates, and paths that make it a highlight of the city.
Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A Hoosier classic: a pounded, breaded pork cutlet fried crisp and served on a bun, often comically larger than the bread.
- Vegetarian
Sugar Cream Pie
Indiana's state pie, made with a rich custard-style filling of cream, sugar, and vanilla in a flaky crust.
Biscuits And Sausage Gravy
A hearty Midwestern breakfast staple with soft biscuits covered in peppery sausage gravy, common in diners around southern Indiana.
Janko's Little Zagreb
A well-known old-school steakhouse famed for large steaks, red-sauce dishes, and a celebratory, traditional dining room.
Upland Brewing Co.
A long-running Bloomington brewery and restaurant known for Indiana craft beer, pub fare, and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Nick's English Hut
An iconic Bloomington institution serving burgers, sandwiches, and classic pub food in a historic college-town atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Generally moderate for U.S. travelers. Casual dining and coffee are affordable, while hotels and fine dining can be pricier during peak university or event dates.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 18-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50-90+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 15-20% for delivery; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; round up or tip 10-15% for taxis; a few dollars for hotel staff.
FAQs: Bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL 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 Bloomington, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL can start from as little as $34 (€28) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL is $41 (€34) ; 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 Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL is 2h 55m to travel the 123 miles (199 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 Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL leaves at 3:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL leaves at 2:50 PM.
A trip to Bloomington, IL from Rockford, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rockford, IL and Bloomington, IL including taking a bus and train.
No, the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bloomington, IL are:
- McLean County Museum of History, a museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of McLean County with exhibits and educational programs
- Miller Park Zoo, a family-friendly zoo featuring a variety of animals and interactive exhibits
- David Davis Mansion State Historic Site, a restored Victorian mansion offering guided tours and insights into 19th-century life
- Constitution Trail, a scenic multi-use trail perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling through Bloomington-Normal
- Prairie Aviation Museum, a museum showcasing aviation history with aircraft displays and educational exhibits.
The best things to do in Bloomington, IL include:
- Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, a venue hosting a variety of performances including theater, music, and dance
- Upper Limits Rock Gym, an indoor climbing facility offering climbing challenges for all skill levels
- Ewing Cultural Center, a beautiful estate with gardens and cultural events
- Grady's Family Fun Park, an amusement park with go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games
- Rader Family Farms, a seasonal attraction featuring a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and family-friendly activities.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL.
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 Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL.
No, luggage for the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL.
Since neither Rockford, IL nor Bloomington, IL 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.
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 Bloomington, IL, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi services or ride-shares can occur, so using licensed transportation providers is recommended. Travelers should also stay aware of their surroundings at night and avoid isolated areas to ensure personal safety.
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 Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL
Most Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL buses use the Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit) to Bloomington, Normal Railway Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Rockford, IL and Bloomington, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Rockford
Arrival bus stations in Bloomington
Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit)
Most popular bus connections from Rockford, IL
More options for your journey from Rockford, IL to Bloomington, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bloomington, IL and Rockford, IL
Most popular bus connections to Bloomington, IL
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