- Recommended
University Museum, Southern Illinois University
University museum with rotating art, history, and science exhibitions. A practical stop for learning about the region and campus culture.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL
USAUSA
Take a bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL and enjoy the approximately 313 miles (505 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 15:50.
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 313 miles (505 km) |
First bus 1:40 AM |
Last bus 3:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 5 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 Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL.
The earliest bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 1:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 3:50 PM.
Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 22h40 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price €90 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 22h40 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price €110 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 15h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €120 |
Live departures
Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1:15 PM Rockford, IL | 22h40 | 11:55 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Complete guide to Carbondale, IL
Things to do in Carbondale, IL
Discover the best of Carbondale, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carbondale, IL trip today.
- Recommended
Sharp Museum
Campus art museum showing contemporary and historical works in curated exhibitions. Worth visiting for accessible regional and academic art programming.
Glove Factory Gallery
Student-focused gallery presenting changing exhibitions by local and visiting artists. A smaller venue that offers a fresh look at current creative work.
- Recommended
Turley Park
Large community park with a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and open lawns. It is one of Carbondale’s best all-purpose outdoor spaces.
- Recommended
South Illinois Avenue
Downtown main street corridor with shops, events, murals, and easy walking access to local culture. A practical area for exploring the city center.
Touch of Nature Trail
Wooded university nature area with short trails and wildlife viewing. It offers a calm walking break close to campus and central Carbondale.
- Gluten-free
Southern Illinois Smoked Pulled Pork
A Southern Illinois specialty: hickory-smoked pork shoulder, chopped or sliced, prized for slow cooking and tangy regional barbecue sauces.
Fried Catfish
Traditional Midwestern catfish, usually cornmeal-coated and fried. It reflects the region's river foodways and is common at local fish houses and suppers.
- Vegetarian
Corn Fritters
A classic county-fair treat of battered and fried sweet corn kernels. Popular across Southern Illinois as a seasonal snack and side.
Longbranch Cafe and Bakery
Popular local cafe serving coffee, breakfast, and lunch with a cozy, artsy feel and a strong following in central Carbondale.
Quatro's Deep Pan Pizza
Long-running brewpub known for house beers, pizza, burgers, and a lively downtown atmosphere popular with locals and students.
17th Street Barbecue
Casual Southern-style spot known for smoked meats, barbecue plates, and hearty comfort food in an easygoing setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for the US Midwest; hotels can rise on event weekends, but dining and local transport are usually lower than in major US tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $35-60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for drip coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and tipping is optional but appreciated at cafes.
Plan your visit to Carbondale, IL
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 Carbondale, IL.
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 Carbondale, IL, travelers should remain aware of petty theft and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in parking areas near popular venues like Southern Illinois University. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Scams are generally low, but travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodations and verify legitimacy before committing. Staying informed about local news and following standard travel safety practices ensures a secure visit.
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 Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, 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 Carbondale, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a between Rockford, IL and Carbondale, 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL
Most Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL buses use the Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit) to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Rockford, IL and Carbondale, 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 Carbondale
Which Rockford, IL station do buses to Carbondale, IL leave from?
Buses from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL leave from Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit). The station is 6 miles (11 km) from Rockford, IL city centre at N Lyford Rd, Rockford, IL, USA.
Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit)N Lyford Rd, Rockford, IL, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit) from Rockford city centre
Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit) is 11 km from Rockford city centre. Public transport options include:
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Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit) bus station facilities and services
Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit) 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 Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit). ATMs are available at Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit): Access ramps available for buses.
Which Carbondale, IL station do buses from Rockford, IL arrive at?
Buses from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL arrive at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station. Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station is from Carbondale, IL city centre.
Carbondale, Amtrak Train StationCarbondale, Illinois, 401 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station from Carbondale city centre
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Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station bus station facilities and services
Carbondale, Amtrak 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 Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station. ATMs are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Wheelchair accessible entry and services provided.
Bus stations for Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL
Check bus stations information for Rockford, IL and Carbondale, IL, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit), which is located around 6 miles (11 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Rockford, IL
More options for your journey from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carbondale, IL and Rockford, IL
Most popular bus connections to Carbondale, IL
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