Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL bus

Wed, Aug 05
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FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $77. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 7h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $77, and a bus costs an average of $110.

Distance: 313 miles (505 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$131

Average price

$102

Average price

Cheapest

$69

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

21h 39m

Average total duration

21h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL is a train with an average price of $102.

This is compared to other travel options from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL:

A train is $29 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL costing on average $131.

The fastest way to travel from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL is by train with an average journey time of 7h 19m.

Other travel options to Carbondale, IL take longer:

Bus takes on average 21h 9m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rockford, IL and Carbondale, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users.
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 Carbondale, IL Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:15PM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
22h40
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$110
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:15PM
Arrival Time
12:55PM
Duration
22h40
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$134
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:30PM
Arrival Time
06:35AM
Duration
15h05
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$146

Compare prices and tickets Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Wed
Aug 05
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Aug 08
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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL

USAUSA
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Buses from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 21h 9m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $110 but you can travel from only $77 by train.

The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 15:50. The fastest bus covers the 313 miles (505 km) distance in 15h 5m.

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
Train from $77
Distance
313 miles (505 km)
Average bus duration
21h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
$110
Buses per day
3
Fastest bus
15h 5m
First bus
1:40 AM
Last bus
3:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Thu
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $77

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL can start from as little as $110 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL is $131 ; 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 Carbondale, IL is 15h 5m to travel the 313 miles (505 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 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.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Rockford, N Lyford Rd (Rockford Mass Transit), IL, 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.
A trip to Carbondale, IL from Rockford, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 15h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rockford, IL and Carbondale, IL including taking a train and bus.
No, the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Rockford, IL to 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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL.
No, luggage for the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Since neither Rockford, IL nor Carbondale, 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL 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 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.

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, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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.

Most popular bus connections from Rockford, IL

Bus Rockford, IL - Chicago, IL
Bus Rockford, IL - Milwaukee, WI

More options for your journey from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Trains from Rockford, IL to Carbondale, IL
Tickets and more information for coaches to Rockford, IL
HomeBusesBuses in USARockford, IL to Carbondale, IL bus

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