- Recommended
McHenry Museum
Local history museum in a restored library building with exhibits on Modesto, agriculture, and community life.
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Modesto, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 9h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $70 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 16:10. The fastest bus covers the 164 miles (264 km) distance in 9h 10m.
Distance 164 miles (264 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 9h 10m |
First bus 12:10 AM |
Last bus 4:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Luis Obispo, CA to Modesto, CA.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 05:33PM | Duration 9h53 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 09:42PM | Duration 5h42 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $75 |
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Modesto, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Modesto, CA trip today.
Local history museum in a restored library building with exhibits on Modesto, agriculture, and community life.
Children's museum with hands-on science and play exhibits designed for families seeking an interactive indoor visit.
College museum featuring natural history displays, fossils, live animals, and planetarium programming for curious visitors.
Lively downtown district known for historic buildings, events, shopping, and walkable blocks that reflect Modesto's civic core.
Central park with mature trees, sports areas, and the Gallo Center nearby, making it a pleasant stop in downtown Modesto.
Popular regional park with a lake, trails, picnic areas, and water activities, ideal for a longer outdoor visit.
Tri-tip barbecue is a Central California staple: beef sirloin grilled over red oak and sliced smoky and juicy, reflecting the region’s ranching and casual cookout culture.
Al pastor tacos are widely loved locally, with spit-roasted pork, chile, and pineapple in a style rooted in California’s Mexican food culture and common across Modesto taquerias.
Wet burritos are a hearty Central Valley favorite: a large stuffed burrito covered in enchilada sauce and cheese, popular in family-run Mexican restaurants.
Warm, polished spot serving classic Italian dishes, pasta, and steaks with an old-school neighborhood restaurant feel.
Long-running local burger stand famous for charbroiled burgers, fries, and a classic Modesto fast-casual atmosphere.
Casual local favorite for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican comfort foods in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Moderate for California inland cities. Hotels often cost less than coastal hubs, while dining and car-based transport are average for U.S. travelers.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, about 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafes if service is provided.
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 Modesto, CA.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, CA to Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Luis Obispo, CA to Modesto, CA buses use the San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) to Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) station pair. Use this guide to compare San Luis Obispo, CA and Modesto, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) is 1 km from San Luis Obispo city centre. Public transport options include:
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum). ATMs are available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum).
Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum).
Available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum): Basic accessibility features available.
Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM available near the ticket office.
Ticket office support is available at Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc).
Available at Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc): Wheelchair accessible entrance and facilities.
Check bus stations information for San Luis Obispo, CA and Modesto, CA, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
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