- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15
Cheapest price on Sep 15
$326
Average ticket price on Sep 15
$332
Fastest journey on Sep 15
1 d 2 h 12 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
1 d 7 h 8 m
Buses on Sep 15
2
Distance
1619 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL will cost around $332 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $326.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 4 times.
8:40 AM26h12San Marcos, TX10:52 AMChicago, IL$3261One-way4 transfers- 10:35 PM36h03San Marcos, TX10:38 AMChicago, IL$3381One-way4 transfers
- 8:40 AM26h12San Marcos, TX10:52 AMChicago, IL$3261One-way4 transfers
- 10:35 PM36h03San Marcos, TX10:38 AMChicago, IL$3381One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $424 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 29h 7m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $424, while a train costs an average of $424.
Distance: 1005 miles (1619 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$424 Average price Cheapest | $238 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
29h 7m Average total duration Fastest 28h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $424.
The fastest way to travel from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL is by train with an average journey time of 28h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Marcos, TX and Chicago, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 10:52AM | Duration 26h12 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $326 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 10:52AM | Duration 23h32 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $326 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 10:38AM | Duration 36h03 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $338 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 10:38AM | Duration 35h08 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $338 |
Live departures
San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL buses for today, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:20 AM San Marcos, TX | 23h32 | 10:52 AM Chicago, IL | 4 transfers | |
| 11:30 PM San Marcos, TX | 35h08 | 10:38 AM Chicago, IL | 4 transfers | |
| Tuesday, September 15 | |||||
| 8:40 AM San Marcos, TX | 26h12 | 10:52 AM Chicago, IL | 4 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Marcos, TX to Chicago, 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.
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Sep 15
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Why should you book San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Take a bus from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL and enjoy the approximately 1005 miles (1619 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:30.
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 $235
Distance 1005 miles (1619 km) |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $235
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Johnnie's Beef
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Superdawg Drive-In
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
Alinea
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
FAQs: Bus from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL
Most San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL buses use the San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare San Marcos, TX and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Marcos
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Which San Marcos, TX station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?
Buses from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL leave from San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Marcos, TX city centre at San Marcos, Texas, 338 S Guadalupe St & San Marcos Intermodal Station, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA.
San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station)San Marcos, Texas, 338 S Guadalupe St & San Marcos Intermodal Station, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station) from San Marcos city centre
TRUE
San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station) bus station facilities and services
San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos 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: Nearby eateries available within walking distance.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station). ATMs are available at San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Marcos, S Guadalupe St (San Marcos Station): Wheelchair accessible bus stops.
Which Chicago, IL station do buses from San Marcos, TX arrive at?
Buses from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL most often arrive at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Some services arrive at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chicago, IL arrival station.
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.
Most popular bus connections from San Marcos, TX
More options for your journey from San Marcos, TX to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and San Marcos, TX
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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