- 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$265
Average price
$269
Fastest journey
2 d 35 m
Average duration
2 d 8 h 23 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
2903 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $269 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $265.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 3 times.
FlixBus+
· · 1:50 PM64h10Santa Barbara, Bus station8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$2651One-way4 transfers- FlixBus+ · · 1:50 PM48h35Santa Barbara, Bus station4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2741One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 1:50 PM48h35Santa Barbara, Bus station4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2741One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 1:50 PM64h10Santa Barbara, Bus station8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$2651One-way4 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 7 times per day, taking around 53h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $251 but you can travel from only $104 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1803 miles (2903 km) distance in 47h 40m.
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
Flight from $104
Distance 1803 miles (2903 km) |
Average bus duration 53h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $251 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 47h 40m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 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
Flight from $104
Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 48h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $265 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 64h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $265 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 47h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $252 |
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:45 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 47h40 | 9:25 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $251 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is $256 ; 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is 47h 40m to travel the 1803 miles (2903 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:10 PM.
When departing from Santa Barbara, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Santa Barbara, Bus station, Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA . When arriving in Chicago, IL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Barbara, Bus station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL, located 3 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
No, the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, 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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA 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 Santa Barbara
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL leave from Santa Barbara, Bus station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at Santa Barbara, CA, USA.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara, Bus station bus station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, Bus station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located inside the station building.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, Bus station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Wheelchair accessible routes available.
Which Chicago, IL station do buses from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA 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 Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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