- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $103. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 8h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $103, and a train costs an average of $226.
Distance: 1803 miles (2903 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$255 Average price | $278 Average price | $196 Average price Cheapest |
53h 38m Average total duration 53h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54h 48m Average total duration 54h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 9m Average total duration Fastest 8h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $196 (€160).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $59 (€48) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $255 (€209).
A flight is $82 (€67) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $278 (€227).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 8h 9m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 53h 8m.
Train takes on average 54h 18m.
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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 64h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $263 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 47h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $250 |
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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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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 $250 (€205) but you can travel from only $103 (€84) 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 $103 (€84)
Distance 1803 miles (2903 km) |
Average bus duration 53h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $250 (€205) |
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 $103 (€84)
Complete guide to Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum famous for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and extensive science collections that appeal to both adults and children.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park featuring a submarine, space exhibits, engineering displays, and immersive family-friendly experiences.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
The city’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, events, and major skyline views that define modern Chicago.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, hotels, and frequent first-time visitor photo stops.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Highly popular waterfront promenade with architecture views, bridges, and one of the best urban walks in the city.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
Gene & Georgetti
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is manageable, but hotels, attractions, and downtown dining can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
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 $250 (€205) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is $255 (€209) ; 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.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Santa Barbara, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 47h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL is October.
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, the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, IL.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
- Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
- Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
- Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
- Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
- Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
- Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
- Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
- Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
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.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Chicago, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Chicago, 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 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
Santa Barbara, Bus station
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
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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