Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA train

Sun, Jun 14
+ Add return
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus for Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $675. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 50h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $675, and a bus costs an average of $675.

Distance: 1790 miles (2882 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Driving

$675

Average price

Cheapest

$419

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

51h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

50h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

30h 36m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $675 (€548).
The fastest way to travel from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 39m.

Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 50h 55m.

Yes, you can take a bus between Bloomington, IL and San Francisco, CA.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.

Compare prices and tickets Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA by bus

Compare 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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Jun 14
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA

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Icon of train

Take a train from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA and enjoy the approximately 1790 miles (2882 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 09:46.

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
Bus from $675 (€548)
Distance
1790 miles (2882 km)
Trains per day
6
First train
4:55 AM
Last train
9:46 AM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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
Bus from $675 (€548)

Complete guide to San Francisco

Things to do in San Francisco

Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.

  • Must visit

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Major modern and contemporary art museum with an outstanding collection, rotating exhibitions, and a central SoMa location.

  • Must visit

Exploratorium

Hands-on science and perception museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.

  • Recommended

de Young Museum

Fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park known for American art, textiles, global collections, and its observation tower.

United States Dollar

One of the priciest U.S. cities. Hotels, dining, parking, and taxes are high, though casual food options exist.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 12-20 for fast food, food trucks, or a simple cafe meal.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 90+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a basic latte.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 18-20% standard, 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotels: USD 2-5 for housekeeping, USD 1-2 per bag for porters.

FAQs: Trains from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The first train from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The distance by train from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA is 1790 miles (2882 km).
The last train from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 9:46 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA.
The train station in Bloomington, IL that goes to San Francisco, CA is Uptown Station, Normal, IL, which connects to Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $675 (€548).
The train journey from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA is considered scenic as it offers views of diverse landscapes, including the rolling plains of Illinois, the expansive fields of the Midwest, the dramatic Rocky Mountains, and the striking Sierra Nevada before reaching the iconic Bay Area.
In San Francisco, CA, you can ride a cable car through steep streets, explore vibrant murals in the Mission District, and visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum. Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero for views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley. Key sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Chinatown, each offering unique experiences from panoramic views to vibrant culture and cuisine.
Three to four days in San Francisco, CA, allows you to explore major attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, while also enjoying some of the city's renowned dining and cultural experiences.
No, you cannot take the train from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Bloomington, IL nor San Francisco, CA 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.
Popular day trips by train from San Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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.

More options for your journey from Bloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA

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

Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and Bloomington, IL

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Francisco, CABloomington, IL to San Francisco, CA train

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