Tickets from San Jose to Chicago by Bus or Train
Only $242 for Amtrak train tickets on a 53h 49m trip. Choose a date, or explore more travel options below.
Buy your tickets by selecting from the best options that fit your schedule
| Companies | Departures | Duration | Service | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4:30 AM->2:39 PM | 53h 49m | 1 Transfer | |
 | 8:05 AM->3:30 PM | 53h 25m | 4 Transfers | |
 | 12:50 PM->8:20 AM | 55h 55m | 5 Transfers |
Save $45 if you travel with Amtrak!
Bus from San Jose to Chicago
The bus trip from San Jose to Chicago takes approximately 53h 25m duration and covers a distance of about 1836mi. There are usually 10 buses traveling daily to Chicago and you can find the cheapest tickets from $277.36 if you buy in advance on the internet.
Train from San Jose to Chicago
It takes an average of 53h 49m to travel from San Jose to Chicago by train, covering a distance of about 1836mi. There are usually 3 trains traveling daily from San Jose to Chicago and tickets for this journey start from $241.69 when you book in advance.
| Distance | 1836mi |
|---|---|
| Price | $242 |
| Frequency | 3 |
| Fastest | 53h 49m |
| Companies |
San Jose, CA
Getting around San Jose
Get the most efficient and affordable ways to travel by bus and train in San Jose. Find route maps, fares, and travel times to make the most of your visit to the city.
Explore San Jose with ease: discover the main bus and train stations
Diridon Station
San Jose Diridon Station
Chicago, IL
Getting around Chicago
Get the most efficient and affordable ways to travel by bus and train in Chicago. Find route maps, fares, and travel times to make the most of your visit to the city.
Explore Chicago with ease: discover the main bus and train stations
Chicago 95 Th Dan Ryan
Chicago Bus Station
Chicago Train Station
Chicago Union Station IL
Downtown Greyhound Station
Guide: Bus Onboard Services
Companies Onboard Amenities
Most major bus companies in North America offer a range of basic amenities aimed at making the trip more comfortable. Here’s a list of common services you’re likely to find regardless of which company you choose:
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available on most long-distance routes, but speeds may vary, and data may be limited.
- Power Outlets: Charging ports or USB outlets are available to keep your devices powered during the journey.
- Restrooms: Onboard restrooms are a standard feature on intercity buses.
- Air Conditioning/Heating: Climate control is standard, with air conditioning or heating.
- Reclining Seats: Most buses have reclining seats with extra legroom.
Featured Amenities by Company
While the basics are similar across companies, each operator has some unique offerings.
Greyhound & Flixbus 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇲🇽
- Wi-Fi and Power: Free Wi-Fi is available, but connection speeds can be slow depending on your location. Power outlets are available at each seat.
- Seating Comfort: Seats are equipped with extra legroom and the ability to recline for added comfort on long trips.
- Entertainment: Greyhound offers onboard entertainment via streaming services, allowing you to watch movies or shows on your personal device.
View All Services: Greyhound - Flixbus
Megabus & Coach USA 🇺🇸🇨🇦
- Free Wi-Fi and Outlets: Megabus provides free Wi-Fi, but with limited data and slower speeds. Outlets are available to charge electronics.
- Panoramic Windows: Megabus double-decker buses have panoramic windows for a great view, especially if you sit on the upper deck.
- Entertainment: There’s no specific entertainment system, but passengers are encouraged to use their own devices for entertainment.
View All Services: Megabus - Coach USA
OurBus 🇺🇸
- Wi-Fi: Free, but subject to availability and slower speeds in rural areas.
- Snacks and Beverages: Unlike many other operators, OurBus offers complimentary snacks and bottled water.
- Comfortable Seating: Their buses are fitted with comfortable, reclining seats with sufficient legroom.
View All Services: Ourbus
ADO 🇲🇽🇺🇸
- Wi-Fi and Entertainment: Buses come equipped with free Wi-Fi and an onboard entertainment system offering movies and music.
- Premium Seating Options: Premium seating experience, with extra-wide seats that recline significantly. Leg supports for maximum comfort.
- Refreshments: On some routes, passengers are offered complimentary beverages and snacks during the journey.
View All Services: ADO
Travel Tips
The best tips from our team for your next trip
10 Tips for Reducing Your Environmental Impact When Traveling by Bus or Train
10 Tips for Etiquette and Manners When Traveling by Bus or Train
10 Tips to Save Money on Your Journey
10 Tips for Health and Wellness When Traveling by Bus or Train
10 Tips for Cultural Awareness When Traveling by Bus or Train
10 Tips for Digital Nomadism When Traveling by Bus or Train
10 Tips for Safety and Security When Traveling by Bus or Train
10 Tips for Dealing with Language Barriers When Traveling by Bus or Train
10 Tips for Traveling with Pets by Bus or Train
10 Tips to maximize comfort on your journey
10 Tips for Making the Most of Sightseeing Opportunities When Traveling by Bus or Train
Saving Money
Cheapest Bus
The cheapest bus ticket from San Jose to Chicago is a regular seat, one-way trip, when booked in advance. Buying on the day of travel is usually more expensive and may include additional costs that can vary depending on the time of day and bus class.
- Book in advance.
- Most companies sell bus tickets about three to six months in advance. If you already have your travel date set, search as early as possible to save money.
- Be flexible with your travel times.
- Many companies increase ticket prices during "peak hours" (usually between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays). If possible, choose to travel outside of these hours to find cheaper tickets and save money.
- Check connections.
- On some of the busiest routes, you may also have the option of taking a slower or connecting transportation. It may take a little longer, but if you have a bit more time available, you may find a cheaper ticket.