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Cheap bus tickets from Chicago to Tucson

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Chicago to Tucson Bus Schedule

Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Tucson?

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Tucson.

Bus
Train
Avg. Price
Avg. Price
$172.13
Avg. Price
$436.35
Daily Trips
Daily Trips
9
Daily Trips
2
Duration
Duration
2d 5h 44m
Duration
2d 9h 48m

Bus from Chicago to Tucson: Journey Information

There are 14 intercity buses per day from Chicago to Tucson. Traveling by bus from Chicago to Tucson usually takes around 55 hours and 45 minutes, but the fastest FlixBus US bus can make the trip in 39 hours and 50 minutes.

Distance1441 mi (2319 km)
Shortest duration39h 50m
Cheapest price$109.95
Trips per day1
Most frequent serviceFlixBus US
Bus lines2

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What bus companies travel from Chicago to Tucson?

There are two bus lines that have daily service from Chicago to Tucson that you can compare and book on Wanderu. Of these two carriers, FlixBus US usually offers more choice, with 14 scheduled trips per day.

BusDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
FlixBus US142d 7h 44m$283.93
Tornado Bus12d 9h 30m$323.41
  • FlixBus US is the American branch of German bus company FlixBus, known for providing sustainable, affordable, and modern bus travel. The company offers cheap bus tickets to popular urban destinations throughout the United States. FlixBus US buses include many amenities, including comfortable seats, free WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and an online portal for free entertainment. On average, FlixBus US operates 14 trips per day from Chicago to Tucson, and the average ticket for this route costs only .

  • Tornado Bus is a Texan bus company operating in Texas and Mexico. Their bus service connects cities such as Houston, McAllen, San Antonio, and the international border at El Paso. Their buses offer onboard WiFi, plenty of leg room, air conditioning, restrooms, and power outlets.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Chicago to Tucson

The bus takes an average of 55 hours and 45 minutes to cover the 1441 miles from Chicago to Tucson. However, the fastest bus only takes 39 hours and 50 minutes. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.

Saturday is usually the day when buses are busiest, as many travelers take the bus to enjoy the weekend in Tucson. If you are planning to travel on a Saturday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.

On the other hand, Thursday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Thursday ticket is the way to go.

The first bus leaves at 12:00am and the last bus leaves at 11:00pm. To see the times for all buses from Chicago to Tucson, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.

There are 14 scheduled buses that travel from Chicago to Tucson every day, so you have a decent number of options to choose from. However, only one of these is a direct bus. With direct service, you do not have to transfer onto a different bus at any point during your trip. Direct buses also tend to be significantly faster, which is worth bearing in mind as you compare the available options.

Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Chicago to Tucson; ticket prices start at $144.00.

City Information

Chicago

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Tucson

A bright and sunny city with more than 350 days of sunshine and temperatures that rarely dip below 60, Tucson is undoubtedly one of Arizona's best vacation destinations. Those who don’t shy away from some outdoor activities should go on a hiking trip in the Saguaro National Park, where visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of southwestern landscapes. Of the park's two areas, the Tucson Mountain District is the more popular one, owing to its amazing sunset views. Architecture fans could also consider visiting Mission San Xavier del Bac, a perfect example of 18th-century architecture. If you wish to learn more about the region and its unique flora and fauna, head over to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which features 230 animal species and 1,200 local plant species.

It should come as no surprise that the most famous dishes in Tucson are Mexican foods, which boast spicy, sweet and smoky flavors. One of the best spots to enjoy these delicacies is at El Charro Café, which has been around since 1922. For a more eclectic menu, Feast is a good option.

The principal Amtrak train station in Tucson is on Toole Ave. The city is served by Amtrak’s Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited lines. The main bus station is the bus terminal located at 801 E 12th St, not too far from the train station. The city’s commercial air services are fulfilled by Tucson International Airport, which is 6 miles south of the city’s center.

Station Information

Where does the bus leave from in Chicago?

Main departure station: Dan Ryan Bus Station

Buses to Tucson leave from 3 stations in Chicago.

All bus stations in Chicago:

  • Dan Ryan Bus Station

  • Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St

  • 3501 S California Ave

Where does the bus arrive in Tucson?

Main arrival station: Bus Terminal - 801 E 12th St

The Bus Terminal at 801 E 12th St is one of Tucson’s central transportation hubs. This modern station’s lighted sign announces its Greyhound service, and intercity bus routes from Jefferson Lines also serve this station. Possible destinations from Tucson’s bus terminal include Phoenix, El Paso, San Diego, and the city of sin itself, Las Vegas. This station is close to Iron Horse Park and only a mile away from the Amtrak station for passengers to continue their travels via train.

All bus stations in Tucson:

  • Bus Terminal - 801 E 12th St

  • Downtown - 126 N 6th Ave

  • 5621 E Broadway Blvd

  • 1119 E 6th St - 6th St Garage @ University of Arizona

  • 5550 S 12th Ave

Get around town with Moovit

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Need a return trip from Tucson to Chicago?

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