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Columbus, OH, USA to Bloomington, IN, USA from $40: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Columbus, United States of America
to
Bloomington, United States of America

How to Get from Columbus to Bloomington: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$40 - OtherBest price
364 kmDistance
3h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Columbus to Bloomington with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$24-103
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  53m
Estimated price
$40-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 364 km
Duration: 3h 53m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$28-104
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
7h  33m
Estimated price
$58-350

Traveling From Columbus to Bloomington

The journey from Columbus to Bloomington offers a dynamic shift from the vibrant city life of Columbus to the charming, laid-back atmosphere of Bloomington.

Best Neighborhoods in Bloomington

Bloomington features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Bloomington
• Vibrant arts scene with theaters and galleries.
• Rich selection of dining and shopping options.
Elm Heights
• Beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets.
• Close proximity to Indiana University campus.
Bryan Park
• Expansive park space with walking trails and lakes.
• Family-friendly environment with community events.

Best Times To Visit Bloomington's Attractions

Planning your visits wisely can enhance your experience in Bloomington.

Indiana University
Visit in early morning or late afternoon for a quieter campus experience.
Bloomington Community Farmers' Market
Saturdays during spring and summer for a bustling, lively atmosphere.
Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center
Weekdays offer a peaceful visit, away from weekend crowds.

Bloomington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bloomington experiences a humid continental climate, featuring warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for visits. Be mindful of seasonal changes, as they can significantly influence your outdoor activities and overall travel enjoyment.

Dining in Bloomington: A Culinary Treasure

For a taste of Bloomington, try the locally-sourced mushroom risotto at Farm Bloomington, where the farm-to-table concept brings fresh, vibrant flavors that stand apart from Columbus's fast-casual scene. The rustic atmosphere and commitment to using seasonal ingredients create a distinctive dining experience that celebrates the rich agricultural bounty of the area.

Columbus - Bloomington operators

Explore transport companies operating between Columbus and Bloomington, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Columbus to Indianapolis

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$24-103

Bus from Indianapolis to Bloomington

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$31-40
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
baronsbus.com

Bus from Columbus, OH to Dayton Trotwood, OH

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$31-40
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Dayton Trotwood Bus Station to Indianapolis Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$32-33
Contact phone
+1 800-544-2383
Website
hoosierride.com

Bus from Indianapolis, IN to Bloomington, IN

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
800-589-6004
Website
goexpresstravel.com

Other from Indianapolis Airport to Home2 Suites

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$34-35
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Columbus Airport to Indianapolis Airport

Average Duration
4h 1m
Estimated price
$241-242
Website
aa.com

Plane from Columbus Airport to Indianapolis Airport

Average Duration
4h 11m
Estimated price
$245-246
Website
united.com

Plane from Columbus Airport to Indianapolis Airport

Average Duration
4h 51m
Estimated price
$245-246
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Columbus Airport to Indianapolis Airport

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$247-248

Columbus to Bloomington: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Columbus and Bloomington offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Columbus to Bloomington, covering 226 miles of beautiful Midwestern landscapes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of budget-friendly transportation options, with car travel costs ranging from $40 to $60 for the journey. 🌳 Arrive in Bloomington after approximately 3 hours and 53 minutes of driving, ready to explore the charming city and its vibrant university town atmosphere.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚄 Embark on an exciting train journey from Columbus to Bloomington. This scenic route covers a distance of 228 miles and includes 2 transfers along the way. 🌟 With a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 22 minutes, this train trip presents a fantastic opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes between Columbus and Bloomington.
🛫 Flying from Columbus to Bloomington involves taking a flight with a stopover at Indianapolis Airport. The quickest available option typically takes around 3 hours and 28 minutes in total.
Departure Point
Columbus Airport
Arrival Point
Indianapolis Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 28m and has one stopover
🚌 If you're traveling from Columbus to Bloomington by bus, be prepared for a journey of approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes with transfers in Indianapolis. 🎫 The prices for this bus route can vary from $24 to $103, offering options for different budgets. 🌟 Depending on the specific route you choose, the travel time can range from 6 to 8.5 hours, with various transfers along the way.
Departure Point
Columbus station
Arrival Point
Bloomington station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Columbus to Bloomington.

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The distance between Columbus and Bloomington is approximately 197 miles. The road distance is slightly longer, at 226 miles. If you choose to fly and then take a shuttle, the typical travel time is around 6 hours and 42 minutes. However, if you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 3 hours and 53 minutes to reach Columbus from Bloomington by car. Taking a bus is another option, which typically takes around 5 hours and 45 minutes to travel between the two cities.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Columbus to Bloomington is by driving. It takes approximately 3 hours and 53 minutes to cover the distance of 197 miles by car. The cost of fuel and tolls would range between $40 to $60 for a round trip. Taking a flight and then a shuttle would be faster, but it is not the most cost-effective option.
The prices for traveling from Columbus to Bloomington by bus can range from $24 to $103. The exact cost will depend on factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and any discounts or promotions that may be available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and websites to compare prices and find the best deals for your specific travel dates and preferences.
To travel from Columbus to Bloomington without using public transportation, the most convenient option would be to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 226 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 53 minutes by car. The cost of driving from Columbus to Bloomington can vary between $40 to $60, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Columbus to Bloomington without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes and the cost is between $23 and $110. There are several bus companies that offer this route, providing a convenient and affordable transportation option for travelers.
Yes, there is a way to travel directly from Columbus to Bloomington. Although there is no direct bus route, you can take a bus from Columbus to Indianapolis and then transfer to another bus to reach Bloomington. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA.
The flight time between Columbus and Bloomington varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes with one stopover. However, since there is no direct flight from Columbus Airport to Indianapolis Airport, travelers would need to book a connecting flight. The cost of the flight also varies depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, but it typically ranges from $200 to $500.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Bloomington. With 86+ hotels available, visitors have a variety of choices to fit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $45, making it possible to find affordable accommodations. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are several options to choose from.

Trips from Columbus