Champaign Charter Bus & Minibus Rental Prices: How Much Does a Champaign Bus Rental Cost?

The cost of renting a charter bus in Champaign depends on several factors, including the type of bus, the length of your trip, and the time of year. Here are some average rates to give you an idea of what to expect:

• 56-Passenger Coach Bus – $197 – $519 per hour · $1,600 – $3,800 per day · $5.00 – $8.00 per mile
• 25-Passenger Minibus – $165 – $428 per hour · $1,300 – $3,200 per day · $4.00 – $7.00 per mile
• 20-Passenger Minibus – $157 – $414 per hour · $1,300 – $3,100 per day · $4.00 – $7.00 per mile
• 18-Passenger Minibus – $145 – $404 per hour · $1,300 – $3,000 per day · $4.00 – $7.00 per mile

These are just estimates—your actual price may be higher or lower depending on your specific needs. For example, a round-trip charter from Champaign to Chicago’s United Center for a Bulls game will cost more than a local shuttle between campus and downtown bars on Green Street. The best way to get an accurate quote is to contact us with your trip details.

When it comes to determining the cost of your bus rental, there are several important factors that come into play. First and foremost, the type and size of vehicle you choose will have a significant impact on the price. Full-size charter buses (like 56-passenger models) are generally more expensive than smaller minibuses (like 18-, 20-, or 25-passenger options) due to their larger capacity and additional amenities. If you require specialty features such as WiFi, power outlets, onboard restrooms, or ADA accessibility, this can also affect your quote.

The duration and distance of your trip are other key considerations. Local trips within Champaign-Urbana—such as shuttling guests between wedding venues like Pear Tree Estate and hotels near Market Place Shopping Center—may be billed hourly, while longer journeys to destinations like Starved Rock State Park, Springfield, or even Chicago’s Navy Pier are typically charged by the day or mile. The farther and longer you travel, the higher the overall cost.

Seasonality plays a role too. Peak demand periods—such as University of Illinois football season at Memorial Stadium, graduation weekends, or major festivals like Ebertfest—can drive up prices due to increased bookings across the region. Booking well in advance can help secure better rates during these busy times.

Additional expenses to consider include tolls on I-57/I-74, parking fees at venues like State Farm Center or Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, and driver accommodations for overnight trips. For example, if your group is heading to Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the Indy 500, you’ll need to budget for hotel rooms and meals for the driver(s). It’s also customary to tip your driver 10-20% of the total rental cost for exceptional service.

Lastly, last-minute changes to your itinerary—such as adding extra stops at Willard Airport (CMI) or extending service hours for late-night events at Canopy Club—can result in additional charges. Providing detailed information upfront ensures you receive the most accurate and competitive quote possible.