Albany, NY to Chicago, IL bus with Greyhound

Wed, Sep 09
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 09

Cheapest price on Sep 09

$104

Average ticket price on Sep 09

$122

Fastest journey on Sep 09

18 h 55 m

Average journey duration on Sep 09

1 d 2 h 1 m

Buses on Sep 09

5

Distance

1146 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL will cost around $122 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $104.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    2:10 PM24h15
    Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY
    1:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $1041One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound ·
    4:20 AM26h50
    Albany, Bus Terminal
    6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $1181One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    7:20 AM31h25
    Albany, Bus Terminal
    1:45 PMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    $1201One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound · ·
    4:20 AM28h40
    Albany, Bus Terminal
    8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    $1321One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greyhound ·
    4:05 PM18h55
    Albany, Bus Terminal
    10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $1341One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Albany, NY to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $162 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 33m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.3 - 1.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $162, while a flight costs an average of $640.

Distance: 712 miles (1146 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$162

Average price

Cheapest

$356

Average price

$640

Average price

$254

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

24h 6m

Average total duration

23h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

16h 33m

Average total duration

16h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 33m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

12h 13m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

1.1 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

0.3 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.4 - 6.9kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $162.

This is compared to other travel options from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL:

A bus is $194 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL costing on average $356.

A bus is $478 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL costing on average $640.

The fastest way to travel from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 33m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 16h 3m.

Bus takes on average 23h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Albany, NY and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

Tickets start at around $162 compared to roughly $254 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $91. The journey takes 23h 36m versus 12h 13m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.

Albany, NY to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
26h50
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$100
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
28h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$100
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
01:45PM
Duration
31h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$103
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:10PM
Arrival Time
06:55PM
Duration
29h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$99
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:05PM
Arrival Time
10:00AM
Duration
18h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$95
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
36h10
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$121
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:30PM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
35h40
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$121
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:55PM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
25h10
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$89
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
08:10PM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
24h55
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$89
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
36h00
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$107
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
34h10
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$105
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:15PM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
35h45
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$108
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:15PM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
33h55
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$105

Live departures

Albany, NY to Chicago, IL bus times

The table below shows live departures for Albany, NY to Chicago, IL buses for today, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · · · 7:20 AM Albany, Bus Terminal
31h25
1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL3 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus2:10 PM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY
29h45
6:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
Greyhound · 4:05 PM Albany, Bus Terminal
18h55
10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus+Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus7:00 PM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY
36h10
6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station3 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus+Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus7:30 PM Albany, Bus Terminal
35h40
6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station3 transfers
Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus4:20 AM Albany, Bus Terminal
26h50
6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2 transfers
Greyhound · · 4:20 AM Albany, Bus Terminal
28h40
8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Albany, NY to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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.

Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Albany, NY to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?

Greyhound operates all buses services from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL run on average 9 times per day, taking around 23h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $87 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 04:20, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 712 miles (1146 km) distance in 17h 40m.

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
Distance
712 miles (1146 km)
Average bus duration
23h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$87
Buses per day
9
Fastest bus
17h 40m
First bus
4:20 AM
Last bus
11:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
35 days
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

Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Albany, NY to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Albany, NY to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $87. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
20h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$87
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

Greyhound

About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Duration
17h 40m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$88
Greyhound frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.

Complete guide to Chicago, IL

Things to do in Chicago, IL

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

  • Must visit

Art Institute of Chicago

World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science and Industry

Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.

FAQs: Bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $87 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Albany, NY to Chicago, IL is $162 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL is 17h 40m to travel the 712 miles (1146 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Albany, NY and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Albany, NY , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Albany, Bus Terminal, Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY . When arriving in Chicago, IL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Albany, Bus Terminal, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Albany, NY is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 17h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Albany, NY and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
  • Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
  • Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
  • Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
  • Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
  • Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
  • Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
  • Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
  • Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
  • Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
  • Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL depends on the bus companies:
  • Greyhound
    • You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Albany, NY nor Chicago, IL 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL

Most Albany, NY to Chicago, IL buses use the Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Albany, NY and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Albany
Arrival bus stations in Chicago

Which Albany, NY station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?

Buses from Albany, NY to Chicago, IL leave from Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Albany, NY city centre at 38 Hamilton St, Albany, NY 12207, USA.
Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station)38 Hamilton St, Albany, NY 12207, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station) from Albany city centre

Bus1, 13, 18, 182, 214, 233, 737, 807, 808, 905, 910 · 7m · $2 · every ~36 min

Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station) bus station facilities and services

Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station). ATMs are available at Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station): Wheelchair accessible entry.

Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles)SUNY Collins Circle, Albany, NY 12206, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles) from Albany city centre

Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles) is 6 km from Albany city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus12 · 17m · $2 · every ~6 min
Nyc · 21m · $12
12 · 22m · $2 · every ~6 min
Adt A134, Adt A518, Adt A264, Adt A290u, Adt A288, Adt A532, 136, 106, Adt A418h, 298 · 24m · $1

Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles) bus station facilities and services

Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles). ATMs are available at Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles): No specific accessibility features provided.

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