- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$186
Average price
$187
Fastest journey
17 h 33 m
Average duration
18 h 39 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
948 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bethesda, MD 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 Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL will cost around $187 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $186.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
12:46 AM19h19Bethesda, MD8:05 PMChicago, IL$1861One-way1 transfer- 4:27 PM17h33Bethesda, MD10:00 AMChicago, IL$1861One-way1 transfer
- 1:01 AM19h04Bethesda, MD8:05 PMChicago, IL$1881One-way2 transfers
- 4:27 PM17h33Bethesda, MD10:00 AMChicago, IL$1861One-way1 transfer
- 1:01 AM19h04Bethesda, MD8:05 PMChicago, IL$1881One-way2 transfers
- 12:46 AM19h19Bethesda, MD8:05 PMChicago, IL$1861One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $104. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 31m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $104, and a flight costs an average of $395.
Distance: 589 miles (948 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$107 Average price Cheapest | $193 Average price | $407 Average price | $137 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
25h 0m Average total duration 24h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 54m Average total duration 17h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 31m Average total duration Fastest 2h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $107 (€87).
This is compared to other travel options from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $86 (€71) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL costing on average $193 (€158).
A bus is $300 (€246) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL costing on average $407 (€333).
The fastest way to travel from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 31m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 17h 24m.
Bus takes on average 24h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bethesda, MD and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bethesda, MD 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 $107 (€87) compared to roughly $137 (€112) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $30 (€25). The journey takes 24h 30m versus 10h 5m 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.
Direct services are operated by Greyhound.
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.
Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority | Departure Time 12:06AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 19h59 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $186 |
Operator Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority | Departure Time 12:46AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 19h19 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $186 |
Operator Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority | Departure Time 01:01AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 19h04 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $186 |
Operator Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority | Departure Time 04:27PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 17h33 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $186 |
Operator Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority | Departure Time 04:32PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 17h28 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $186 |
Operator Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority | Departure Time 04:37PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 17h23 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $188 |
Operator Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority | Departure Time 04:42PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 17h18 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $186 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 17h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $104 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 17h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $110 |
Live departures
Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL buses for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:32 PM Bethesda, MD | 17h28 | 10:00 AM Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 4:37 PM Bethesda, MD | 17h23 | 10:00 AM Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
| Monday, June 22 | |||||
| 12:46 AM Bethesda, MD | 19h19 | 8:05 PM Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| 1:01 AM Bethesda, MD | 19h04 | 8:05 PM Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Why should you book Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority offer buses services from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to find the best option for your trip from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 24h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $104 (€85) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 09:55, the last at 21:30. The fastest bus covers the 589 miles (948 km) distance in 17h 25m.
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 589 miles (948 km) |
Average bus duration 24h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $104 (€85) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 17h 25m |
First bus 9:55 AM |
Last bus 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority for as low as $104 (€85). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 Duration
17h 25m
Cheapest Price
$104 (€85)
Greyhound frequency
3 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.
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17h 18m
Cheapest Price
$186 (€152)
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum famous for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and extensive science collections that appeal to both adults and children.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park featuring a submarine, space exhibits, engineering displays, and immersive family-friendly experiences.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
The city’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, events, and major skyline views that define modern Chicago.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, hotels, and frequent first-time visitor photo stops.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Highly popular waterfront promenade with architecture views, bridges, and one of the best urban walks in the city.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
Gene & Georgetti
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is manageable, but hotels, attractions, and downtown dining can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
FAQs: Bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bethesda, MD 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $104 (€85) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is $107 (€87) ; 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 Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is 17h 25m to travel the 589 miles (948 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 Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:30 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bethesda, MD and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Bethesda, MD is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 17h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bethesda, MD and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bethesda, MD 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 Bethesda, MD 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 Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bethesda, MD 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 Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Bethesda, MD 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bethesda, MD 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 Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL
Bethesda
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Bethesda is Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave for your trip from Bethesda to Chicago.
Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip to Chicago from Bethesda.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Most popular bus connections from Bethesda, MD
More options for your journey from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Bethesda, MD
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
