Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL bus with Greyhound

Sun, Sep 20
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Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
FlixBus
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2,000+ travel companies
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Alsa
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$186

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$187

Fastest journey on Sep 20

17 h 23 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

17 h 58 m

Buses on Sep 20

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.

  • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
    1:01 AM19h04
    Bethesda, MD
    8:05 PMChicago, IL
    $1861One-way
    1 transfer
  • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
    4:32 PM17h28
    Bethesda, MD
    10:00 AMChicago, IL
    $1861One-way
    1 transfer
  • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
    4:37 PM17h23
    Bethesda, MD
    10:00 AMChicago, IL
    $1881One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus 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 an average ticket price of $238 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 21h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $238, while a bus costs an average of $238.

Distance: 589 miles (948 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Driving

$238

Average price

Cheapest

$140

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

21h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

20h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 5m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $238.

This is compared to other travel options from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL:

A bus is $229 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL costing on average $468.

A bus is $401 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL costing on average $639.

The fastest way to travel from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 35m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 20h 24m.

Bus takes on average 20h 38m.

Yes, you can take a bus between Bethesda, MD and Chicago, IL.
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 $238 compared to roughly $140 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-98.82. The journey takes 20h 38m 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.

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

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Departure Time
12:06AM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
19h59
Departure days
Wed, Thu, 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, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$186
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:05PM
Arrival Time
10:00AM
Duration
22h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$95
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:10PM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
23h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$102
Operator
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Departure Time
04:27PM
Arrival Time
10:00AM
Duration
17h33
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu
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
06:30PM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
38h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$100
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:30PM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
36h40
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$100
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 tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority1:01 AM Bethesda, MD
19h04
8:05 PM Chicago, IL1 transfer
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority4:32 PM Bethesda, MD
17h28
10:00 AM Chicago, IL1 transfer
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority4:37 PM Bethesda, MD
17h23
10:00 AM Chicago, IL2 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

Compare bus 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

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.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 20h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $229 but you can travel from only $160 by train.

The earliest bus runs at 09:55, the last at 21:30. The fastest bus covers the 589 miles (948 km) distance in 17h 55m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $160
Distance
589 miles (948 km)
Average bus duration
20h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$229
Buses per day
3
Fastest bus
17h 55m
First bus
9:55 AM
Last bus
9:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jan - Mar
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $160

Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $229. 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
17h 55m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$244
FlixBus frequency
1 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
18h 30m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$229
Greyhound frequency
2 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 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $229 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is $238 ; 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 55m 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.
There are 3 buses a day from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer 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.
When departing from Bethesda, MD , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave, MD . 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 Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) 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 Bethesda, MD is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 17h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL is March.
Yes, you can take a bus between Bethesda, MD and Chicago, IL.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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

Most Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL buses use the Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Bethesda, MD 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 Bethesda
Arrival bus stations in Chicago

Which Bethesda, MD station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?

Buses from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL leave from Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bethesda, MD city centre at Bethesda Waverly Street, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery AveBethesda Waverly Street, Bethesda, MD 20814, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave from Bethesda city centre

TRUE

Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave bus station facilities and services

Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave 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 Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave. ATMs are available at Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave: Basic accessibility features available.

More options for your journey from Bethesda, MD to Chicago, IL

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