Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL bus with FlixBus

Wed, Sep 02
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 02

Cheapest price on Sep 02

$42

Average ticket price on Sep 02

$45

Fastest journey on Sep 02

5 h 35 m

Average journey duration on Sep 02

5 h 50 m

Buses on Sep 02

2

Distance

189 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bloomington, IL 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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.

Fast buses

On Wed, Sep 02, we found 2 buses from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL, including 1 direct services.

On Wed, Sep 02 the direct buses cover the 189 km distance in an average of 5 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 35 m .

On Wed, Sep 02 the slowest buses will take 6 h 5 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Greyhound
    1:10 PM5h35
    Bloomington, Normal Railway Station
    6:45 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $421One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    2:30 PM6h05
    Bloomington, Normal Railway Station
    8:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $491One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $54 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 55m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $54, while a train costs an average of $60.

Distance: 117 miles (189 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$54

Average price

Cheapest

$60

Average price

$28

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 54m

Average total duration

4h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 55m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 7m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $54.

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

A bus is $6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average $60.

The fastest way to travel from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is by train with an average journey time of 2h 25m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 24m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bloomington, IL 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 Bloomington, IL 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 $54 compared to roughly $28 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-25.68. The journey takes 4h 24m versus 2h 7m 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.

Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
06:45PM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$46

Live departures

Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL bus times

The table below shows live departures for Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL buses for today, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound1:10 PM Bloomington, Normal Railway Station
5h35
6:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station0 transfersDirect
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus2:30 PM Bloomington, Normal Railway Station
6h05
8:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bloomington, IL 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.

Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08

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

Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bloomington, IL 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Bloomington, IL 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 24m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 but you can travel from only $15 by train.

There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:25, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 117 miles (189 km) distance in 3h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $15
Distance
117 miles (189 km)
Average bus duration
4h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$29
Buses per day
2
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
3h 25m
First bus
5:25 AM
Last bus
11:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $15

Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus for as low as $15. 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
3h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$29
FlixBus frequency
2 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.

Infobus

About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Infobus Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$139
Infobus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.

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
5h 35m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$29
Greyhound frequency
1 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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bloomington, IL 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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $29 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is $54 ; 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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is 3h 25m to travel the 117 miles (189 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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 5:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:10 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bloomington, IL and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Bloomington, IL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Bloomington, Normal Railway Station . When arriving in Chicago, IL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, 95th Red Line Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Bloomington, Normal Railway Station, 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 Bloomington, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bloomington, IL and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Bloomington, IL 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.
  • FlixBus
    • 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Bloomington, IL 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 Bloomington, IL 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 Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL

Most Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL buses use the Bloomington, Normal Railway Station to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. Use this guide to compare Bloomington, IL 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 Bloomington
Arrival bus stations in Chicago

Which Chicago, IL station do buses from Bloomington, IL arrive at?

Buses from Bloomington, IL to Chicago, IL most often arrive at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Some services arrive at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chicago, IL arrival station.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre

Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min

Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services

Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.

Chicago, 95th Red Line Station95th Red Line Station, Chicago, IL 60620, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre

Chicago, 95th Red Line Station is 14 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

BusGreyhound US0100 · 20m · $2
29 · 47m · $4 · every ~11 min
29 · 48m · $4 · every ~11 min
SubwayRed Line · 24m · $6 · every ~23 min
Red Line · 25m · $6 · every ~23 min

Chicago, 95th Red Line Station bus station facilities and services

Chicago, 95th Red Line 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 Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances available.

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to Chicago, ILBloomington, IL to Chicago, IL bus

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