- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price on Sep 17
$194
Average ticket price on Sep 17
$224
Fastest journey on Sep 17
22 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
1 d 2 h 35 m
Buses on Sep 17
8
Distance
1368 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA to Chicago, IL will cost around $224 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $194.
It's difficult to get from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
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· · · Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $174 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 38m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.4 - 1.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $174, while a train costs an average of $454.
Distance: 850 miles (1368 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$174 Average price Cheapest | $454 Average price | $415 Average price | $303 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
25h 11m Average total duration 24h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 24h 34m Average total duration 24h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 38m Average total duration Fastest 4h 38m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 14h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.4 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.1 - 8.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $241 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL costing on average $415.
A bus is $280 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL costing on average $454.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 24h 4m.
Bus takes on average 24h 41m.
Tickets start at around $174 compared to roughly $303 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $129. The journey takes 24h 41m versus 14h 45m 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 28h55 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $235 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 30h45 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $131 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 30h30 | Departure days Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $198 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 28h40 | Departure days Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $190 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 27h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $159 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 25h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $149 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 29h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $121 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 29h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $275 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 22h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $144 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 28h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 27h10 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $177 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 35h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 33h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $122 |
The table below shows live departures for Boston, MA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:30 AM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 28h40 | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 2:30 AM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 30h30 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 transfers | |
· · | 8:55 AM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 29h50 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
· | 12:30 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 22h30 | 10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 3:05 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 23h20 | 1:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
· · | 4:45 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 28h20 | 8:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:50 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 33h20 | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 9:50 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 35h10 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL run on average 7 times per day, taking around 24h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $87 but you can travel from only $53 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 01:30, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 850 miles (1368 km) distance in 21h 0m.
Distance 850 miles (1368 km) |
Average bus duration 24h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $87 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 21h 0m |
First bus 1:30 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Boston, MA 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.

Most Boston, MA to Chicago, IL buses use the Boston, Bus Terminal South Station to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Boston, MA and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Boston, Bus Terminal South Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several fast food and cafe options available.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. ATMs are aTMs located inside the terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Boston, Bus Terminal South Station.
Available at Boston, Bus Terminal South Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Boston, Bus Terminal South Station: Fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station is 14 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances available.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need