- Must visit
New York State Museum
Major state museum covering New York's nature, history, and culture. Highlights include Adirondack, 9/11, and native history exhibits.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
$107
Average price
$120
Fastest journey
19 h 40 m
Average duration
1 d 1 h 37 m
Buses per day
8
Distance
1146 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY will cost around $120 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $107.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY without transferring at least once.
· 6:00 PM19h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:40 PMAlbany, Bus Terminal$1071One-way1 transfer- · +
FlixBus · FlixBus6:30 AM26h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:05 AMAlbany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY$1091One-way3 transfers - FlixBus · FlixBus7:00 AM29h20Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:20 PMAlbany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY$1101One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+ · 7:00 AM27h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:10 AMAlbany, Bus Terminal$1121One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+ · 7:15 PM27h15Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:30 PMAlbany, Bus Terminal$1121One-way2 transfers
- · 6:00 PM19h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:40 PMAlbany, Bus Terminal$1071One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus · FlixBus6:30 AM26h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:05 AMAlbany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY$1091One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · 7:00 AM27h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:10 AMAlbany, Bus Terminal$1121One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+ · 7:15 PM27h15Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:30 PMAlbany, Bus Terminal$1121One-way2 transfers
- · · · 10:15 AM27h25Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL2:40 PMAlbany, Bus Terminal$1121One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Albany, NY
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $91. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $91, and a flight costs an average of $227.
Distance: 712 miles (1146 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$166 Average price Cheapest | $222 Average price | $661 Average price |
23h 30m Average total duration 23h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 35m Average total duration 16h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 4m Average total duration Fastest 4h 4m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
1.1 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.4 - 6.9kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
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 Chicago, IL to Albany, NY is a bus with an average price of $166.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY:
A bus is $56 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY costing on average $222.
A bus is $495 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY costing on average $661.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 4m.
Other travel options to Albany, NY take longer:
Train takes on average 16h 5m.
Bus takes on average 23h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Albany, NY including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY among Omio's users.
Chicago, IL to Albany, NY Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 26h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $109 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 29h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $110 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 27h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 21h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 19h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 27h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 33h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $110 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Albany, NY bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Albany, NY buses for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 27h25 | 2:40 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 23h55 | 1:20 PM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ · | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 21h45 | 11:10 AM Albany, Bus Terminal | 2 transfers | |
| · | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 19h40 | 2:40 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 1 transfer | |
| · +FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 33h35 | 9:45 AM Albany, Bus Terminal | 3 transfers | |
| · +FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 33h55 | 10:05 AM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Albany, NY 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY run on average 8 times per day, taking around 23h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $91 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:35, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 712 miles (1146 km) distance in 16h 45m.
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 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 16h 45m |
First bus 3:35 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 7 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
Complete guide to Albany, NY
Things to do in Albany, NY
Discover the best of Albany, NY — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Albany, NY trip today.
- Must visit
Albany Institute of History & Art
Historic townhouse museum interpreting Albany life from the 18th century onward. Period rooms and exhibits make local history engaging.
- Recommended
University Art Museum
Contemporary art museum at the University at Albany featuring rotating exhibitions by regional and international artists in a modern setting.
- Must visit
Washington Park
Large urban park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Visitors enjoy trails, lake views, gardens, and seasonal recreation near downtown.
- Must visit
Center Square
Historic neighborhood known for ornate rowhouses and one of America's longest continuous residential streets of this style.
- Must visit
Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza
Broad ceremonial boulevard through Empire State Plaza. The reflecting pools and open vistas create one of Albany's best walking spaces.
Mini Hot Dogs With Meat Sauce
A mini hot dog topped with meat sauce, mustard, and onions. A Capital Region staple tied to local hot dog stands and late-night eating.
Pork Roll Sandwich
Thin slices of spiced bologna, often grilled or fried and served on a roll. It is a nostalgic Upstate New York lunch-counter classic.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Melba Sauce
Melba sauce, a raspberry dipping sauce for fried mozzarella or wedges, was created in Albany and remains a signature local condiment.
677 Prime
Refined New American restaurant praised for seasonal dishes, polished service, and an elegant but approachable setting in downtown Albany.
Cafe Capriccio
Long-running Italian restaurant known for mozzarella sticks with melba sauce and classic red-sauce dishes in a busy family atmosphere.
Olde English Pub and Pantry
Historic downtown tavern known for Albany comfort food, craft beer, and classic interiors. A reliable stop for local flavors and atmosphere.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. state capitals. Hotels can be lower than NYC, dining is typical for the region, and local transit is limited so visitors often use taxis or rental cars.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, about 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafes if there is table service.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY 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 Albany, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY can start from as little as $91 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Albany, NY is $166 ; 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 Chicago, IL to Albany, NY is 16h 45m 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 Chicago, IL to Albany, NY leaves at 3:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY leaves at 11:35 PM.
When departing from Chicago, IL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL . When arriving in Albany, NY , you can end your journey in bus stations like Albany, Bus Terminal, Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Albany, Bus Terminal, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Albany, NY from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 16h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Albany, NY including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY.
No, luggage for the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Albany, NY 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 Chicago, IL to Albany, NY 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 Albany, NY, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. It is advisable to use official transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid pickpocketing. Staying in well-lit and populated areas at night enhances safety.
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 Chicago, IL to Albany, NY
Most Chicago, IL to Albany, NY buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Albany, NY bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Albany
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Albany, NY leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY leave from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
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, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Which Albany, NY station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY most often arrive at Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station). Some services arrive at Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Albany, NY arrival station.
Albany, Hamilton Street (Greyhound Station)38 Hamilton St, Albany, NY 12207, USA
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, USA
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.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Albany, NY
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Albany, NY and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Albany, NY
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