- Must visit
Columbia Museum Of Art
The city’s leading art museum, known for European, American, Asian, and contemporary works, plus rotating exhibitions and public programs in the downtown arts district.
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 Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$109
Average price
$129
Fastest journey
9 h 55 m
Average duration
12 h 19 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
511 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO 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 Columbia, MO will cost around $129 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $109.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
12:15 AM10h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:40 AMColumbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO$1091One-way1 transfer- FlixBus+12:15 AM10h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:05 AMColumbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO$1101One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+9:45 AM9h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station7:40 PMColumbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO$1111One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+ · 5:15 PM15h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:45 AMColumbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO$1141One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+ · 5:15 PM15h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:20 AMColumbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO$1151One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+9:45 AM9h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station7:40 PMColumbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO$1111One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+12:15 AM10h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:40 AMColumbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO$1091One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+12:15 AM10h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:05 AMColumbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO$1101One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+ · 5:15 PM15h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:20 AMColumbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO$1151One-way2 transfers
- · · 11:10 PM15h20Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL2:30 PMColumbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO$1511One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $51, and a flight costs an average of $143.
Distance: 317 miles (511 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$111 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $275 Average price | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 18m Average total duration 9h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 20m Average total duration 7h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 1h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO is a train with an average price of $56 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO:
A train is $55 (€45) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO costing on average $111 (€91).
A train is $219 (€179) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO costing on average $275 (€225).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 34m.
Other travel options to Columbia, MO take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 50m.
Bus takes on average 9h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Columbia, MO including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 15h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 15h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $80 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+ | 9:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 9h55 | 7:40 PM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ · | 5:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 15h30 | 8:45 AM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · | 5:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 15h05 | 8:20 AM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 15h40 | 2:30 PM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 16h10 | 3:00 PM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 15h20 | 2:30 PM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 15h50 | 3:00 PM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| FlixBus+ | 12:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 10h25 | 10:40 AM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 12:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 10h50 | 11:05 AM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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
Jun 21
Jun 21
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
Why should you book Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO.
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 Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO.
- 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, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO.
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 Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO run on average 7 times per day, taking around 9h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $65 (€53) but you can travel from only $51 (€42) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 317 miles (511 km) distance in 9h 10m.
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 $51 (€42)
Distance 317 miles (511 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $65 (€53) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 9h 10m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 $51 (€42)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MOYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $51 (€42). 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 Duration
9h 10m
Cheapest Price
$69 (€57)
FlixBus frequency
3 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 Duration
13h 25m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
Greyhound frequency
4 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 Columbia
Things to do in Columbia
Discover the best of Columbia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbia trip today.
- Must visit
South Carolina State Museum
South Carolina’s largest museum, covering art, history, natural history, science, and technology in a large converted mill on the Congaree riverfront.
- Recommended
McKissick Museum
A university museum focusing on Southern culture, folk traditions, and regional history through compact but thoughtful exhibitions on the University of South Carolina campus.
- Must visit
Main Street District
Columbia’s most active downtown corridor, lined with shops, public art, event spaces, and restored buildings. A top area for walking and urban atmosphere.
- Must visit
Riverfront Park
A scenic riverside park with paved walking paths, canal views, industrial heritage features, and some of the city’s most photogenic outdoor scenery.
- Must visit
University Of South Carolina Horseshoe
The historic heart of the university campus, featuring mature trees, brick paths, and some of Columbia’s most graceful academic architecture.
- Gluten-free
South Carolina Barbecue
Slow-smoked pork, often chopped or pulled, traditionally served with the state’s distinctive mustard-based barbecue sauce known as Carolina Gold.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp And Grits
A Lowcountry classic of sautéed shrimp served over creamy grits, reflecting coastal South Carolina cooking and regional seafood traditions.
- Gluten-free
Chicken Bog
A traditional South Carolina one-pot dish of rice, chicken, sausage, and spices, especially associated with central and coastal parts of the state.
Halls Chophouse Columbia
An upscale steakhouse popular for prime steaks, seafood, and Southern hospitality in an elegant dining room.
Motor Supply Company Bistro
A long-running downtown restaurant known for seasonal New American cuisine, polished service, and a lively but refined atmosphere.
Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe
An established neighborhood restaurant serving creative Southern fare with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Costs are moderate by U.S. standards. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and upscale dining vary by area and season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants before tax. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15% or round up. Hotel housekeeping: USD 2-5 per night. No tip needed for fast food.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO 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 Columbia, MO, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO can start from as little as $65 (€53) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO is $111 (€91) ; 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 Columbia, MO is 9h 10m to travel the 317 miles (511 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 Columbia, MO leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Columbia, MO. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Columbia, MO and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Columbia, MO from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Columbia, MO including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO 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 Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO:
- 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 Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Columbia, MO 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 Columbia, MO 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 Columbia, MO, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in busy areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share services and fake ticket sellers near popular events. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation options helps ensure 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 Columbia, MO
Most Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) station pair, with some services arriving at Columbia, Wabash Bus Station. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Columbia, MO 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 Columbia
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza)
City-centre transport
Getting to Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) from Columbia city centre
TrainMissouri River Runner, Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 4h 1m · $225
BusGreyhound US0175s · 2h 45m · $24
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Columbia, MO
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Columbia, MO and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Columbia, MO
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.
