Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH bus with Greyhound

Thu, Oct 08
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08

Cheapest price on Oct 08

$54

Average ticket price on Oct 08

$66

Fastest journey on Oct 08

7 h 20 m

Average journey duration on Oct 08

8 h 21 m

Buses on Oct 08

10

Distance

444 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.

Fast buses

On Thu, Oct 08, we found 10 buses from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH, including 2 direct services.

On Thu, Oct 08 the direct buses cover the 444 km distance in an average of 8 h 21 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 20 m .

On Thu, Oct 08 the slowest buses will take 9 h 25 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    11:30 AM7h20
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    7:50 PMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound ·
    6:00 PM10h15
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:15 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
    $611One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    12:25 PM11h15
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    12:40 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
    $621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    2:45 PM9h00
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    12:45 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
    $621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    10:15 AM9h25
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    8:40 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
    $641One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH

USAUSA
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Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH run on average 9 times per day, taking around 8h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€36) if you book in advance.

There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 275 miles (444 km) distance in 7h 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
Distance
275 miles (444 km)
Average bus duration
8h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$43 (€36)
Buses per day
9
Direct buses
2
Fastest bus
7h 10m
First bus
3:50 AM
Last bus
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
35 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

Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:55AM
Arrival Time
08:40PM
Duration
9h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
12:40AM
Duration
13h40
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$86
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
08:40PM
Duration
9h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
12:40AM
Duration
11h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
12:45AM
Duration
9h00
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
10h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$61
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:15PM
Arrival Time
03:40AM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:50PM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
14h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$78
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10PM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
13h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$78

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH buses for today, Wednesday, October 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
9h00
12:45 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
10h15
5:15 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
7h25
3:40 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH0 transfersDirect
Greyhound · 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
14h05
1:55 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
13h45
1:55 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
9h45
8:40 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
9h25
8:40 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
8h35
7:50 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus11:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
7h20
7:50 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH.

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 Columbus, OH.
  • 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH.

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 Columbus, OH.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH.

Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OHYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $43 (€36). 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
7h 20m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$43 (€36)
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 Greyhound Duration
7h 10m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$43 (€36)
Greyhound frequency
7 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 Columbus, OH

Things to do in Columbus, OH

Discover the best of Columbus, OH — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbus, OH trip today.

  • Must visit

COSI

A major science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly programs that make science engaging for all ages.

  • Must visit

Columbus Museum of Art

This leading art museum offers strong American and European collections, special exhibitions, and a notable sculpture garden.

  • Recommended

Wexner Center for the Arts

Located on Ohio State's campus, this museum presents contemporary art and rotating exhibitions in an acclaimed modern building.

United States dollar ($)

Moderate for a U.S. city: hotels, dining, and transit usually cost less than New York or Chicago, but more than smaller Midwest towns.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee at cafes if service is provided.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH can start from as little as $43 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH is $74 (€62) ; 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 Columbus, OH is 7h 10m to travel the 275 miles (444 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 Columbus, OH leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Columbus, OH. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
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 Columbus, OH , you can end your journey in bus stations like Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH, Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH .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 Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH:
  • 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 Columbus, OH:
  • 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 Columbus, OH. 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 Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Columbus, OH, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular nightlife districts. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and fake ticket sellers for events. It's advisable to use authorized transportation options and stay in well-lit, populated areas to enhance 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 Columbus, OH

Most Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School) station pair, with some services arriving at Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH 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 Columbus

Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Columbus, OH leave from?

Buses from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH 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, 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, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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.

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