- Must visit
Ellwood House Museum
A restored 1879 Victorian mansion and estate interpreting DeKalb history, architecture, and the barbed wire era. One of the city's best-known heritage attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$19
Average price
$21
Fastest journey
1 h 35 m
Average duration
1 h 43 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
92 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL 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 DeKalb, IL will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Chicago, IL for DeKalb, IL on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 92 km distance in an average of 1 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 35 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 2 h 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.
12:10 PM1h35Chicago, IL1:45 PMDeKalb, IL$191One-way0 transfers- 11:10 AM1h35Chicago, IL12:45 PMDeKalb, IL$201One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 PM2h00Chicago, IL9:50 PMDeKalb, IL$251One-way0 transfers
- 12:10 PM1h35Chicago, IL1:45 PMDeKalb, IL$191One-way0 transfers
- 11:10 AM1h35Chicago, IL12:45 PMDeKalb, IL$201One-way0 transfers
- 7:50 PM2h00Chicago, IL9:50 PMDeKalb, IL$251One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a bus costs an average of $11.
Distance: 57 miles (92 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$23 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL is a bus with an average price of $23 (€19).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 44m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Chicago, IL and DeKalb, IL.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -34m sooner (1h 44m by bus vs 1h 10m by car) and save roughly $-5.11 (€-4.18) compared to fuel and tolls ($23 (€19) vs $18 (€15)). 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 Greyhound.
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 DeKalb, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL buses for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:10 AM Chicago, IL | 1h35 | 12:45 PM DeKalb, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:10 PM Chicago, IL | 1h35 | 1:45 PM DeKalb, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:50 PM Chicago, IL | 2h00 | 9:50 PM DeKalb, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL by bus
Compare bus 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
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Jun 21
Jun 21
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Jun 26
Why should you book Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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 Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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.
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 DeKalb, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 1h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 13:50. The fastest bus covers the 57 miles (92 km) distance in 1h 35m.
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 57 miles (92 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 1h 35m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 1:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, ILYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $11 (€9). 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
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€25)
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
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Greyhound frequency
2 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 DeKalb
Things to do in DeKalb
Discover the best of DeKalb — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect DeKalb trip today.
- Recommended
Joseph F. Glidden Homestead and Historical Center
Historic homestead of Joseph Glidden, inventor of a successful barbed wire design. Small but important local museum for agricultural and industrial history.
- Recommended
NIU Art Museum
University art museum with rotating exhibitions of contemporary, regional, and global art. A strong cultural stop on the Northern Illinois University campus.
- Must visit
Downtown DeKalb
The city's main walking district with historic buildings, murals, shops, events, and the Egyptian Theatre. The best area for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Northern Illinois University Campus
A broad walkable campus with collegiate architecture, museums, public art, and green spaces. A key area shaping DeKalb's identity.
- Recommended
Prairie Park
Large community park with trails, open lawns, sports areas, and a relaxed local atmosphere. Good for a casual walk or picnic.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, sport peppers, a pickle spear, and celery salt. It is a classic Northern Illinois favorite often found around DeKalb
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thin-sliced roast beef simmered in seasoned jus and served on a long roll, often dipped and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is one of the most iconic regional sandwiches near DeKalb
- Vegetarian
Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. While associated with Chicago, it is a familiar special-occasion dish across Northern Illinois
The Junction Eating Place
A popular breakfast and lunch spot known for skillets, pancakes, sandwiches, and friendly small-town diner service
Ellwood Steak and Fish House
An established steakhouse offering steaks, seafood, and classic American dishes in a polished, traditional setting suitable for a nicer dinner
Fatty's Pub and Grille
A long-running DeKalb favorite known for burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and a lively sports-pub atmosphere with a broad beer selection
United States Dollar
Costs are generally lower than in major U.S. cities. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and upscale dining vary by season and events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 8-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 15-30 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 40-70 per person at an upscale restaurant.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants before tax. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or add 10-15% for taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL can start from as little as $11 (€9) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL is $23 (€19) ; 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 DeKalb, IL is 1h 35m to travel the 57 miles (92 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 DeKalb, IL leaves at 6:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL leaves at 1:50 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to DeKalb, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and DeKalb, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to DeKalb, IL from Chicago, IL is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL is December.
Yes, you can take a bus between Chicago, IL and DeKalb, IL.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL:
- 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 DeKalb, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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 Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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 Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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 Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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 Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor DeKalb, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-frequented areas. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services or vendors. It is advisable to use licensed transportation and remain aware of surroundings, particularly at night, to 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 DeKalb, IL
Most Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and DeKalb, IL 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 DeKalb
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
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
Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall)
City-centre transport
Getting to Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall) from DeKalb city centre
Bus12, 16, 17 · 20m · $1 · every ~9 min
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to DeKalb, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from DeKalb, IL and Chicago, IL
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