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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 07
Cheapest price on Sep 07
$74
Average ticket price on Sep 07
$74
Fastest journey on Sep 07
5 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 07
5 h 30 m
Buses on Sep 07
1
Distance
278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI will cost around $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.
Fast buses
On Mon, Sep 07, we found 1 buses from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI, including 1 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 07 the direct buses cover the 278 km distance in an average of 5 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 30 m .
On Mon, Sep 07 the slowest buses will take 5 h 30 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.
FlixBus9:30 AM5h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station4:00 PMLansing, Delta Center, MI$741One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:30 AM5h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station4:00 PMLansing, Delta Center, MI$741One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $64 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 28m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $64, while a flight costs an average of $612.
Distance: 172 miles (278 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$69 Average price | $64 Average price Cheapest | $612 Average price | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 43m Average total duration 6h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration Fastest 3h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 26m Average total duration 4h 26m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.7kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is a train with an average price of $64 (€52).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI costing on average $69 (€56).
A train is $548 (€443) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI costing on average $612 (€494).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is by train with an average journey time of 3h 58m.
Other travel options to East Lansing, MI take longer:
Flight takes on average 4h 26m.
Bus takes on average 6h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and East Lansing, MI including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $69 (€56) compared to roughly $60 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-9.45 (€-7.64). The journey takes 6h 13m versus 3h 14m 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.
Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $51 |
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Why should you book Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:45, the last at 22:10. The fastest bus covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 5h 0m.
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 $32 (€26)
Distance 172 miles (278 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 6:45 AM |
Last bus 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $32 (€26)
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MIYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $32 (€26). 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
5h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$38 (€31)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
8h 30m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$73 (€59)
Greyhound frequency
1 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 East Lansing, MI
Things to do in East Lansing, MI
Discover the best of East Lansing, MI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect East Lansing, MI trip today.
- Recommended
Michigan State University Museum
Natural history museum featuring Michigan wildlife, fossils, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly science displays.
- Recommended
Abrams Planetarium Exhibit Area
Small interpretive display venue within the planetarium, exploring astronomy history and space science for visitors.
- Must visit
MSU River Trail
Beloved riverside campus walk lined with gardens, bridges, and classic university scenery in every season.
- Recommended
Grand River Avenue
Major downtown street with shops, student energy, and easy access to East Lansing's most active urban core.
- Recommended
West Circle Drive Historic District
Central university boulevard known for broad lawns, iconic buildings, and a classic introduction to MSU's campus.
- Vegetarian
Detroit-Style Pizza
Detroit-style pizza has a thick, airy crust, crisp cheese edges, and striped sauce. It is a signature Michigan pie often found around East Lansing.
Coney Dog
Coney dog is a Michigan classic: a hot dog topped with chili sauce, mustard, and onions. It is a staple late-night and diner food across the state.
Olive Burger
Olive burger is strongly associated with Mid-Michigan. The beef burger is topped with a creamy olive sauce, making it a regional specialty near Lansing.
Bowdie's Chophouse
Established steakhouse and seafood restaurant with a polished, traditional setting. Known for reliable service and special-occasion dining.
Crunchy's
Long-running East Lansing institution serving burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food in a casual pub setting near Michigan State University.
The People's Kitchen
Popular modern diner known for creative brunch, breakfast, and lunch plates. Bright, casual atmosphere with a strong local reputation.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for a U.S. college town: dining is reasonable, hotels can rise on game weekends, and local transit is low-cost for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-20% for strong service. Taxis usually round up or add 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars; $1-2 is common for drinks.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI can start from as little as $38 (€31) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is $69 (€56) ; 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 East Lansing, MI is 5h 0m to travel the 172 miles (278 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 East Lansing, MI leaves at 6:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI leaves at 10:10 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to East Lansing, MI. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and East Lansing, MI 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, 95th Red Line Station . When arriving in East Lansing, MI , you can end your journey in bus stations like Lansing, Delta Center, MI .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 Lansing, Delta Center, MI, located 6 away from the city centre.
A trip to East Lansing, MI from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and East Lansing, MI including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI:
- 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 East Lansing, MI for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI 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 FlixBus, Greyhound.
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 East Lansing, MI.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI:
- 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 East Lansing, MI:
- 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 East Lansing, MI. 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 East Lansing, MI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially around crowded areas like Michigan State University events. Common scams include fake ticket sellers and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use authorized transportation and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night.
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 East Lansing, MI
Most Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Lansing, Delta Center station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to East Lansing, MI leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI 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, 95th Red Line Station95th Red Line Station, Chicago, IL 60620, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station is 14 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
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
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, 95th Red Line 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 Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances available.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to East Lansing, MI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from East Lansing, MI and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to East Lansing, MI
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