Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY bus with Greyhound

Sat, Sep 19
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Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $152 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 7m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $152, while a flight costs an average of $762.

Distance: 572 miles (921 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$152

Average price

Cheapest

$762

Average price

$136

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

22h 37m

Average total duration

22h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 7m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

10h 7m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY is a bus with an average price of $152.

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY:

A bus is $610 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY costing on average $762.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 7m.

Other travel options to Ithaca, NY take longer:

Bus takes on average 22h 7m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Ithaca, NY including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY 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 $152 compared to roughly $136 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.76. The journey takes 22h 7m versus 10h 7m 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 Ithaca, NY Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
29h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$84
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
24h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$82
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
21h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$79
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:15PM
Arrival Time
12:10AM
Duration
27h55
Departure days
Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$79

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
37h00
12:15 AM Ithaca, Jessup Rd (Robert Purcell Community Center), NY3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
36h55
12:10 AM Ithaca, West Avenue (Baker Tower), NY3 transfers
Greyhound · · · 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
29h15
4:30 PM Ithaca, East Green Street (Cinemapolis - Downtown Ithaca), NY4 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
24h45
2:10 PM Ithaca, East Green Street (Cinemapolis - Downtown Ithaca), NY1 transfer
Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
21h30
4:30 PM Ithaca, East Green Street (Cinemapolis - Downtown Ithaca), NY2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus+Greyhound · 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
28h00
12:15 AM Ithaca, Jessup Rd (Robert Purcell Community Center), NY4 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus+Greyhound · 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
27h55
12:10 AM Ithaca, West Avenue (Baker Tower), NY4 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 Ithaca, NY by bus or flight

Compare 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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Why should you book Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY buses with Omio?

Greyhound operates all buses services from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • 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 Ithaca, NY.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • 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 Ithaca, NY.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY run on average 5 times per day, taking around 22h 7m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $90 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 02:45, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 572 miles (921 km) distance in 14h 25m.

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
572 miles (921 km)
Average bus duration
22h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$90
Buses per day
5
Fastest bus
14h 25m
First bus
2:45 AM
Last bus
11:15 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
3 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 Ithaca, NYYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $90. 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
22h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$90
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
14h 25m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$90
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 Ithaca, NY

Things to do in Ithaca, NY

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

  • Must visit

Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art

Cornell’s main art museum features global collections from ancient to contemporary works. A top cultural stop with changing exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Sciencenter

Hands-on science museum downtown with interactive exhibits for families and curious adults. It highlights local ecology, engineering, and play.

  • Recommended

Cayuga Nature Center

Educational center focused on local natural history, birds, and regional habitats. Trails and exhibits make it a strong family outing.

United States dollar ($)

Moderate for a small U.S. college town: hotels can be pricey on peak weekends, dining is mid-range, and local transit is low cost.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY can start from as little as $90 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY is $152 ; 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 Ithaca, NY is 14h 25m to travel the 572 miles (921 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 Ithaca, NY leaves at 2:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY leaves at 11:15 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Ithaca, NY. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Ithaca, NY 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 Ithaca, NY , you can end your journey in bus stations like Ithaca, East Green Street (Cinemapolis - Downtown Ithaca), NY, Ithaca, Jessup Rd (Robert Purcell Community Center), NY, Ithaca, West Avenue (Baker Tower), 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 Ithaca, East Green Street (Cinemapolis - Downtown Ithaca), NY, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Ithaca, NY from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Ithaca, NY including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Ithaca, NY are:
  • Cornell Botanic Gardens, a vast natural area featuring themed gardens, arboretums, and scenic trails
  • Ithaca Falls, a stunning waterfall located near downtown offering picturesque views and a serene atmosphere
  • The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, an art museum on Cornell University's campus with diverse collections and panoramic views of Cayuga Lake
  • Cascadilla Gorge Trail, a popular hiking trail with a series of beautiful waterfalls and stone staircases
  • Robert H. Treman State Park, a state park known for its rugged gorge, waterfalls, and swimming areas.
The best things to do in Ithaca, NY include:
  • Tour the Ithaca Farmers Market, a vibrant market offering local produce, crafts, and food
  • Attend a performance at the State Theatre of Ithaca, a historic venue hosting concerts, plays, and films
  • Explore the Sciencenter, an interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits for all ages
  • Visit the Museum of the Earth, featuring exhibits on the history of the Earth and its life forms
  • Enjoy a wine tasting tour along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, sampling local wines and enjoying scenic views.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 Ithaca, NY.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY:
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Ithaca, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, 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 Ithaca, NY, travelers should stay aware of typical urban safety concerns such as occasional petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like downtown and near Cornell University. While violent crime rates are relatively low, it’s advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night. Scams targeting travelers are uncommon, but standard precautions against overcharging or misleading offers for tours and transportation should be taken. Using official vendors and verified services helps ensure a safe experience.
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 Ithaca, NY

Most Chicago, IL to Ithaca, NY buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Ithaca, East Green Street (Cinemapolis - Downtown Ithaca) station pair, with some services arriving at Ithaca, Jessup Rd (Robert Purcell Community Center). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Ithaca, 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 Ithaca

Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Ithaca, NY leave from?

Buses from Chicago, IL to Ithaca, 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, 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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