- Must visit
The National WWII Museum
World-class museum covering the American experience in World War II with immersive exhibits, artifacts, and restored aircraft. One of the city's most important cultural attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$193
Average price
$223
Fastest journey
19 h 10 m
Average duration
1 d 2 h 31 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
1340 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA will cost around $223 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $193.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA without transferring at least once.
· 11:10 PM30h20Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL5:30 AMNew Orleans, LA$1931One-way1 transfer- · 10:50 PM30h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station5:30 AMNew Orleans, LA$1931One-way1 transfer
- · · 2:45 PM26h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station4:50 PMNew Orleans, LA$2271One-way2 transfers
- · 10:40 PM19h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station5:50 PMNew Orleans, LA$2361One-way1 transfer
- · 10:15 AM30h35Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL4:50 PMNew Orleans, LA$2381One-way1 transfer
- · 10:40 PM19h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station5:50 PMNew Orleans, LA$2361One-way1 transfer
- · · 2:45 PM26h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station4:50 PMNew Orleans, LA$2271One-way2 transfers
- · 6:10 AM26h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station8:35 AMNew Orleans, LA$2531One-way1 transfer
- · 11:10 PM30h20Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL5:30 AMNew Orleans, LA$1931One-way1 transfer
- · 10:15 AM30h35Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL4:50 PMNew Orleans, LA$2381One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $97. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $97, and a train costs an average of $121.
Distance: 832 miles (1340 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$193 Average price Cheapest | $244 Average price | $193 Average price | $186 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
24h 6m Average total duration 23h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 13m Average total duration 19h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 38m Average total duration Fastest 2h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.3 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.0 - 8.0kg 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 New Orleans, LA is a bus with an average price of $193 (€159).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA:
A bus is $0.12 (€0.10) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA costing on average $193 (€159).
A bus is $51 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA costing on average $244 (€201).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 38m.
Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:
Train takes on average 19h 43m.
Bus takes on average 23h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 08:35AM | Duration 26h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $136 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 30h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $131 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 26h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 19h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $131 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 30h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $131 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 05:30AM | Duration 30h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $131 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA buses for today, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 26h25 | 8:35 AM New Orleans, LA | 1 transfer | |
| · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 30h35 | 4:50 PM New Orleans, LA | 1 transfer | |
| · · | 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 26h05 | 4:50 PM New Orleans, LA | 2 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 New Orleans, LA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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 New Orleans, LA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.
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 New Orleans, LA.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.
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 New Orleans, LA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 23h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $97 (€80) but you can travel from only $49 (€40) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 05:10, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 832 miles (1340 km) distance in 19h 20m.
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
Flight from $49 (€40)
Distance 832 miles (1340 km) |
Average bus duration 23h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€80) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 19h 20m |
First bus 5:10 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 5 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
Flight from $49 (€40)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $49 (€40). 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
20h 0m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€91)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
19h 20m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€80)
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 New Orleans
Things to do in New Orleans
Discover the best of New Orleans — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect New Orleans trip today.
- Must visit
New Orleans Museum of Art
The city's major fine arts museum in City Park, known for European, American, African, and contemporary works, plus access to the surrounding sculpture garden.
- Recommended
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Leading museum dedicated to Southern art, featuring painting, photography, and contemporary works that explore the culture and history of the American South.
- Must visit
French Quarter
The city's best-known historic neighborhood, filled with balconies, live music, courtyards, and classic New Orleans street life. Essential for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Bourbon Street
World-famous entertainment street known for nightlife, music, neon, and nonstop crowds. A major draw even for travelers who only visit briefly.
- Must visit
Frenchmen Street
Popular music corridor in Faubourg Marigny known for live jazz clubs, night energy, and a strong local following. Frequently highlighted on social media.
Gumbo
A Rich Louisiana Stew Made With A Dark Roux, Aromatics, And Often Seafood Or Sausage. It Is One Of The City’s Signature Creole And Cajun Dishes.
- Gluten-free
Jambalaya
A Spiced Rice Dish Cooked With Meat Or Seafood, Vegetables, And Stock. It Is A Staple Of New Orleans Cooking And Reflects Spanish And French Influences.
Crawfish Étouffée
A Classic Louisiana Dish Of Crawfish Smothered In A Thick, Seasoned Sauce And Served Over Rice. It Is Especially Loved During Crawfish Season.
Commander’s Palace
A Celebrated Garden District Restaurant Known For Refined Creole Cuisine, Elegant Service, And A Historic Dining Room.
Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar
A Long-Running Neighborhood Favorite Known For Traditional Po’ Boys, Especially Fried Seafood Versions, In A Relaxed Old-School Setting.
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant
An Iconic Treme Restaurant Famous For Creole Soul Food, Gumbo, Fried Chicken, And Its Important Place In Local History.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. city standards. Food and drinks can add up in tourist areas, while casual meals stay fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff.
Le Pass
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 1.25
- Day pass
- USD 3.00
To the city center
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans -> Canal Street, New Orleans
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Le Pass is the official NORTA app for buying fares and planning trips on buses, streetcars, and ferries.
- Onboard bus and streetcar fareboxes generally require exact cash, so card payment is not typically accepted on vehicles.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA can start from as little as $97 (€80) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is $193 (€159) ; 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 New Orleans, LA is 19h 20m to travel the 832 miles (1340 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 New Orleans, LA leaves at 5:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to New Orleans, LA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to New Orleans, LA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 19h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA:
- 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 New Orleans, LA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in New Orleans, LA are:
- French Quarter, a historic district known for its vibrant nightlife, colorful buildings, and rich cultural heritage
- Jackson Square, a historic park in the heart of the French Quarter surrounded by iconic landmarks and street performers
- St. Louis Cathedral, a stunning example of French Gothic architecture and the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States
- Garden District, a picturesque neighborhood famous for its well-preserved antebellum mansions and lush gardens
- National WWII Museum, an extensive museum offering immersive exhibits and artifacts detailing the American experience in World War II.
The best things to do in New Orleans, LA include:
- Preservation Hall, enjoy traditional New Orleans jazz performances in an intimate and historic setting
- Audubon Park, relax in this beautiful urban park featuring walking paths, a zoo, and a golf course
- Frenchmen Street, experience the vibrant music scene with live performances in numerous bars and clubs
- Steamboat Natchez, take a scenic cruise along the Mississippi River on an authentic paddlewheel steamboat
- City Park, explore this expansive park with botanical gardens, an art museum, and outdoor activities.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA:
- 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 New Orleans, LA:
- 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 New Orleans, LA. 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 New Orleans, LA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the French Quarter. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated neighborhoods and to use authorized transportation services 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 New Orleans, LA
Most Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to New Orleans, LA station pair, with some services arriving at Kenner, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (Airline Dr). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans
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
New Orleans, LA
Kenner, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (Airline Dr)
City-centre transport
Getting to Kenner, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (Airline Dr) from New Orleans city centre
Bus202 · 25m · $2 · every ~2 min
202 · 29m · $2 · every ~2 min
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from New Orleans, LA and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to New Orleans, LA
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