- Must visit
The Strong National Museum of Play
Interactive museum devoted to play, toys, and children's books. It is Rochester's signature family attraction and home of the National Toy Hall of Fame.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$86
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$91
Fastest journey on Sep 20
14 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
18 h 33 m
Buses on Sep 20
2
Distance
835 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, NY will cost around $91 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY without transferring at least once.
· 6:00 PM14h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station9:40 AMRochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), NY$861One-way1 transfer- · · · 10:15 AM22h25Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL9:40 AMRochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), NY$961One-way3 transfers
- · 6:00 PM14h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station9:40 AMRochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), NY$861One-way1 transfer
- · · · 10:15 AM22h25Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL9:40 AMRochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), NY$961One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $114 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 3m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.3 - 0.8kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $114, while a flight costs an average of $490.
Distance: 518 miles (835 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$114 Average price Cheapest | $154 Average price | $490 Average price | $179 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 53m Average total duration 17h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 0m Average total duration 11h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration Fastest 4h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.8 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.5 - 5.0kg 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 Rochester, NY is a bus with an average price of $114.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY:
A bus is $40 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY costing on average $154.
A bus is $376 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY costing on average $490.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 3m.
Other travel options to Rochester, NY take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 30m.
Bus takes on average 17h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, 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 $114 compared to roughly $179 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $65. The journey takes 17h 23m versus 8h 52m 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 Rochester, NY Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 09:40AM | Duration 22h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:40AM | Duration 14h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $64 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 22h25 | 9:40 AM Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), NY | 3 transfers | |
| · | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 14h40 | 9:40 AM Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), NY | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, NY buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as Barons Bus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY.
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 Barons Bus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY.
- 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 Rochester, NY.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- 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 Rochester, NY.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY run on average 2 times per day, taking around 17h 23m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $68 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 518 miles (835 km) distance in 12h 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
Distance 518 miles (835 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $68 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 12h 20m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 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 Rochester, NYYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $68. 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
18h 35m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$73
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
12h 20m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$68
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 Rochester, NY
Things to do in Rochester, NY
Discover the best of Rochester, NY — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rochester, NY trip today.
- Must visit
George Eastman Museum
Major photography and film museum founded by George Eastman. Visit the mansion, gardens, and world-class collections in a landmark estate.
- Recommended
Memorial Art Gallery
University museum with strong old master, American, and modern holdings. A smart stop for high-quality art in a calm academic setting.
- Must visit
Highland Park
Rochester's most iconic park, famous for lilacs, arboretum plantings, and the annual festival. It is beautiful in spring and peaceful year-round.
- Must visit
High Falls Terrace Park
Scenic riverfront park framing High Falls, one of the city's defining natural views. It is an easy stop for photos and industrial history.
- Must visit
Ontario Beach Park
Waterfront park on Lake Ontario with beach access, lighthouse views, and broad sunsets. It is Rochester's classic summer nature outing.
Garbage Plate
Rochester’s signature late-night plate of home fries, macaroni salad, and meats topped with hot meat sauce, mustard, and onions.
White Hot
A white hot dog made with uncured pork, beef, and veal. It is a regional specialty usually served on a bun with mustard and onions.
Beef On Weck
Thin-sliced roast beef on a kummelweck roll topped with coarse salt and caraway. Popular in western New York and common in Rochester.
Richardson's Canal House
Established fine dining destination serving polished New American cuisine in an elegant, historic setting with strong local acclaim.
DiBella's Old Fashioned Submarines
Beloved old-school Italian market and sandwich counter known for gigantic subs, pasta salads, and a classic Rochester neighborhood feel.
Charley Brown's Restaurant
Long-running Rochester institution for steaks, seafood, and classic American fare in a warm supper-club atmosphere.
US Dollar ($)
More affordable than larger US cities; hotels, dining, and local transit are usually moderate for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a mid-range restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small tips at cafes.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Rochester, 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 Rochester, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY can start from as little as $68 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY is $114 ; 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 Rochester, NY is 12h 20m to travel the 518 miles (835 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 Rochester, NY leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY which require at least one change with Greyhound, Barons Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY, you can count on Greyhound, Barons Bus for the best way to get you to Rochester, NY. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Rochester, 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 Rochester, NY , you can end your journey in bus stations like Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), 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 Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop), NY, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Rochester, NY from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 12h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Rochester, NY including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Rochester, 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 Rochester, NY.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Rochester, 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 Rochester, NY:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Rochester, 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Rochester, 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 Rochester, NY, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transportation hubs. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers and fraudulent ticket sales for local attractions. It's advisable to use reputable transportation services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Staying in well-lit, populated areas at night also enhances 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 Rochester, NY
Most Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Rochester, 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 Rochester
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Rochester, NY leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Rochester, 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, 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, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
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.
Which Rochester, NY station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY arrive at Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop). Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop) is 0 miles (1 km) from Rochester, NY city centre.
Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop)120-124 Pleasant St, Rochester, NY 14604, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop) from Rochester city centre
TRUE
Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop) bus station facilities and services
Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop) 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 Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop). ATMs are available at Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rochester, Pleasant St (Greyhound Stop): Accessible for disabled passengers.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Rochester, NY
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Rochester, NY and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Rochester, NY
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