Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL bus with FlixBus

Thu, Aug 27
+ Add return
FlixBus
Greyhound
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Greyhound
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Aug 27

Cheapest price

€64

Average price

€68

Fastest journey

9 h

Average duration

11 h 32 m

Buses per day

5

Distance

511 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL will cost around €68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €64.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    8:35 PM9h00
    Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO
    5:35 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    641One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    8:30 AM12h05
    Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO
    8:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    641One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    8:05 PM9h30
    Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO
    5:35 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    641One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    10:40 AM9h55
    Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO
    8:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    671One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound · ·
    8:35 PM17h10
    Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO
    1:45 PMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    821One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, flight, and train for Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €43, and a flight costs an average of €148.

Distance: 317 miles (511 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Flight
Driving

€71

Average price

Cheapest

€85

Average price

€537

Average price

€64

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 20m

Average total duration

9h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 22m

Average total duration

7h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 23m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of €71.

This is compared to other travel options from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL:

A bus is €14 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average €85.

A bus is €466 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average €537.

The fastest way to travel from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 23m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 52m.

Bus takes on average 9h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Columbia, MO and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL 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.

Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
12h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
49
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:40AM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
9h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
50
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:05PM
Arrival Time
05:35AM
Duration
9h30
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
50
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
08:35PM
Arrival Time
01:45PM
Duration
17h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
53
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:35PM
Arrival Time
05:35AM
Duration
9h00
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
50

Live departures

Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL bus times

The table below shows live departures for Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL buses for today, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus8:30 AM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO
13h35
10:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus10:40 AM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO
11h25
10:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus8:05 PM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO
9h30
5:35 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL by bus, flight, or train

Compare bus, flight, and train 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.

Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02

Why should you book Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL.

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 Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL.

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 Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 6 times per day, taking around 9h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €43 but you can travel from only €42 by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 317 miles (511 km) distance in 8h 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
Train from €42
Distance
317 miles (511 km)
Average bus duration
9h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
€43
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
8h 20m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
35 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
Train from €42

Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Columbia, MO to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as €43. 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
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
€43
FlixBus frequency
4 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
11h 5m
Cheapest Price
€47
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 Chicago, IL

Things to do in Chicago, IL

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

  • Must visit

Art Institute of Chicago

World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science and Industry

Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.

FAQs: Bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL can start from as little as €43 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is €71 ; 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 Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is 8h 20m to travel the 317 miles (511 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 Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Columbia, MO and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Columbia, MO , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO, Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO . When arriving in Chicago, IL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO, which is located around 4 miles (8 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Columbia, MO is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Columbia, MO and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
  • Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
  • Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
  • Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
  • Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
  • Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
  • Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
  • Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
  • Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
  • Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
  • Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL depends on the bus companies:
  • Greyhound
    • You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Columbia, MO nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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 Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL

Most Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL buses use the Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Columbia, MO and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Columbia
Arrival bus stations in Chicago

Which Columbia, MO station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?

Buses from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL leave from Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza). The station is 5 miles (9 km) from Columbia, MO city centre at US-40, United States.
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza)US-40, United StatesWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) from Columbia city centre

Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) is 8 km from Columbia city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainMissouri River Runner, Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 4h 1m · €184
BusGreyhound US0175s · 2h 45m · €20

Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) bus station facilities and services

Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Several fast food options available within the plaza.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi available inside the truck plaza building. ATMs are aTM machines are available inside the truck plaza.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza): Wheelchair accessible facilities available.

Columbia, Wabash Bus Station126 N 10th St, Columbia, MO 65201, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Columbia, Wabash Bus Station from Columbia city centre

TRUE

Columbia, Wabash Bus Station bus station facilities and services

Columbia, Wabash Bus 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 Columbia, Wabash Bus Station. ATMs are available at Columbia, Wabash Bus Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Columbia, Wabash Bus Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Columbia, Wabash Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Columbia, Wabash Bus Station: Station is accessible for wheelchair users.

Most popular bus connections from Columbia, MO

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone