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The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jan 11
Cheapest price
$164
Average price
$176
Fastest journey
9 h 10 m
Average duration
12 h 17 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 $176 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $164.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
+
FlixBus10:40AM11h25
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO10:05PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1641One-way
1 transfer
+FlixBus08:35PM9h10
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO05:45AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1641One-way
1 transfer
+FlixBus08:05PM9h40
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO05:45AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1661One-way
1 transfer
+FlixBus08:30AM13h35
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO10:05PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1721One-way
1 transfer
undefined · undefined · undefined08:35PM17h35
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO02:10PMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$2151One-way
2 transfers
+FlixBus08:35PM9h10
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO05:45AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1641One-way
1 transfer
+FlixBus08:05PM9h40
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO05:45AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1661One-way
1 transfer
+FlixBus10:40AM11h25
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO10:05PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1641One-way
1 transfer
+FlixBus08:30AM13h35
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO10:05PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1721One-way
1 transfer
undefined · undefined · undefined08:35PM17h35
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO02:10PMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$2151One-way
2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train 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 €41. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €41, and a flight costs an average of €236.
Distance: 317 miles (511 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€60 Average price Cheapest | €66 Average price | €299 Average price |
9h 54m Average total duration 9h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 2m Average total duration 8h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 13h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:05PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 17h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Live departures
Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL buses for tomorrow, Sunday, January 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 10:50 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| +FlixBus | 2:05 AM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 9h40 | 11:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined | 2:35 AM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 17h35 | 8:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 2:35 AM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 9h10 | 11:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 2:30 PM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 13h35 | 4:05 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 4:40 PM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 11h25 | 4:05 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 24m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 317 miles (511 km) distance in 10h 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 317 miles (511 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 10h 20m |
First bus 00:15 |
Last bus 23:50 |
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 Columbia, MO to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $50 (€41). 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
11h 35m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
FlixBus frequency
3 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
10h 20m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
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.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $49 (€40) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is $82 (€66); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL bus time is 10 h 20 min covering the 316 mile (510 km) long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 5: 15AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 11: 50PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound or FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound or FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus providers who offer a service from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
The cheapest month to travel from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL by bus is October.
Yes, you can take a bus to Chicago, IL from Columbia, MO.
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 providers Greyhound and FlixBus.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers Greyhound and FlixBus.
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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
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 companies: Greyhound and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL
Columbia
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Columbia is Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) for your trip from Columbia to Chicago.
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza)
information
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip to Chicago from Columbia.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
information
Most popular bus connections from Columbia, MO
More options for your journey from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Columbia, MO
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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