- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
Cheapest
+
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1031•One-way
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$1281•One-way
2nd cheapest, Fastest
+Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1051•One-way
2nd Fastest
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$1261•One-way
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Columbia, MO to Chicago, ILShowing times and prices for Jul 11
Cheapest price
$103
Average price
$115
Fastest journey
9h 10m
Average duration
13h 25m
Buses per day
4
Distance
518 km
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Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL bus with Greyhound
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 train with prices starting from $57. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $57, and a flight costs an average of $192.
Distance: 317 miles (511 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$102 Average price | $57 Average price Cheapest | $284 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 25m Average total duration 9h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 49m Average total duration 8h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration Fastest 1h 32m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $57 (€47).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL:
A train is $45 (€37) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $102 (€84).
A train is $227 (€187) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $284 (€234).
The fastest way to travel from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 32m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 19m.
Bus takes on average 9h 55m.
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
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 13h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 13h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $97 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:05PM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 17h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:05PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 17h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Everyday | 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 today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 + FlixBus | 8:05 PM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 9h40 | 5:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| · · | 8:05 PM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 17h40 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 8:35 PM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 9h10 | 5:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| · · | 8:35 PM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 17h10 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, July 12 | |||||
| +FlixBus | 8:30 AM Columbia, Wabash Bus Station, MO | 13h35 | 10:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 10:40 AM Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza), MO | 11h25 | 10:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 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.
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Why should you book Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus 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 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 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 Greyhound 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 FlixBus 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
Buses from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 6 times per day, taking around 9h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $58 (€48) but you can travel from only $57 (€47) 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 9h 10m.
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 $57 (€47)
Distance 317 miles (511 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€48) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 9h 10m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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 $57 (€47)
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 $57 (€47). 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
9h 10m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
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
17h 10m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€49)
Greyhound frequency
3 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
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Renowned natural history museum known for dinosaur fossils, global anthropology collections, and the famous T. rex, SUE.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Large hands-on science museum with a U-505 submarine, space exhibits, and interactive displays popular with families.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature public park, home to major public art, gardens, and frequent events in the city center.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue known for landmark buildings, shopping, and one of the city’s busiest visitor corridors.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Popular pedestrian waterfront lined with views of major architecture, bridges, and boat activity through downtown.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
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 $58 (€48) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL is $102 (€84) ; 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 9h 10m 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 Greyhound, 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, FlixBus 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.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Columbia, MO is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 10m 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, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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.
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 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 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: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbia, MO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
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
Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza)
City-centre transport
Getting to Columbia, Highway 40 W (Midway Truck Plaza) from Columbia city centre
TrainMissouri River Runner, Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 4h 1m · $224
BusGreyhound US0175s · 2h 45m · $24
Columbia, Wabash Bus Station
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
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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