- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 18
Cheapest price
$235
Average price
$266
Fastest journey
18 h 55 m
Average duration
1 d 41 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
1475 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Denver, CO 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL will cost around $266 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $235.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Denver, CO for Chicago, IL on Thu, Jun 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 18 the direct buses cover the 1475 km distance in an average of 1 d 41 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 18 h 55 m .
On Thu, Jun 18 the slowest buses will take 1 d 8 h 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6:55 PM20h30Denver, Union Station4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2351One-way0 transfers
· 7:20 PM18h55Denver, CO3:15 PMChicago, IL$2501One-way1 transfer- +
FlixBus1:20 PM25h45Denver, Union Station4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2551One-way1 transfer - +FlixBus7:25 PM25h40Denver, Union Station10:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2741One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus8:10 PM32h35Denver, Union Station5:45 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2751One-way2 transfers
- · 7:20 PM18h55Denver, CO3:15 PMChicago, IL$2501One-way1 transfer
- 6:55 PM20h30Denver, Union Station4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2351One-way0 transfers
- +FlixBus7:25 PM25h40Denver, Union Station10:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2741One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus1:20 PM25h45Denver, Union Station4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2551One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus8:10 PM32h35Denver, Union Station5:45 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2751One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Denver, CO to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $74. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, and a train costs an average of $93.
Distance: 916 miles (1475 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$145 Average price Cheapest | $289 Average price | $172 Average price | $212 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
23h 31m Average total duration 23h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 11m Average total duration 18h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 31m Average total duration Fastest 2h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.5 - 3.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.4 - 8.8kg 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $145 (€119).
This is compared to other travel options from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $27 (€22) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL costing on average $172 (€141).
A bus is $143 (€117) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL costing on average $289 (€236).
The fastest way to travel from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 31m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 18h 41m.
Bus takes on average 23h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Denver, CO and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL 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 $145 (€119) compared to roughly $212 (€173) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $67 (€55). The journey takes 23h 1m versus 14h 21m 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.
Direct services are operated by Greyhound.
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.
Denver, CO to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 25h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 20h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 18h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $250 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 25h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 32h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $119 |
Live departures
Denver, CO to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Denver, CO to Chicago, IL buses for today, Wednesday, June 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:55 PM Denver, Union Station | 20h30 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| · · | 7:20 PM Denver, CO | 24h10 | 8:30 PM Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 7:25 PM Denver, Union Station | 25h40 | 10:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| · · | 7:25 PM Denver, Union Station | 35h35 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
| · +FlixBus | 8:10 PM Denver, Union Station | 32h35 | 5:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 1:20 PM Denver, Union Station | 25h45 | 4:05 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL.
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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 23h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $74 (€61) but you can travel from only $35 (€28) by flight.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 916 miles (1475 km) distance in 20h 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 $35 (€28)
Distance 916 miles (1475 km) |
Average bus duration 23h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $74 (€61) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 20h 20m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 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 $35 (€28)
Bus providers: Greyhound from Denver, CO to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Denver, CO to Chicago, IL with Greyhound for as low as $35 (€28). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
20h 20m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€61)
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 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
Major natural history museum famous for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and extensive science collections that appeal to both adults and children.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park featuring a submarine, space exhibits, engineering displays, and immersive family-friendly experiences.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
The city’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, events, and major skyline views that define modern Chicago.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, hotels, and frequent first-time visitor photo stops.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Highly popular waterfront promenade with architecture views, bridges, and one of the best urban walks in the city.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
Gene & Georgetti
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is manageable, but hotels, attractions, and downtown dining can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
FAQs: Bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Denver, CO 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $74 (€61) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Denver, CO to Chicago, IL is $145 (€119) ; 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL is 20h 20m to travel the 916 miles (1475 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Denver, CO and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Denver, CO is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 20h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Denver, CO and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL for bus company 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 Denver, CO 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.
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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL:
- 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Denver, CO 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Denver, CO 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 Denver, CO to Chicago, IL
Most Denver, CO to Chicago, IL buses use the Denver, Union Station to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Denver, CO 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 Denver
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Denver, Union Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Denver, Union Station from Denver city centre
Bus0, 10, 15, 19 · 10m · $4 · every ~27 min
15 · 13m · $4 · every ~12 min
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
Chicago
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Most popular bus connections from Denver, CO
More options for your journey from Denver, CO to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Denver, CO
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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