- 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$83
Average price
$83
Fastest journey
5 h 25 m
Average duration
5 h 25 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave East Lansing, MI for Chicago, IL on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 278 km distance in an average of 5 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 25 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 5 h 25 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.
FlixBus1:10 PM5h25Lansing, Delta Center, MI5:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$831One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus1:10 PM5h25Lansing, Delta Center, MI5:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$831One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $31, and a flight costs an average of $102.
Distance: 172 miles (278 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$67 Average price | $57 Average price Cheapest | $367 Average price | $58 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 47m Average total duration 5h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration 3h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 1h 27m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.7kg 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $57 (€47).
This is compared to other travel options from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL:
A train is $9 (€8) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL costing on average $67 (€54).
A train is $310 (€253) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL costing on average $367 (€300).
The fastest way to travel from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 27m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 52m.
Bus takes on average 5h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between East Lansing, MI and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from East Lansing, MI 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 -3h -3m sooner (5h 17m by bus vs 3h 14m by car) and save roughly $-8.13 (€-6.65) compared to fuel and tolls ($67 (€54) vs $58 (€48)). 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 FlixBus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 03:40AM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Live departures
East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8555 AMTRAK · 355 Wolverine | 1:00 PM East Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI | 9h50 | 9:50 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets East Lansing, MI 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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Why should you book East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 17m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $31 (€26) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 06:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 5h 25m.
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 $31 (€26)
Distance 172 miles (278 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€39) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 5h 25m |
First bus 6:45 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $31 (€26)
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $31 (€26). 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
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
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 Duration
14h 20m
Cheapest Price
$79 (€65)
Greyhound frequency
1 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $48 (€39) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL is $67 (€54) ; 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL is 5h 25m to travel the 172 miles (278 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from East Lansing, MI is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between East Lansing, MI and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL
Most East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL buses use the to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. Use this guide to compare East Lansing, MI 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 East Lansing
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
BusGreyhound US0100 · 20m · $2
29 · 47m · $4 · every ~11 min
29 · 48m · $4 · every ~11 min
SubwayRed Line · 24m · $6 · every ~23 min
Red Line · 25m · $6 · every ~23 min
Most popular bus connections from East Lansing, MI
More options for your journey from East Lansing, MI to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and East Lansing, MI
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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