- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price
$44
Average price
$72
Fastest journey
3 h 15 m
Average duration
3 h 32 m
Buses per day
15
Distance
263 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Of the 15 buses that leave Indianapolis, IN for Chicago, IL on Sun, Aug 23, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 23 the direct buses cover the 263 km distance in an average of 3 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .
On Sun, Aug 23 the slowest buses will take 3 h 40 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.

FlixBus
FlixBus

FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a flight costs an average of $86.
Distance: 163 miles (263 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$48 Average price Cheapest | $105 Average price | $279 Average price | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 26m Average total duration 3h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 52m Average total duration 4h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.6kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $57 (€46) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL costing on average $105 (€84).
A bus is $231 (€186) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL costing on average $279 (€224).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 56m.
Train takes on average 4h 22m.
Tickets start at around $48 (€39) compared to roughly $52 (€42) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $4 (€3). The journey takes 3h 56m versus 2h 43m 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 FlixBus, 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:55PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
The table below shows live departures for Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL buses for today, Saturday, August 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 3:15 AM Indianapolis, IN | 3h55 | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:20 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 4h05 | 8:25 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:20 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 3h40 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:40 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 5h00 | 10:40 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 8:10 AM Indianapolis, IN | 4h20 | 11:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:30 AM Indianapolis, IN | 3h30 | 12:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:25 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 4h45 | 2:10 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:25 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 4h20 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 12:35 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 3h40 | 3:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 1:30 PM Indianapolis, IN | 3h45 | 4:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:10 PM Indianapolis, IN | 3h45 | 6:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:40 PM Indianapolis, IN | 3h40 | 7:20 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:35 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 3h35 | 8:10 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:55 PM Indianapolis, IN | 3h15 | 12:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) if you book in advance.
There are 13 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 163 miles (263 km) distance in 3h 15m.
Distance 163 miles (263 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Buses per day 14 |
Direct buses 13 |
Fastest bus 3h 15m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 days |
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Indianapolis, IN 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.

Most Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL buses use the Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Indianapolis, IN and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Fast food outlets are available.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. ATMs are aTM is located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station).
Available at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station): The station is wheelchair accessible.
Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building). ATMs are available at Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building).
Ticket office support is available at Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building).
Available at Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building): Wheelchair accessible buses available.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station is 14 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances available.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need