- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$110
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$117
Fastest journey on Sep 20
11 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
16 h 6 m
Buses on Sep 20
5
Distance
661 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Kansas City, 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 Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
It's difficult to get from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
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· · Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $123 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $123, while a flight costs an average of $685.
Distance: 410 miles (661 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$123 Average price Cheapest | $149 Average price | $685 Average price | $105 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 26m Average total duration 12h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 49m Average total duration 9h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 45m Average total duration Fastest 4h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.7 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.0 - 4.0kg 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 Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $26 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $149.
A bus is $562 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $685.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 19m.
Bus takes on average 12h 56m.
Tickets start at around $123 compared to roughly $105 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-18.30. The journey takes 12h 56m versus 7h 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.
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 04:10AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 16h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 21h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 21h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $86 |
The table below shows live departures for Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
+ FlixBus | 8:40 AM Kansas City, Jefferson Lines | 11h55 | 8:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
· · | 3:50 PM Kansas City, Jefferson Lines | 21h55 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 3:50 PM Kansas City, Jefferson Lines | 13h45 | 5:35 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
+ FlixBus | 8:35 PM Kansas City, Jefferson Lines | 21h00 | 5:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
+ FlixBus | 4:10 AM Kansas City, Jefferson Lines | 11h55 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
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 Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 12h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $65 but you can travel from only $63 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 410 miles (661 km) distance in 10h 5m.
Distance 410 miles (661 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $65 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 10h 5m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 35 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 Kansas City, 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.

Most Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL buses use the Kansas City, Jefferson Lines to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Kansas City, MO and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Kansas City, Jefferson Lines has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi available. ATMs are available at Kansas City, Jefferson Lines.
Ticket office support is available at Kansas City, Jefferson Lines.
Available at Kansas City, Jefferson Lines: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Kansas City, Jefferson Lines: Wheelchair accessible.
Kansas City, 47th St (Transit Center) is 9 km from Kansas City city centre. Public transport options include:
Kansas City, 47th St (Transit Center) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Nearby dining options are available within walking distance.
Free Wi-Fi is available at the transit center. ATMs are aTM located near the transit center entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Kansas City, 47th St (Transit Center).
Available at Kansas City, 47th St (Transit Center): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Kansas City, 47th St (Transit Center): Accessible ramps and seating 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