- Must visit
The Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the United States, known for its Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and iconic collections in a landmark downtown building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$320
Average price
$370
Fastest journey
1 d 20 h 25 m
Average duration
2 d 2 h 34 m
Buses per day
8
Distance
2802 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $370 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $320.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
+
FlixBus12:55 PM49h10Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3201One-way1 transfer- · · 6:00 PM44h25Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3301One-way2 transfers
- · +FlixBus11:30 PM52h15Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA5:45 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3401One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 1:20 PM64h40Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$3481One-way4 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 1:20 PM61h00Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA4:20 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3701One-way4 transfers
- · · 6:00 PM44h25Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3301One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus12:55 PM49h10Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3201One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus11:30 PM52h15Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA5:45 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3401One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus++FlixBus9:35 AM52h30Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$3901One-way2 transfers
- · · 11:30 PM54h30Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$4081One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $85. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 1m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $85, and a bus costs an average of $142.
Distance: 1741 miles (2802 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$356 Average price | $333 Average price | $265 Average price Cheapest |
47h 14m Average total duration 46h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 48h 35m Average total duration 48h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 1m Average total duration Fastest 5h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.4 - 16.8kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $265 (€214).
This is compared to other travel options from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $68 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $333 (€269).
A flight is $91 (€73) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $356 (€287).
The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 1m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 46h 44m.
Train takes on average 48h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 59h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $193 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 52h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $194 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 49h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $181 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 64h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $183 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 44h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $182 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 54h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $179 |
Live departures
Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 12:35 AM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA | 59h10 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus++FlixBus | 9:35 AM Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA | 52h30 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 9:35 AM Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA | 68h25 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 12:55 PM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA | 49h10 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| · · | 6:00 PM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA | 44h25 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus or LA DOT offer buses services from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Los Angeles, CA 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 or LA DOT to find the best option for your trip from Los Angeles, CA 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Los Angeles, CA 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 or LA DOT to find the best option for your trip from Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 9 times per day, taking around 46h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $142 (€114) but you can travel from only $85 (€68) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1741 miles (2802 km) distance in 44h 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
Flight from $85 (€68)
Distance 1741 miles (2802 km) |
Average bus duration 46h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $142 (€114) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 44h 25m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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 $85 (€68)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus, LA DOT from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus, LA DOT for as low as $85 (€68). 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
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
44h 25m
Cheapest Price
$142 (€114)
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.
LA DOT
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
51h 43m
Cheapest Price
$561 (€453)
LA DOT frequency
1 a day
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
A world-class natural history museum famous for its dinosaur fossils, ancient cultures, and major scientific collections, including the celebrated T. rex specimen SUE.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large interactive science museum in Hyde Park with hands-on exhibits, transportation displays, and family-friendly experiences in a grand historic building.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park combines major public art, gardens, and event spaces, making it one of the city’s essential first stops for visitors.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known stretch of Michigan Avenue is lined with landmark buildings, shops, and hotels, and serves as a central walking route for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A highly popular waterfront promenade with excellent architecture views, bridges, and easy access to boat tours. It is one of the city’s most scenic urban walks.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick, buttery-crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thin-sliced seasoned roast beef served on a long roll, often dipped in jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera.
Girl & the Goat
A celebrated West Loop restaurant with bold small plates, creative flavors, and a vibrant, modern atmosphere.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally renowned fine-dining destination known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A classic Chicago pizzeria famous for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is reasonable, but hotels, parking, and fine dining add up fast.
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 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotels: USD 2-5 for housekeeping; USD 1-2 per bag.
FAQs: Bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $142 (€114) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is $356 (€287) ; 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is 44h 25m to travel the 1741 miles (2802 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus, LA DOT. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus, LA DOT for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Los Angeles, CA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Los Angeles, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 44h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Los Angeles, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Los Angeles
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Los Angeles is Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) for your trip from Los Angeles to Chicago.
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)
information
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes
information
Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip to Chicago from Los Angeles.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Most popular bus connections from Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Los Angeles, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA
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