- Recommended
Spurlock Museum
University museum showcasing global cultures, archaeology, and changing exhibitions. It is a top stop for learning about art, history, and anthropology.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from New Orleans, LA to Champaign, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $158. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 16h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $158, and a bus costs an average of $216.
Distance: 709 miles (1142 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$216 Average price | $177 Average price Cheapest | $161 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
19h 5m Average total duration 18h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 7m Average total duration Fastest 16h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from New Orleans, LA to Champaign, IL:
A train is $39 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from New Orleans, LA to Champaign, IL costing on average $216.
Other travel options to Champaign, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 18h 35m.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 18h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $114 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 18h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $216 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 21h40 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 30h05 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 20h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $147 |
The table below shows live departures for New Orleans, LA to Champaign, IL buses for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· + FlixBus | 8:50 PM New Orleans, LA | 30h05 | 2:55 AM Champaign, I. T. at Market St. | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus 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 New Orleans, LA to Champaign, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 18h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $216 but you can travel from only $158 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 03:00, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 709 miles (1142 km) distance in 18h 35m.
Distance 709 miles (1142 km) |
Average bus duration 18h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $216 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 18h 35m |
First bus 3:00 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Discover the best of Champaign, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Champaign, IL trip today.
University museum showcasing global cultures, archaeology, and changing exhibitions. It is a top stop for learning about art, history, and anthropology.
Art museum with strong ancient, modern, and decorative arts collections. Its thoughtful galleries and campus setting make it a cultural highlight.
Hands-on children's museum with STEM, art, and play-based exhibits. Families value it for interactive learning and year-round indoor fun.
Main campus quad framed by landmark university buildings. This classic green is ideal for strolling, photos, and experiencing student life.
Compact downtown district with historic buildings, murals, events, and nightlife. It is the best area for walking and seeing Champaign's urban character.
Beloved campus green with mature trees and a lively atmosphere. It is one of the university's most recognizable outdoor gathering places.
A Midwestern horseshoe with Texas toast, hamburger patties, fries, and cheese sauce. Popular across Central Illinois as a hearty regional comfort food.
Thin-crust tavern-style pizza cut into squares. A beloved Illinois bar and family pizza style with crisp edges and easy shareability.
Breaded pork tenderloin pounded thin and served as a sandwich. A classic downstate Illinois and Midwest diner favorite.
Refined American restaurant in downtown Champaign with seasonal dishes, craft cocktails, and an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere.
Iconic campus-area spot known for deep-fried pizza and a lively student atmosphere. A longtime Champaign favorite for casual local eating.
Popular brewpub serving house beers, burgers, and pub fare in a casual setting. A reliable choice for local beer and hearty meals.
Moderate for U.S. college cities: hotels vary by events, dining is reasonable, and local transit is low-cost, but car use can add expense.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, about 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 for café drinks if there is table service. Counter-service tips are optional.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New Orleans, LA to Champaign, 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 Champaign, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most New Orleans, LA to Champaign, IL buses use the New Orleans, LA to Champaign, I. T. at Market St. station pair. Use this guide to compare New Orleans, LA and Champaign, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
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