- 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$46
Average price
$57
Fastest journey
4 h 45 m
Average duration
5 h 58 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
186 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Normal, IL for Chicago, IL on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 186 km distance in an average of 5 h 58 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 45 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 7 h 35 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.
1:10 PM5h35Bloomington, Normal Railway Station6:45 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$461One-way0 transfers- +
FlixBus11:20 AM4h45Bloomington, Normal Railway Station4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$621One-way1 transfer - +FlixBus2:30 PM7h35Bloomington, Normal Railway Station10:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$621One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus11:20 AM4h45Bloomington, Normal Railway Station4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$621One-way1 transfer
- 1:10 PM5h35Bloomington, Normal Railway Station6:45 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$461One-way0 transfers
- +FlixBus2:30 PM7h35Bloomington, Normal Railway Station10:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$621One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 13m. 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 train costs an average of $14, and a flight costs an average of $141.
Distance: 115 miles (186 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$49 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $266 Average price | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 57m Average total duration 4h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 54m Average total duration 2h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 13m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 1h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $41 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL:
A train is $8 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average $49 (€40).
A train is $225 (€184) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average $266 (€218).
The fastest way to travel from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 13m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 24m.
Bus takes on average 4h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL 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 -30m sooner (4h 27m by bus vs 1h 57m by car) and save roughly $-22.35 (€-18.29) compared to fuel and tolls ($49 (€40) vs $27 (€22)). 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 Greyhound.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Normal, IL to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $47 |
Live departures
Normal, IL to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Normal, IL to Chicago, IL buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| +FlixBus | 2:30 PM Bloomington, Normal Railway Station | 7h35 | 10:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| FlixBus+ | 11:20 AM Bloomington, Normal Railway Station | 4h45 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| 1:10 PM Bloomington, Normal Railway Station | 5h35 | 6:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Normal, IL 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 to find the best option for your trip from Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL 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 to find the best option for your trip from Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) but you can travel from only $14 (€12) by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:30, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 115 miles (186 km) distance in 3h 40m.
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 $14 (€12)
Distance 115 miles (186 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€24) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 3h 40m |
First bus 6:30 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 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 $14 (€12)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Normal, IL to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Normal, IL to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $14 (€12). 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
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
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
5h 35m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $30 (€24) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is $49 (€40) ; 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is 3h 40m to travel the 115 miles (186 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:10 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Normal, IL and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Normal, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Normal, IL and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL 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 Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
Normal
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Normal is Bloomington, Normal Railway Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bloomington, Normal Railway Station for your trip from Normal to Chicago.
Bloomington, Normal Railway Station
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 Normal.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Most popular bus connections from Normal, IL
More options for your journey from Normal, IL to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Normal, IL
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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