Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL bus with Greyhound

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

CHF148

Average ticket price on Sep 19

CHF176

Fastest journey on Sep 19

2 d 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

2 d 15 h 18 m

Buses on Sep 19

5

Distance

2970 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around CHF176 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF148.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Greyhound · ·
    1:40 PM48h45
    Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
    4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    CHF1481One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus
    12:35 AM61h30
    Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
    4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    CHF1641One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    1:40 PM64h20
    Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
    8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    CHF1681One-way
    4 transfers
  • Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus
    11:05 PM63h00
    Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
    4:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    CHF1861One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    11:05 PM78h55
    Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
    8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    CHF2141One-way
    4 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF267 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 54h 24m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF267, while a train costs an average of CHF431.

Distance: 1845 miles (2970 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

CHF267

Average price

Cheapest

CHF431

Average price

54h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

53h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

56h 51m

Average total duration

56h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of CHF267.

This is compared to other travel options from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL:

A bus is CHF164 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average CHF431.

A bus is CHF294 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average CHF561.

The fastest way to travel from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 50m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Bus takes on average 53h 54m.

Train takes on average 56h 21m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.

Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:35AM
Arrival Time
04:05PM
Duration
61h30
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
CHF142
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
01:40PM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
64h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
CHF130
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:05PM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
78h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
CHF166

Live departures

Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL bus times

The table below shows live departures for Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus12:35 AM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
61h30
4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2 transfers
Greyhound · · 1:40 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
48h45
4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2 transfers
Greyhound · · · 1:40 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA
64h20
8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL4 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL by train or bus

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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?

Greyhound operates all buses services from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 53h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at CHF203 but you can travel from only CHF159 by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1845 miles (2970 km) distance in 46h 50m.

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 CHF159
Distance
1845 miles (2970 km)
Average bus duration
53h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF203
Buses per day
3
Fastest bus
46h 50m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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 CHF159

Bus providers: Greyhound from Oakland, CA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound for as low as CHF203. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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 Greyhound Duration
46h 50m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
CHF203
Greyhound frequency
3 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, IL

Things to do in Chicago, IL

Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.

  • Must visit

Art Institute of Chicago

World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science and Industry

Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.

FAQs: Bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oakland, 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as CHF203 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is CHF267 ; 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 Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is 46h 50m to travel the 1845 miles (2970 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 Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Oakland, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, Hayward BART Station . When arriving in Chicago, IL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL, located 3 away from the city centre.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Oakland, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 46h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
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 Oakland, 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Oakland, 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Oakland, 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 Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL

Most Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL buses use the Oakland, West Oakland BART Station to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Oakland
Arrival bus stations in Chicago

Which Oakland, CA station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?

Buses from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL leave from Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Oakland, CA city centre at W Oakland BART, Oakland, CA 94607, USA.
Oakland, West Oakland BART StationW Oakland BART, Oakland, CA 94607, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station from Oakland city centre

Oakland, West Oakland BART Station is 2 km from Oakland city centre. Public transport options include:

SubwayYellow-S, Red-S · 4m · CHF2 · every ~15 min

Oakland, West Oakland BART Station bus station facilities and services

Oakland, West Oakland BART Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. ATMs are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Station is fully accessible with elevators.

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