- 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 Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$581
Average price
$581
Fastest journey
2 d 2 h 20 m
Average duration
2 d 2 h 20 m
Buses per day
1
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 $581 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $581.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 2 times.
2:05 PM50h20Oakland, CA4:25 PMChicago, IL$5811One-way2 transfers
- 2:05 PM50h20Oakland, CA4:25 PMChicago, IL$5811One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 prices starting from $248. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 21h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $248, and a train costs an average of $288.
Distance: 1845 miles (2970 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$331 Average price Cheapest | $501 Average price | $355 Average price |
57h 29m Average total duration 56h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 52h 53m Average total duration 52h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 24h 49m Average total duration Fastest 21h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $331 (€271).
This is compared to other travel options from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $24 (€20) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $355 (€291).
A bus is $170 (€139) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $501 (€410).
The fastest way to travel from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 21h 49m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 52h 23m.
Bus takes on average 56h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 63h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $522 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 50h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $200 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 48h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $248 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 63h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $196 |
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, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 2:05 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 63h55 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
| · · | 2:05 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 48h20 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
· + FlixBus | 11:05 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 63h00 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| · · · | 11:05 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 78h55 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 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, bus, or flight
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.
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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, bus and flight 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, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 6 times per day, taking around 56h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $248 (€203) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1845 miles (2970 km) distance in 48h 20m.
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
Distance 1845 miles (2970 km) |
Average bus duration 56h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $248 (€203) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 48h 20m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
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 $248 (€203). 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 Duration
48h 20m
Cheapest Price
$248 (€203)
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 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $248 (€203) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is $331 (€271) ; 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 48h 20m 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 6 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.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Oakland, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 48h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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, Union Station (Amtrak) station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. 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
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station from Oakland city centre
SubwayYellow-S, Red-S · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Oakland, CA
More options for your journey from Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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