- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price
$122
Average price
$134
Fastest journey
19 h 10 m
Average duration
20 h 41 m
Buses per day
20
Distance
1039 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Ottawa, ON 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 Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL will cost around $134 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $122.
It's difficult to get from Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
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FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $77. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 25m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $77, and a train costs an average of $349.
Distance: 645 miles (1039 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$101 Average price Cheapest | $358 Average price | $342 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
20h 3m Average total duration 19h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 40h 39m Average total duration 40h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 25m Average total duration Fastest 6h 25m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 11h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $242 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL costing on average $342.
A bus is $257 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL costing on average $358.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 19h 33m.
Train takes on average 40h 9m.
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 FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 32h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25AM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 21h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 23h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $118 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40AM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 22h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $206 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:25AM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 22h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $203 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 22h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $240 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 23h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 22h45 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 22h25 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 25h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $128 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 24h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $140 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 22h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 23h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $146 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 22h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $144 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 21h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 20h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 27h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 24h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $176 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 19h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $123 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 19h10 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $125 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 22h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $146 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 22h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $146 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 19h20 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $154 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 19h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $250 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 23h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 23h30 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 34h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 33h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 33h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 22h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $122 |
The table below shows live departures for Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL buses for today, Thursday, August 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 1:00 AM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 32h00 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 1:00 AM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 21h25 | 9:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 1:25 AM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 21h00 | 9:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 1:25 AM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 31h35 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 7:25 AM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 23h00 | 5:25 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+![]() | 7:40 AM Ottawa, Gloucester Centre, ON | 22h45 | 5:25 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 8:00 AM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 22h25 | 5:25 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 9:40 AM Ottawa, Gloucester Centre, ON | 25h20 | 10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 11:00 AM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 24h00 | 10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:30 PM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 19h45 | 11:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:05 PM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 19h10 | 11:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 10:55 PM Ottawa, Gloucester Centre, ON | 23h30 | 9:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 10:55 PM Ottawa, Gloucester Centre, ON | 34h05 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 11:15 PM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 33h45 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 11:15 PM Ottawa, VIA Rail, ON | 23h10 | 9:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 11:40 PM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 22h45 | 9:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 11:40 PM Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre), ON | 33h20 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL run on average 10 times per day, taking around 19h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $77 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 645 miles (1039 km) distance in 19h 20m.
Distance 645 miles (1039 km) |
Average bus duration 19h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 19h 20m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ottawa, ON 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.

Most Ottawa, ON to Chicago, IL buses use the Ottawa, VIA Rail to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Ottawa, ON and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Ottawa, VIA Rail is 3 km from Ottawa city centre. Public transport options include:
Ottawa, VIA Rail has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Ottawa, VIA Rail. ATMs are available at Ottawa, VIA Rail.
Ticket office support is available at Ottawa, VIA Rail.
Available at Ottawa, VIA Rail: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ottawa, VIA Rail: Ramp access available.
Ottawa, Gloucester Centre is 7 km from Ottawa city centre. Public transport options include:
Ottawa, Gloucester Centre has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Various restaurants available within the shopping center.
Wi-Fi is available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre. ATMs are aTM services available in the shopping center.
Ticket office support is available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre.
Available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ottawa, Gloucester Centre: Facility is wheelchair accessible.
Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre) is 11 km from Ottawa city centre. Public transport options include:
Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options inside the shopping centre.
Wireless internet available in the shopping centre. ATMs are aTMs available within the shopping centre.
Ticket office support is available at Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre).
Available at Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ottawa, Hudson's Bay (Bayshore Shopping Centre): Shopping centre has wheelchair accessible entrances.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need