- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portage, MI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $36 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 3m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, while a flight costs an average of $433.
Distance: 108 miles (175 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$36 Average price Cheapest | $80 Average price | $433 Average price | $30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 34m Average total duration 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 3m Average total duration Fastest 2h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration 1h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Portage, MI to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $44 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portage, MI to Chicago, IL costing on average $80.
A bus is $397 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Portage, MI to Chicago, IL costing on average $433.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 33m.
Bus takes on average 3h 4m.
Tickets start at around $36 compared to roughly $30 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.55. The journey takes 3h 4m versus 2h 20m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $27 |
Compare 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 Portage, MI to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $26 if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:25, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 108 miles (175 km) distance in 2h 55m.
Distance 108 miles (175 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 2h 55m |
First bus 3:25 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 2 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 Portage, MI 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 Portage, MI to Chicago, IL buses use the Kalamazoo, Transit Center to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Portage, MI and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
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.
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