- 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 bus as it is the most popular option from Tuscaloosa, AL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $218. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $218, and a flight costs an average of $449.
Distance: 597 miles (961 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$218 Average price Cheapest | $348 Average price | $449 Average price | $137 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
21h 40m Average total duration 21h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 39h 43m Average total duration 39h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Tuscaloosa, AL to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $129 (€105) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Tuscaloosa, AL to Chicago, IL costing on average $348 (€283).
A bus is $230 (€188) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Tuscaloosa, AL to Chicago, IL costing on average $449 (€366).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 21h 10m.
Train takes on average 39h 13m.
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 Greyhound | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 21h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $218 |
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 Tuscaloosa, AL to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 21h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $218 (€178) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 597 miles (961 km) distance in 21h 35m.
Distance 597 miles (961 km) |
Average bus duration 21h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $218 (€178) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 21h 35m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 Tuscaloosa, AL 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 Tuscaloosa, AL to Chicago, IL buses use the Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Tuscaloosa, AL and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station) is 3 km from Tuscaloosa city centre. Public transport options include:
Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station). ATMs are available at Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station).
Ticket office support is available at Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station).
Available at Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Tuscaloosa, Greensboro Ave (Bus Station): Wheelchair accessible.
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.
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