- 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.
Cheapest price
$142
Average price
$142
Fastest journey
1 d 20 m
Average duration
1 d 20 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
1593 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Vail, CO 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 Vail, CO to Chicago, IL will cost around $142 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.
Of the 1 buses that leave Vail, CO for Chicago, IL on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 1593 km distance in an average of 1 d 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 20 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 1 d 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.


Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Vail, CO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $142. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 24h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $142, and a bus costs an average of $142.
Distance: 989 miles (1593 km)
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$142 Average price Cheapest | $221 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
24h 50m Average total duration Fastest 24h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
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 09:05PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 24h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $142 |
Compare 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.
Buses from Vail, CO to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 24h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $142 (€116) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 989 miles (1593 km) distance in 24h 20m.
Distance 989 miles (1593 km) |
Average bus duration 24h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $142 (€116) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 24h 20m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
One of the premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
Major natural history museum famous for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and extensive science collections that appeal to both adults and children.
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park featuring a submarine, space exhibits, engineering displays, and immersive family-friendly experiences.
The city’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, events, and major skyline views that define modern Chicago.
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, hotels, and frequent first-time visitor photo stops.
Highly popular waterfront promenade with architecture views, bridges, and one of the best urban walks in the city.
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.
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.
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.
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is manageable, but hotels, attractions, and downtown dining can be pricey.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Vail, CO 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.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need