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The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Feb 26
Cheapest price
$116
Average price
$158
Fastest journey
17 h 25 m
Average duration
19 h 45 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
956 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL will cost around $158 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $116.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Washington, DC for Chicago, IL on Thu, Feb 26, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Feb 26 the direct buses cover the 956 km distance in an average of 19 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 17 h 25 m .
On Thu, Feb 26 the slowest buses will take 22 h 5 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.
05:35PM17h25
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station10:00AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1161One-way
0 transfers
01:50AM19h15
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station08:05PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1241One-way
0 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined10:55AM22h05
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station08:00AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$1961One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined+
FlixBus10:55AM20h15
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station06:10AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1981One-way
2 transfers
05:35PM17h25
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station10:00AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1161One-way
0 transfers
01:50AM19h15
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station08:05PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1241One-way
0 transfers
undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:55AM20h15
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station06:10AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$1981One-way
2 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined10:55AM22h05
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station08:00AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$1961One-way
3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $76. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 25m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $76, and a flight costs an average of $51.
Distance: 594 miles (956 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$128 Average price Cheapest | $199 Average price | $311 Average price |
19h 6m Average total duration 18h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 27m Average total duration 18h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 25m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
1.0 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.9 - 5.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Washington, DC to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 19h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 22h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $196 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 20h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $198 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 19h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 17h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 17h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $109 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Chicago, IL buses for today, Wednesday, February 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 8:24 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 3:55 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 20h15 | 12:10 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 3:55 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 22h05 | 2:00 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 transfers | |
| 10:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 17h25 | 4:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, February 26 | |||||
| 6:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 19h15 | 2:05 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
- 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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL run on average 7 times per day, taking around 18h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $76 (€60) but you can travel from only $51 (€41) by flight.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 594 miles (956 km) distance in 17h 25m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $51 (€41)
Distance 594 miles (956 km) |
Average bus duration 18h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $76 (€60) |
Buses per day 7 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 17h 25m |
First bus 01:00 |
Last bus 23:55 |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $51 (€41)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Washington, DC to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $51 (€41). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17h 35m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€70)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
17h 25m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€60)
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.
FAQs: Bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $76 (€60) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to Chicago, IL is $128 (€102) ; 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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL is 17h 25m to travel the 594 miles (956 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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Washington, DC and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Washington, DC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 17h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Washington, DC 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
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 Washington, DC to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL
Washington
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Washington is Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station for your trip from Washington to Chicago.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:00
Distance to city center
2 km
Car connection
Massachusetts Ave NEWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- McDonald's (in the station)
- Shake Shack (in the station)
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
- Bus: 96, 97, D6 Metro: Red Train: Amtrak, MARC, VRE
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip to Chicago from Washington.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Washington, DC
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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