Chicago to Lansing bus

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Lansing is popularly known as the Heart of Michigan, particularly heartwarming since it's the state capital. As a destination, Lansing stands out for its numerous quaint surroundings, alfresco dining, and lots of entertaining things to do.

Families with kids should check out the Impression 5 Science Center and Michigan Historical Museum. These spots will give your kids both fun and education, as they learn about science and history, respectively.

If you're traveling with a creative group, the recommended spots to visit are the art galleries in the area; these include the Absolute Gallery, Art Path, and Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University.

When you're done sightseeing and are ready to wind down, plan to get some drinks downtown. Lansing's Makers and Shakers Adult Beverage Trail guides you to some of the city's top spots to taste so much more than the local beers. But since that activity is off-limits to kids, families might prefer restaurants like 517 BBQ, American Bistro, and Arcadia Smokehouse.

Lansing is well-connected by plane, train, and bus routes. The nearest airport, Capital Region International Airport, is only a few miles from the city center. Amtrak's Blue Water line stops in Lansing on its way from Chicago to Port Huron. And bus companies including Greyhound, Indian Trails, and Jefferson Lines offer over a hundred routes in and out of Lansing, making your travels a snap.