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Journey Information
There are 20 intercity buses per day from Austin to Chicago. Traveling by bus from Austin to Chicago usually takes around 31 hours and 32 minutes, but the fastest Tornado Bus bus can make the trip in 21 hours and 20.5 minutes.
| Distance | 980 mi (1576 km) |
| Shortest duration | 21h 21m |
| Cheapest price | US$90.46 |
| Trips per day | 5 |
| Most frequent service | FlixBus US |
| Bus lines | 2 |
How much is a bus ticket from Austin to Chicago?
US$95.05 is the average price of a bus ticket from Austin to Chicago. While it’s on the pricier side for a bus ticket, taking the bus is still a cheaper alternative to flying. It’s easy to find a bus ticket at this price or lower when you use Wanderu to book your trip online in advance of your travel date.
Monthly average prices
The lowest bus ticket prices on this route can usually be found in April. That’s when the average price of a bus ticket is expected to be just US$169 – the lowest of the year.
Alternatively, if you plan to travel from Austin to Chicago in November, expect to spend more on your bus trip, as the average ticket price may surge to US$258 at that time of year. However, if you book your trip ahead of time, you can still score a ticket at a lower price.
Prices as travel date approaches
The easiest way to save money on bus tickets is by booking in advance! Many carriers increase prices as the travel date approaches, so it's always a good idea to buy your tickets as early as possible. Book at least 29 days in advance to save US$251.17 or more on your ticket, compared to booking at the last minute.
What bus companies travel from Austin to Chicago?
There are two bus lines that have daily service from Austin to Chicago that you can compare and book on Wanderu. Of these two carriers, FlixBus US usually offers more choice, with 17 scheduled trips per day.
| Bus | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus US | 17 | 1d 8h 32m | US$228.84 |
| Tornado Bus | 5 | 22h 27m | US$256.02 |
FlixBus US is the American branch of German bus company FlixBus, known for providing sustainable, affordable, and modern bus travel. The company offers cheap bus tickets to popular urban destinations throughout the United States. FlixBus US buses include many amenities, including comfortable seats, free WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and an online portal for free entertainment. On average, FlixBus US operates 17 trips per day from Austin to Chicago, and the average ticket for this route costs only .
Frequently Asked Questions
The bus takes an average of 31 hours and 32 minutes to cover the 1576 kilometers from Austin to Chicago. However, the fastest bus only takes 21 hours and 20.5 minutes. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.
"Tuesday is usually the day of the week when buses are busiest. If you are planning to travel on a Tuesday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.
On the other hand, Saturday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Saturday ticket is the way to go."
The first bus leaves at 3:00am and the last bus leaves at 10:00pm. To see the times for all buses from Austin to Chicago, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
There are 20 scheduled buses that travel from Austin to Chicago every day, so you have a decent number of options to choose from. This includes 5 direct buses, where you can stay on the same bus without having to transfer to a connecting bus at any point during your trip.
Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Austin to Chicago; ticket prices start at US$117.00.
City Information
Austin
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Austin is the capital of the Lone Star State and one of the best vacation destinations in Texas. Known as Texas’s “weird” city, Austin is famous for being the southern mecca for the arts. In addition to being a hot spot for both emerging and established artists from Texas and the surrounding states, Austin is well known for its eclectic live music scene. In addition, the University of Texas’ main campus is located in Austin, which makes the city a popular destination for young people from all over the world, keeping it vibrant at all times. It’s no surprise that it ranks among the top party cities in the U.S.
While you’re in town, make sure to stop by the hip South Congress neighborhood to shop at the trendy boutiques and grab some grub at the authentically Austin restaurants. Since Austin is one of the best craft beer cities in the country, you won’t regret checking out some of the local breweries too. After that, head over to Lady Bird Lake and rent a kayak for a relaxing paddling session on the water, or simply go for a walk on the picturesque Hike & Bike Trail. Finally, spend the night bar hopping along the pedestrian-only Sixth Street.
While the Austin airport is located on the outskirts of the city, the main train station is right in the heart of downtown. Similarly, the two bus stations that serve Austin are located close to the city center, making ground transportation the more convenient way to travel in and out of town.
Chicago
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.
Station Information
Where does the bus leave from in Austin?
Image credit: leyla.a
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Eastside Bus Plz
Travelers to and from the capital of Texas will likely stop through the bus station at 916 E Koenig Lane. Located in Austin’s quaint North Loop neighborhood, and with close proximity to several main highways, this station serves bus trips from both Greyhound and Jefferson Lines. The station has a comfortable seating area inside, along with restrooms and vending machines for on-the-go snacks. Takeout restaurants, coffeeshops, and a range of stores surround the station for those seeking heartier food options before or after their bus trip.
All bus stations in Austin:
Eastside Bus Plz
South Congress - 710 E Ben White Blvd.
Downtown Austin
711 E Ben White Blvd
Where does the bus arrive in Chicago?
Main arrival station: Dan Ryan Bus Station
Buses arrive in Chicago at 4 stations, depending on which bus line you are traveling with.
Bus stations in Chicago:
Dan Ryan Bus Station
Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St
Chicago Train Station Bus Stop
3501 S California Ave
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