Cheap coach tickets from Chicago to Philadelphia

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Coach from Chicago to Philadelphia: Journey Information

There are 14 intercity coaches per day from Chicago to Philadelphia. Travelling by coach from Chicago to Philadelphia usually takes around 21 hours and 17 minutes, but the fastest Greyhound coach can make the trip in 17 hours and 30 minutes.

Distance
664 mi (1068 km)
Shortest duration
17h 30m
Cheapest price
US$83.97
Trips per day
14
Most frequent service
Greyhound
Coach lines
2

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Chicago to Philadelphia Coach Timetable

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How much is a coach ticket from Chicago to Philadelphia?

Coach tickets for a trip from Chicago to Philadelphia cost about US$126 when you book at the cheapest time, 24 days ahead. Coach tickets on this route can be a bit expensive due to the length of the trip. But even with a higher price tag, taking the coach is often more affordable than flying to Philadelphia. If you book your trip ahead of time using Wanderu, you can easily find coach tickets at or below this price.

Average coach ticket prices from Chicago to Philadelphia by travel date

US$210US$140US$70NovNov

If you're planning to travel by coach from Chicago to Philadelphia in the next month, the average ticket price is expected to range from US$98 to US$199. The cheapest coach tickets available in the next few weeks are for trips departing on 7 December 2026. If you’re looking to travel to Philadelphia this week, coach tickets are available starting at US$113.

Average coach ticket prices from Chicago to Philadelphia by month

US$200US$160US$120US$80US$40JFMAMJJASOND

Taking the coach from Chicago to Philadelphia is usually cheapest in September, when the average ticket price is only US$127. If you're planning to take the coach from Chicago to Philadelphia during December, keep in mind that coach ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$184. However, booking your trip in advance can help you score a ticket at a better price.

Prices as travel date approaches

US$225US$180US$135US$90US$4501020

Most coach companies charge higher ticket prices closer to the date of travel, so it’s a good idea to buy your coach tickets as early as possible. To find the cheapest coach tickets, book your trip at least 24 days in advance. This way, you can save up to US$84.89 on your coach ticket compared to booking last-minute.

What coach companies travel from Chicago to Philadelphia?

There are two coach lines that have daily service from Chicago to Philadelphia that you can compare and book on Wanderu. Of these two carriers, Greyhound usually offers more choice, with 7 scheduled trips per day.

CoachDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
FlixBus US720h 53mUS$163.39
Greyhound721h 46mUS$163.18
  • FlixBus US is the American branch of German coach company FlixBus, known for providing sustainable, affordable, and modern coach travel. The company offers cheap coach tickets to popular urban destinations throughout the United States. FlixBus US coaches include many amenities, including comfortable seats, free WiFi, power sockets at every seat, and an online portal for free entertainment. On average, FlixBus US operates 7 trips per day from Chicago to Philadelphia, and the average ticket for this route costs only US$163.39.

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  • Greyhound is the largest nationwide coach carrier in the United States, offering cheap, safe and reliable service across the country. Greyhound has become a household name, serving over 16 million passengers per year with daily trips to over 2,400 destinations. Greyhound performs about 7 coach trips from Chicago to Philadelphia every day, with the average journey taking around 21 hours and 46 minutes to complete. Coach tickets for Greyhound trips to Philadelphia usually start from US$83.97.

    Passengers boarding a Greyhound with their cheap bus tickets, ready for a comfortable and budget-friendly trip - WanderuA Greyhound bus parked, waiting for passengers with cheap bus tickets ready to travel - WanderuComfortable seating inside a Greyhound, perfect for those traveling with cheap bus tickets who want to make the most of their journey - WanderuA passenger using the power outlets available on Greyhound to access their affordable bus ticket digitally - WanderuA passenger uses Greyhound's onboard wifi to enjoy their intercity bus trip - WanderuA bus awaits passengers who have bought cheap Greyhound tickets - Wanderu

Frequently asked questions about travelling by coach from Chicago to Philadelphia

There are 14 scheduled coaches that travel from Chicago to Philadelphia every day, so you have a decent number of options to choose from. However, only one of these is a direct coach. With direct service, you do not have to transfer onto a different coach at any point during your trip. Direct coaches also tend to be significantly faster, which is worth bearing in mind as you compare the available options. Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Chicago to Philadelphia; ticket prices start at US$112.

Trips per day

14

Direct trips

1

The coach takes an average of 21 hours and 17 minutes to cover the 664 miles from Chicago to Philadelphia. However, the fastest coach only takes 17 hours and 30 minutes. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. Keep in mind that your actual coach may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.

Distance (mi)

664

Distance (km)

1068

The first coach leaves at 4:45 and the last coach leaves at 23:35. To see the times for all coaches from Chicago to Philadelphia, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.

Earliest coach

4:45am

Latest coach

11:35pm

Friday is the busiest travel day for coaches as people head from Chicago to Philadelphia for the weekend. If you are planning to travel on a Friday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out. On the other hand, Wednesday is typically the least busy day for coach travel on this route. If you're looking for some extra space on the coach, travelling mid-week is your best bet.

Most crowded

Friday

Least crowded

Wednesday

City Information

Chicago

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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 holiday 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 neighbourhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theatre, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transport 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 coach and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Philadelphia

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We may feel a little bit more than just brotherly love for Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and culture. Where else can you channel your inner Rocky Balboa on his epic run, and later enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak as a reward?

Philadelphia’s affordability (especially compared to other East Coast cities) is just one of many reasons it is among Wanderu’s best destinations for college students. Another reason is how much there is to do! Early American history takes precedence at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while museums abound on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, sometimes called the most artistic mile in the city. Head to Reading Terminal Market to fuel up for a night hitting the bars, clubs, and live music joints that line South Street.

Philadelphia is a major hub for both Greyhound and Amtrak, and its 30th Street Station is one of the busiest stations in the country. The plentitude of ground travel and the nearby Philadelphia International Airport make this exciting city very easily accessible, even on a budget.

Station Information

Where does the coach leave from in Chicago?

Main departure station: Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St

Chicago Greyhound Bus Station - CHIGLI3-0

Coaches to Philadelphia leave from 3 stations in Chicago.

All coach stations in Chicago:

  • Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St
  • Dan Ryan Bus Station
  • Chicago Train Station Bus Stop

Where does the coach arrive in Philadelphia?

Main arrival station: Philadelphia (Bus Terminal)

These are the two stations where coaches may stop when they arrive in Philadelphia.

Coach stations in Philadelphia:

  • Philadelphia (Bus Terminal)
  • Philadelphia Bus Terminal

Need a return trip from Philadelphia to Chicago?

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