Cheap bus tickets from Chicago to Denver
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Bus from Chicago to Denver: Journey Information
There are 9 intercity buses per day from Chicago to Denver. Traveling by bus from Chicago to Denver usually takes around 29 hours and 32 minutes, but the fastest Greyhound bus can make the trip in 21 hours and 35 minutes.
- Distance
- 918 mi (1478 km)
- Shortest duration
- 21h 35m
- Cheapest price
- NOK 721.81
- Trips per day
- 1
- Most frequent service
- Greyhound
- Bus lines
- 2
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Chicago to Denver Bus Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Denver?
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Denver.
Bus | Train | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceNOK 1,587.65Cheaper | Avg. PriceNOK 2,432.30 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips9 | Daily Trips2 |
Duration | Duration29h 32m | Duration22h 4mFaster |

There are several bus options that can take you from Chicago to Denver:
See more detailsHow much is a bus ticket from Chicago to Denver?
Bus tickets for a trip from Chicago to Denver cost NOK 1,039.59 on average. Bus 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 bus is often more affordable than flying to Denver. If you book your trip ahead of time using Wanderu, you can easily find bus tickets at or below this price.
Average bus ticket prices from Chicago to Denver by travel date
If you're planning to travel by bus from Chicago to Denver in the next month, the average ticket price is expected to range from NOK 941 to NOK 1,216. The cheapest bus tickets available in the next few weeks are for trips departing on October 21, 2026. If you’re looking to travel to Denver this week, bus tickets are available starting at NOK 1,017.
Average bus ticket prices from Chicago to Denver by month
Taking the bus from Chicago to Denver is usually cheapest in October, when the average ticket price is only NOK 1,235. If you're planning to take the bus from Chicago to Denver during July, keep in mind that bus ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of NOK 1,739. However, booking your trip in advance can help you score a ticket at a better price.
Prices as travel date approaches
Most bus companies charge higher ticket prices closer to the date of travel, so it’s a good idea to buy your bus tickets as early as possible. To find the cheapest bus tickets, book your trip at least 24 days in advance. This way, you can save up to NOK 1,145.90 on your bus ticket compared to booking last-minute.
What bus companies travel from Chicago to Denver?
There are two bus lines that have daily service from Chicago to Denver that you can compare and book on Wanderu. Of these two carriers, Greyhound usually offers more choice, with 5 scheduled trips per day.
| Bus | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus US | 3 | 28h 26m | NOK 1,641.42 |
| Greyhound | 5 | 30h | NOK 1,564.89 |
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 3 trips per day from Chicago to Denver, and the average ticket for this route costs only NOK 1,641.42.






Greyhound is the largest nationwide bus 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 5 bus trips from Chicago to Denver every day, with the average journey taking around 30 hours and 0 minutes to complete. Bus tickets for Greyhound trips to Denver usually start from NOK 721.81.






Frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Chicago to Denver
There are 9 scheduled buses that travel from Chicago to Denver every day, so you have a decent number of options to choose from. However, only one of these is a direct bus. With direct service, you do not have to transfer onto a different bus at any point during your trip. Direct buses 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 Denver; ticket prices start at NOK 1,492.
Trips per day
9
Direct trips
1
The bus takes an average of 29 hours and 32 minutes to cover the 918 miles from Chicago to Denver. However, the fastest bus only takes 21 hours and 35 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.
Distance (mi)
918
Distance (km)
1478
The first bus leaves at 12:40am and the last bus leaves at 11:55pm. To see the times for all buses from Chicago to Denver, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
Earliest bus
12:40am
Latest bus
11:55pm
Thursday is usually the day of the week when buses are busiest. If you are planning to travel on a Thursday, 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 bus travel on this route. If you're looking for some extra space on the bus, traveling mid-week is your best bet.
Most crowded
Thursday
Least crowded
Wednesday
City Information
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.
Denver



Denver is the capital of Colorado, as well as the most populous city in the state. With buildings dating back to the 19th century, Denver is considered one of the most exemplary cities of the Old West era in the United States.
Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it a preferred destination for young travelers seeking the thrill of the slopes during the day and the vibrant nightlife activities only an urban setting can provide. In fact, Denver is among the biggest party cities in the U.S. and one of the craft beer capitals in the country. In addition, thanks to the diverse local crowd, Denver’s restaurant scene offers top-notch options from various world cuisines.
If you’re looking for a more quiet time during your stay, head to one of the many unique museums in town such as the Denver Art Museum, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Arts, or the Molly Brown House Museum. Craving a feast to the eyes and some fresh air? Check out the spectacular Denver Botanic Gardens.
As the biggest city in the Mountain states and a top Colorado destination, Denver is a busy travel hub. Even though the Denver airport is on the city’s outskirts, it is still easily accessible. If you are traveling to Denver by bus or train, you’ll be conveniently dropped off at Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver from where you can easily get anywhere in the city.
Station Information
Where does the bus leave from in Chicago?
Main departure station: Dan Ryan Bus Station
Buses to Denver leave from 3 stations in Chicago.
All bus stations in Chicago:
- Dan Ryan Bus Station
- Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St
- Chicago Train Station Bus Stop
Where does the bus arrive in Denver?
Main arrival station: Union Station - 1700 Wewatta St (Buses)
Denver’s Union Station first opened in 1881, and houses some of the city’s best shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. There is even a seasonal farmers market at the station! But first and foremost, Union Station is the primary transport hub for Denver. The station is served by Amtrak trains, and intercity buses operated by Greyhound, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines and Express Arrow. From Union Station, travelers can also easily access Denver International Airport on the A Line commuter rail.
All bus stations in Denver:
- Union Station - 1700 Wewatta St (Buses)
Need a return trip from Denver to Chicago?
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