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Cheap bus tickets from Chicago to Lincoln

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Chicago to Lincoln Bus Schedule

Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Lincoln?

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Lincoln.

Bus
Train
Avg. Price
Avg. Price
$102.03
Avg. Price
$122.08
Daily Trips
Daily Trips
1
Daily Trips
2
Duration
Duration
21h 12m
Duration
13h 46m

Bus from Chicago to Lincoln: Journey Information

There are 2 intercity buses per day from Chicago to Lincoln. Traveling by bus from Chicago to Lincoln usually takes around 20 hours and 58 minutes, but the fastest FlixBus US bus can make the trip in 13 hours and 50 minutes.

Distance475 mi (764 km)
Shortest duration13h 50m
Cheapest price$95.97
Most frequent serviceFlixBus US
Bus lines1

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How much is a bus ticket from Chicago to Lincoln?

Bus tickets for a trip from Chicago to Lincoln cost $95.97 on average. While it’s a bit pricey for a bus ticket, it’s still significantly more cost-effective than flying. If you book your trip ahead of time using Wanderu, you can easily find bus tickets at or below this price.

Monthly avg. prices

$200$160$120$80$40DJFMAMJJASON
Taking the bus from Chicago to Lincoln is usually cheapest in May, when the average ticket price is only $137. If you're planning to take the bus from Chicago to Lincoln during November, keep in mind that bus ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $176. However, booking your trip in advance can help you score a ticket at a better price.

What bus companies travel from Chicago to Lincoln?

There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Chicago to Lincoln. FlixBus US is the one bus line that serves this route. Although it's the sole option, there are a couple of different scheduled times to choose from.

BusDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
FlixBus US220h 58m$106.25
  • 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 2 trips per day from Chicago to Lincoln, and the average ticket for this route costs only .

Frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Chicago to Lincoln

The bus takes an average of 20 hours and 58 minutes to cover the 475 miles from Chicago to Lincoln. However, the fastest bus only takes 13 hours and 50 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.

Because many passengers travel from Chicago to Lincoln at the beginning of the work week, Monday is usually the busiest day for buses. If you are planning to travel on a Monday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.

On the other hand, Sunday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you are looking for less crowded buses to Lincoln, book your ticket for the last day of the week.

The first bus leaves at 5:00am and the last bus leaves at 11:00pm. To see the times for all buses from Chicago to Lincoln, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.

There are usually only 2 buses per day from Chicago to Lincoln. However, neither bus offers direct service, so you will have to get off your original vehicle to transfer buses during the trip.

Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Chicago to Lincoln; ticket prices start at $84.00.

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.

Lincoln

Lincoln, NE, US - LNK-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska and is known as Nebraska's political hub, culture center, and foodie haven. It's home to the Nebraska State Capitol, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and other historical attractions.

The Sunken Gardens is a top place to visit for outdoor fun, with lily ponds, themed gardens, and sculptures. Young families will enjoy visiting the Lincoln Children's Zoo, offering a zoo train and up-close animal encounters. On the University of Nebraska Campus, art lovers can check the Sheldon Museum of Art for its notable sculpture garden and American art collection.

As the capital of Nebraska, Lincoln is bustling with nightlife and many fun things to do. You can participate in different activities, from the Lincoln Escape Room and Zoo Bar to the Bourbon Theater and James Arthur Vineyards. The craft beer scene in Lincoln is bustling with taprooms, breweries, and bars. Zipline Brewing Co is one of the city's most popular craft artisan lagers and ales.

Amtrak provides train service to the city, while Jefferson Lines and Burlington Trailways offer buses. StarTran provides citywide transportation to those in Lincoln.

Station Information

Where does the bus leave from in Chicago?

Main departure station: Dan Ryan Bus Station

Most buses depart from the main station in Chicago.

All bus stations in Chicago:

  • Dan Ryan Bus Station

Where does the bus arrive in Lincoln?

Main arrival station: 5250 Superior St

All buses from Chicago arrive at one main station in Lincoln.

All bus stations in Lincoln:

  • 5250 Superior St

Get around town with Moovit

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