Cheap bus tickets from Cleveland to Chicago
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Bus from Cleveland to Chicago: Journey Information
There are 2 intercity buses per day from Cleveland to Chicago. Traveling by bus from Cleveland to Chicago usually takes around 9 hours and 32 minutes, but the fastest FlixBus US bus can make the trip in 6 hours and 55 minutes.
| Distance | 307 mi (495 km) |
| Shortest duration | 6h 55m |
| Cheapest price | $47.97 |
| Trips per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | FlixBus US |
| Bus lines | 1 |
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Cleveland to Chicago Bus Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Cleveland to Chicago?
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Cleveland to Chicago.
Bus | Train | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$77.61Cheaper | Avg. Price$123.15 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips3 |
Duration | Duration9h 32m | Duration7h 2mFaster |

Bus Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for buses from Cleveland to Chicago (Based on 4 ratings and reviews)
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There are several bus options that can take you from Cleveland to Chicago:
See more detailsHow much is a bus ticket from Cleveland to Chicago?
Bus tickets for a trip from Cleveland to Chicago cost $60.03 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.
Average bus ticket prices from Cleveland to Chicago by travel date
If you're planning to travel by bus from Cleveland to Chicago in the next month, the average ticket price is expected to range from $46 to $73. The cheapest bus tickets available in the next few weeks are for trips departing on September 2, 2026. If you’re looking to travel to Chicago this week, bus tickets are available starting at $50.
Average bus ticket prices from Cleveland to Chicago by month
Taking the bus from Cleveland to Chicago is usually cheapest in September, when the average ticket price is only $55. If you're planning to take the bus from Cleveland to Chicago during December, keep in mind that bus ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $74. 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 29 days in advance. This way, you can save up to $39.96 on your bus ticket compared to booking last-minute.
What bus companies travel from Cleveland to Chicago?
There are multiple buses that travel from Cleveland to Chicago, including FlixBus US. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular bus lines:
| BUS | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus US | 2 | 9h 32m | $77.61 |
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 Cleveland to Chicago, and the average ticket for this route costs only $77.61.






Frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Cleveland to Chicago
The distance from Cleveland to Chicago is about 343 miles. Several bus carriers make this trip, including Greyhound, Barons Bus Lines and Megabus. Depending on which bus line you choose, it will take between 6 and 10 hours to reach Chicago.
On average, you can expect to pay $29.29 for a Megabus ticket from Cleveland to Chicago. If you’re the first person to purchase a Megabus ticket for your trip, you’ll pay just $1.
According to the 2018 census, the city of Cleveland has a population of 383,793. The Cleveland metro area (usually called Greater Cleveland) has a population of 2,057,009. That number includes the city’s population and the surrounding area.
There are usually only 2 buses per day from Cleveland to Chicago. One bus is a direct connection, meaning that you can stay on the same vehicle for the entire trip, without having to transfer onto a connecting bus at any point. Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Cleveland to Chicago; ticket prices start at $73.
TRIPS PER DAY
2
DIRECT TRIPS
1
The bus takes an average of 9 hours and 32 minutes to cover the 307 miles from Cleveland to Chicago. However, the fastest bus only takes 6 hours and 55 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)
307
DISTANCE (KM)
495
The first bus leaves at 7:30am and the last bus leaves at 7:30am. To see the times for all buses from Cleveland to Chicago, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
EARLIEST BUS
7:30am
LATEST BUS
7:30am
Sunday tends to be the busiest day for buses, as many passengers take the bus to Chicago at the end of the week. If you are planning to travel on a Sunday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out. On the other hand, Tuesday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Tuesday ticket is the way to go.
MOST CROWDED
Sunday
LEAST CROWDED
Tuesday
City Information
Cleveland



An industrial powerhouse in the past eras, Cleveland offers to the world more than just LeBron James and Halle Berry. Unlike most other big cities, Cleveland still retains its quaint small-town feel, especially as you wander around the Cleveland Metroparks, a system of 21,000 acres of pure nature. For nature lovers, the Cleveland Botanical Garden provides a treasure trove of botanical knowledge and rare plant species. Another must-not-miss spot is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which features exhibitions on the greatest legends such as Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, etc.
For foodies, Cleveland truly is a mecca. The city boasts an array of top chefs and high-class establishments that can bring you an unforgettable experience. For authentic American classics, Sylman’s Deli has everything you need. If you are looking for a more diverse option, head to Momocho for some mouth-watering Mexican indulgences.
Cleveland’s main bus station is located just behind the Playhouse Square Parking Garage in the Theater District. The local Amtrak train station is also located downtown not too far from the bus station. The principal airport in the city is the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, which sits 9 miles southwest of Downtown and is located next to the Glenn Research Center.
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 Cleveland?
Main departure station: E. 12th between Rockwell and St. Clair
Most buses depart from the main station in Cleveland.
All bus stations in Cleveland:
- E. 12th between Rockwell and St. Clair
Where does the bus arrive in Chicago?
Main arrival station: Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St

These are the two stations where buses may stop when they arrive in Chicago.
All bus stations in Chicago:
- Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St
- Dan Ryan Bus Station
Need a return trip from Chicago to Cleveland?
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