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Find Chicago to Washington bus tickets

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Washington, United States of America

Why Choose Bus from Chicago to Washington

Traveling from Chicago to Washington offers a range of transportation options, making it crucial to choose the right one for a comfortable journey. The decision can greatly affect your travel experience, especially with the variety of routes available.

💰 Cost-Effective Travel

pros
  • Bus fares range from $85 to $180, making it a budget-friendly option compared to airfare.
  • No hidden fees generally associated with checked luggage like some airlines charge.
cons
  • Traveling by bus might take longer than flying, as the journey lasts approximately 19 hours and 10 minutes.

🛎️ Scenic Views and Comfort

pros
  • The bus route from Chicago to Washington provides a scenic view of the Midwest and the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Modern buses often come with amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating.
cons
  • While comfortable, bus seating may not provide as much legroom compared to some train services.

⭐ Convenient Departure and Arrival Locations

pros
  • Buses depart from Chicago Bus Station and arrive directly at Washington Union Station, a central hub that’s easily accessible.
  • Union Station in Washington offers convenient connections to local transit, making it easier to reach your final destination.
cons
  • Unlike airports which may have more extensive food and shopping options, bus stations may not provide as many amenities.

highlights:

The long travel time might not be suitable for those seeking a quick trip.

Affordable pricing offers a range for budget-conscious travelers.

Comfortable ride with amenities enhances travel enjoyment over a long duration.

Direct access to city centers simplifies the journey without extra transfers.

Bus Options from Chicago to Washington

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
DirectGreyhound USAChicago Bus Station, ChicagoWashington Union Station, Washington08:00, 20:0003:10, 23:10Twice daily19h 10m
$
85-180
ConnectingMegabusChicago Bus Station, ChicagoWashington Union Station, Washington07:30, 12:3005:30, 22:30Every 5 hours21h
$
70-150
Philadelphia
DirectFlixBusChicago Bus Station, ChicagoWashington Union Station, Washington10:00, 19:4505:00, 21:55Once daily19h
$
100-160

Comparison of Bus Operators from Chicago to Washington

Traveling by bus from Chicago to Washington is a popular choice for many travelers due to its affordability and the scenic views along the route. With several bus operators servicing this route, comparing their offerings is crucial to ensure you select a provider that meets your specific needs in terms of pricing, amenities, and service quality.

CriteriaGreyhound USAMegabus
Price Range$ 85 - $ 180$ 85 - $ 180
pricing policies
refund policyNon-refundable unless canceled 24 hours in advance.No refunds available; however, changes are allowed with a fee.
Ticket ChangesTicket changes allowed for a fee of $20 up to 1 hour before departure.Changes allowed for free if done 2 hours before departure.
discounts10% discount for students and seniors.Discounts available for large groups and students.
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Air conditioning, Comfortable seating, On-board restrooms, Power outletsFree Wi-Fi, On-board entertainment, Restroom facilities, Power outlets, Reserved seating options
baggage allowance
free allowanceOne carry-on bag and one checked bag up to 50 lbs free of charge.One carry-on bag and one checked bag up to 50 lbs included.
Additional Fees$15 for additional checked bags, $25 for oversized bags.Extra checked bags are charged $10 each.
accessibilityWheelchair accessible buses are available, with designated seating and accessible restrooms.Buses equipped with ramps and designated seating available for passengers with reduced mobility.

When choosing a bus operator from Chicago to Washington, consider your budget, desired amenities, and accessibility requirements. Greyhound USA generally offers more flexibility with ticket changes and a variety of amenities, while Megabus provides attractive group discounts and on-board entertainment. Overall, both operators offer a reliable service, so your choice should depend on your specific travel preferences.

Bus Stops and Stations from Chicago to Washington

Knowing about bus stops and stations is crucial for a seamless travel experience between Chicago and Washington.

Main Bus Stations in Chicago

Chicago Union Station

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Union Station is easily accessible and close to major attractions like the Willis Tower and Millennium Park.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: CTA buses, Metra trains, and the 'L' train
  • Taxi and rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) available outside the station
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles (short-term and long-term options)
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time to navigate through security and find your bus.
  • Be aware of security procedures; bags may be checked randomly.
  • Try to avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) when the station is most crowded.
  • Explore nearby amenities such as shops and restaurants if you have time to spare.

Main Bus Stations in Washington

Washington, D.C. Union Station

Situated near Capitol Hill and the National Mall, Union Station is a vital hub with easy access to iconic landmarks.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (various restaurants and cafés)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: Metro subway (Red Line, Blue Line) and Metro bus services
  • Taxi and rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) readily available
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles (limited daily parking)
  • Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before leaving the bus to navigate through the station.
  • Be mindful of the bustling environment, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Peak hours tend to be between 8-9 AM as commuters head into the city.
  • Take advantage of local shops and eateries if you arrive early.

En Route Stops

Indianapolis, IN

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Seating area
  • Nearby convenience store
  • Vending machine

Columbus, OH

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restroom access
  • Coffee shop
  • Waiting area

Pittsburgh, PA

Duration: 25m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Small café
  • Seating area for passengers

Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations in both Chicago and Washington, along with the route's key stops, can greatly enhance your travel experience and ensure a smooth journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Pack for Comfort

    Bring a travel pillow and blanket for the long journey from Chicago to Washington. With hours on the road, these essentials will help you catch some sleep and arrive refreshed.

  • 📍 Explore Unique Stops

    Plan for potential scenic stops along the route, such as a brief break in Columbus, Ohio, where you can explore the vibrant Short North Arts District or grab a quick bite at a local eatery.

  • 🚍 Stay Connected

    Download travel apps before you go, as Wi-Fi may be spotty while on the bus. Having offline maps or entertainment will keep you engaged throughout the trip.

  • 🎭 Join Local Events

    Check if there are any local festivals or events happening in DC during your visit; experiencing local culture can enhance your travel experience significantly.

  • 🏛 Hydrate and Snack Smartly

    Bring along a refillable water bottle and healthy snacks. Staying hydrated and nourished helps you feel better on the road, especially on longer stretches.

FAQ

The route may include stops in cities like Indianapolis, Dayton, and Columbus. Each stop offers a chance to stretch your legs and explore briefly.
Most buses are equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restrooms. Some services also offer snacks or beverages for purchase.
The bus ride typically takes around 16-20 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the way.
Traveling during holidays can be crowded, so book early. However, experiencing festive events in DC can be a wonderful highlight of your trip.
You're crossing into the Eastern Time Zone, which is one hour ahead of Chicago's Central Time Zone. Plan your arrival and any connections accordingly.

Trips from Chicago