When you need a charter bus in Chicago, Illinois, National Charter Bus has your group transportation solutions covered for all types of trips. We provide minibuses and charter bus rentals for occasions like business trips, private events, school outings, and more in the Windy City. Make your group transportation solutions as simple as possible by renting a bus from the National Charter Bus network! Our 24-hour reservation team is available at 312-392-0239 to help you organize group transportation in Chicago.
Whatever group size you’re traveling with, our nationwide network has the perfect coach bus rental to accommodate your needs! From compact minibus shuttles for smaller groups and local trips throughout Chicago to large-scale charter bus rentals for long-distance, Milwaukee- or Indianapolis-bound road trips, our network has them all. Be sure to ask about amenities like WiFi, DVD players, TV screens, onboard restrooms, reclining seats, and more when you call 312-392-0239 to lock in your Chicago bus rental. Our 24/7 reservation specialists will be happy to connect you with a motorcoach that has everything your group may need.
Rent a bus through our network, and you’ll never have to second-guess your budget. National Charter Bus offers transparent bus rental pricing plans, which means you’ll never see hidden fees on your bill after your Chicago trip has wrapped up. Just give us a call at 312-392-0239 once you know your group trip details—passenger count, pickup/dropoff location and times, amenity needs, etc.—and we’ll provide a fast, free quote for your Chicago charter bus rental with no obligation to book!
When it comes to business trips, time is of the essence. That’s why we recommend renting a corporate transportation shuttle for your next Chicago conference, convention, or networking event to keep everything running smoothly. We’ll pair you with a sleek and modern minibus shuttle that can efficiently transfer attendees, clients, and partners between Chicago’s best business venues, hotels, and restaurants—all on a schedule you set.
Looking for a transportation solution that’s more long-term? From daily employee shuttles that will ease your company’s commute to ongoing bus rentals for quarterly events and offsite meetings, the National Charter Bus team has experience easing all sorts of day-to-day corporate trips throughout Chicago and beyond. Just say the word, and we’ll help you rent a shuttle bus that offers onboard WiFi, tray tables, and power outlets—so everyone can stay productive while on the road!
Chicago has so much to offer sports fans and athletes alike—from the award-winning teams headquartered here to the dozens of sports venues for local and traveling teams. No matter what brings your group to the Windy City, National Charter Bus has the key to timely group transportation that will ease your game day. Stash sporting equipment and coolers in your charter bus rental’s undercarriage bay so every player, staff member, and spectator has plenty of room to stretch out in the climate-controlled cabin above. And with a professional bus driver on your side, no one has to miss a moment of the action at Wrigley Field, the United Center, or any of your favorite stadiums. Rather than circling the parking lot in search of multiple spots, everyone can arrive all at once and within walking distance of the entrance while your driver handles the parking and traffic.
Getting hitched in Chicago? Congrats! While you’re sorting through venues and picking out the perfect cake flavor, let us handle the transportation logistics for every nuptial event on your calendar. From fun-filled nights for your bachelor(ette) party to your unforgettable ceremony and reception, the last thing you ad your loved ones will want to worry about will be how everyone will get where they need to be. Rather than riding the CTA buses in your Sunday best or hailing a bunch of cabs afterward, let a reliable professional driver transfer your guests and wedding party between venues, hotels, and restaurants—all together and all on a schedule you create. Even better, your Chicago bus rental can include any number of comfort-minded amenities to make the ride as fun and refreshing as possible. Onboard restrooms, free WiFi, reclining seats, a hi-tech entertainment system, and more can be included in your Chicago wedding shuttle plan upon request.
If you’re coordinating an outing with kids–whether that be a school field trip, a scout troop outing, or a college campus tour—you’re going to need a reliable and efficient ride throughout Chicago. That’s where National Charter Bus can help! Our network is made up of rigorously maintained vehicles and professional drivers with clean background checks and years of experience behind the wheel. So rather than cramming into an uncomfortable school bus, hop aboard a Chicago charter bus and ride with peace of mind to the Shedd Aquarium, the University of Chicago campus, or any educational destination on your students’ must-see list!
Chicago is no stranger to tourists—and it’s easy to see why! The city is home to a wide variety of attractions and destinations for sightseeing groups and private families taking it all in between reunion events or birthday parties. Whether you’re planning a visit to Navy Pier, have your sights set on the Cloud Gate at Millennium Park, or want to avoid the Chicago tourist traps altogether, you can trust a charter bus rental from our network to keep your crowd comfortable and on time to every reservation and tour stop!
Of course, your private group transportation doesn’t need to end within Chicago city limits. If your group travels bring you out of town—from Fort Wayne and Madison to Detroit, St. Paul, and beyond—rest assured your passengers will stay comfortable for the long haul when your rent a charter bus! Relax in reclining seats, pop a DVD into the TV screens, stream podcasts and music over the free WiFi, and enjoy the ride, no matter the final destination.
1. Where can you park a charter bus in Chicago?
Parking in some parts of Chicago can be notoriously difficult. Thankfully, we’ve compiled an entire blog post about parking a charter bus in Chicago. This blog post also includes information about designated loading and unloading zones throughout the city.
If you don’t feel like reading through the blog post, here’s the quick rundown:
-McCormick Place offers paid reserved overnight parking for motorcoaches. This lot offers in/out privileges and is likely your best bet for convenient parking.
-Additional paid lots for buses can be found near the Lincoln Park Zoo, Soldier Field, and the Museum of Science and Industry.
-Limited free street parking can be found on Canal Street, Kinzie Street, and Green Street.
More information about reserving paid parking can be found on the Chicago Park District website.
2. What is the traffic like in Chicago?
As one of the most populated and tourist-heavy cities in the country, Chicago’s traffic can be a nightmare. According to the TomTom Traffic Index, Chicago ranks as the tenth most congested city in North America.
Rush hour in Chicago usually spans from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. These are often the worst times to hit the road, especially on congested stretches along the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) and I-90.
Keep in mind that traffic may be even heavier during busy travel months throughout the summer, holidays, and special events like Lollapalooza and Chicago Pride.
3. What are the public transportation options like in Chicago?
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) system is the country’s second-largest public transportation system after New York City. CTA operates a rail system (referred to as the ‘L’) and bus system throughout the city. The L operates on 8 routes with 145 stations, while the bus has over 120 routes.
Water taxis are additional public transport options that are perfect for groups looking for unique views of the city. Although Chicago River and Lake Michigan water taxis are operated by private companies, tickets are open to the public to purchase.
4. Where can my charter bus pick my group up at the airport in Chicago?
Public and private buses at O’Hare can be found at the Bus Shuttle Center directly across from the Hilton Airport location. Your charter bus driver will communicate with you based on your arrival or departure time to organize timely pickup and drop off.
5. Are there any restrictions on charter buses in Chicago?
As a major tourist destination, Chicago sees countless charter buses and other tour vehicles throughout the year. Groups traveling in Chicago should be aware of strict loading and unloading policies for charter buses. Your group can only be dropped off at designated stops near Chicago landmarks. Most loading areas have a 15-minute limit, so please make sure everyone moves as quickly as possible to allow other travel groups use of the zone.
When it comes to making the most of any city, sometimes you have to stray from the beaten path to get to the good stuff. Chicago is no different! Here are a few group-friendly, local-favorite destinations you can add to your charter bus rental’s itinerary if you have some time to spare:
Let your minibus shuttle drop your jazz lovers off in front of this 1907 club, named as an homage to the famed Moulin Rouge in Paris. Whether you dig jazz music, you’re traveling with history buffs, or you just want a tasty drink, Green Mill Jazz Club is a must-visit spot for nightlife explorers in Chicago.
Address: 4802 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (773) 878-5552
The Magnificent Mile has a lot to offer in terms of high-end shopping, but if you’re in the mood for something fun and kitschy, there’s always Wolly Mammoth Antiques and Oddities. Peruse the eclectic collection of one-of-a-kind antique furniture, taxidermy animals, and vintage medical paraphernalia packed into this small store. Don’t worry—your charter bus driver can look after your new acquisitions for you when you disembark for your next destination!
Address: 1513 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (773) 989-3294
Chicago is big for car-lovers, and few destinations in the city will pique your autophiles’ interest like this museum. Exhibits include Bumblebee from Transformers, KITT from Knight Rider, and the Ecto-1 from Ghostbusters. Even if your bus rental passengers include some non-car enthusiasts, the museum also has a Dinosaur Park and an antique mall to pass the time in.
Address: 27582 Volo Village Rd, Volo, IL 60073
Phone: (815) 385-3644
Interested in all things espionage? Have your charter bus drop off everyone at this non-disclosed location (just kidding, it’s in West Town) and explore this shop of novelty spy-themed gifts. Here your group can purchase disguises and gadgets as well as cards, toys, and books about spies. All proceeds from sales at Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co. benefit 826CHI, a local non-profit creative writing center.
Address: 1276 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: (773) 772-8108
The Windy City may not be famous for table-top turtle racing, but you’ll definitely find it here at this local dive bar. Visitors can enter raffles to win prizes like t-shirts and drinks based on each turtle’s speed. Enjoy a game of darts, see if your favorite turtle wins big, and sip some affordable brews—without stressing the ride home, of course. That’s what your Chicago shuttle bus rental is for.
Address: 1818 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (773) 784-8755
Right photo Credit: Thrillist, Sean Cooley
While there is no shortage of places to stay in the area, Wrigley Hostel is one of the best and most unique lodging options near historic Wrigleytown. The hostel is a social-centric lodging option that’s central to bars, restaurants, and other hotspots in Chicago. Just be sure to reserve for your bus driver as well if you intend to rent a bus for an overnight trip!
Address: 3514 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 598-4471
Music Box Theatre opened in 1929 and has operated as an art-house and repertory cinema since 1983. The theatre is famous for showing films in 70mm, hosting sing-a-long nights, and having live organ music before shows. Group ticket discounts are available for 20 or more guests, it’s easy to pile a group of film enthusiasts onto a charter bus rental and enjoy a night at the theatre!
Address: 3733 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: (773) 871-6604
The Magnificent Mile is one of the best stretches in the city for shopping and dining in Chicago. You’ll find luxury shops like Cartier and Louis Vuitton, as well as upscale department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdales. It's the perfect place to get in some luxe retail therapy and dine on a tasty lunch or dinner. You’ll never have to miss a dinner reservation when an efficient minibus shuttle is facilitating your group's outing to this popular shopping destination!
Address: North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
The 606, also known as The Bloomingdale Trail, is a 2.7-mile elevated trail built along former railroad tracks. It stretches between Chicago’s Hermosa, Logan Square, and Bucktown neighborhoods, offering visitors access to multiple green spaces and outdoor art installations. It's a wonderful place to get some fresh air and stretch your legs after a few hours in your charter bus cabin.
Starting Address: 1805 N Ridgeway Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (312) 742-4622
Besides the obvious draw of America’s favorite pastime, Wrigley Field is one of the oldest ballparks in Major League Baseball, meaning it’s well worth a visit for any type of group. Private ballpark tours are available for groups during select non-game days, and bus rental parking is easy enough to find nearby.
Address: 1060 W. Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: (773) 404-2827
No matter where you are in the rental process—from figuring out your budget to locking in your no-obligation quote—the National Charter Bus team is always ready to help you with seamless Chicago group transportation. Call 312-392-0239 today and we’ll be happy to answer any transportation questions you might have before your Chicago group trip!