Metropolitan Shuttle: Setting the Standard for Charter Bus Rentals in 2025 Read More

Chicago charter bus rental

Charter bus rental interior

Ready for your next Chicago bus rental?

If you’re looking for a charter bus rental in Chicago, Metropolitan Shuttle’s 25 years of bus rental experience serving Chicago groups of all kinds is your solution. Need a bus rental for a Cubs game at Wrigley Field? Or perhaps you’re planning to explore the neighborhoods of Pilsen and Logan Square, or catch an event at Navy Pier? Metropolitan Shuttle is by your side for all your Chicago bus rental needs. With a professional driver handling the logistics, you can focus on soaking in the Windy City’s charm.

Whether you’re planning to rent a bus for a corporate retreatcharter a bus for a convention, or schedule a day-trip charter bus rental, Metropolitan Shuttle is your trusted reservation service for bus rentals in the Windy City. We’ll connect you with the best Chicago charter bus companies to fit your group’s needs. Call us at (312) 779-0915 or contact us online today for a free quote for your Chicago trip.

Reliable Chicago Charter Buses You Can Trust

Metropolitan Shuttle sets the standard for Chicago charter bus rentals, combining reliability and comfort with the best prices in the industry. Whether we’re shuttling guests of PC Events and Experiences LLC between the Essex Hotel and the Chicago Athletic Association, or transporting gymnasts from Elite Core Gymnastics in West Dundee to their competition in Des Plaines, our commitment to safe and reliable Chicago bus rental services is reflected in the many 5-star reviews from satisfied clients.

When you book a Chicago charter bus rental with Metropolitan Shuttle, you’re backed by unmatched safety oversight and industry-leading insurance coverage. Every charter bus we offer in Chicago meets or exceeds strict FMCSA safety standards, carries full insurance, and is operated by well vetted drivers. All Chicago charter bus operators in our network maintain at least $5 million in liability coverage, and we add another $6 million in umbrella protection. 

Whether you need a Chicago charter bus for employee shuttle services, a transfer to O’Hare airport, or a weekend getaway charter bus rental, our team delivers service that’s as dependable as it is professional. Call (312) 779-0915 today or request a quote online! Experience why we’re the trusted choice for Chicago bus charter travel done right.

Best Chicago Charter Bus Company
Chicago city
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On your side every step of the way

What Chicago charter bus options do you offer?

coach bus

Coach Bus

40-56 PASSENGERS

For large groups seeking a comfortable ride with reclining seats and quality amenities.

Mini-bus

20-30 PASSENGERS

For mid-size groups without the need for extra capacity of a full-size motor coach.

Specialty Vehicles

18-56 PASSENGERS

For exclusive events that call for style, plush interiors, comfort, and premium amenities.

Enjoy our premium Chicago bus rental features

Free wifi and
HD TV

Stay connected with free WiFi or stream your favorite shows and movies on HD TV on your Chicago charter bus rental.

Reclining seats with power outlets

Stretch out and get comfortable in recliner seats while you keep all your devices charged as you cruise down Lake Shore Drive in your own private Chicago bus rental.

Onboard restrooms

There’s a lot to see in Chicago. Don’t waste your time stopping to use the restroom. Fully functional and clean restrooms are readily available onboard.

Luggage storage

Packing heavy for Chicago is never a problem. Spacious luggage storage keeps your bags out of the way while you enjoy your charter bus rental in Chicago.

Chicago charter bus trip

Nearby Suggestions

When you choose Metropolitan Shuttle Chicago Charter Bus, you gain access to an extensive selection of vehicles, all coordinated through one point of contact. This makes the planning process easy, providing you with the flexibility to choose the ideal transportation for your private charter bus rental.

Contact us today and discover why so many organizations trust Metropolitan Shuttle to coordinate their charter bus rental service in Chicago. Our reservation specialists are standing by to answer any questions about your group transportation.

FAQs

Other FAQs

What Are Some Travel Tips for Visiting Chicago

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When planning a trip to the Windy City, there are a few tips to keep in mind to enhance your experience:

The 10 Most Popular Destinations in the Windy City for Charter Bus Rentals

  1. Millenium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular green spaces and is located in the heart of The Loop.
  2. The Art Institute of Chicago houses more than 300,000 works of art and is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the world.
  3. Navy Pier is a famous waterfront destination with restaurants, amusement park rides and such attractions as the Chicago Childrens’ Museum.
  4. Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower offers a 360-degree view of the city from the 103rd floor.
  5. Shedd Aquarium, as the 3rd largest aquarium in the world, features for than 30,000 animals.
  6. Wrigley Field is the home of the Chicago Cubs and offers group tours showcasing more than 100 years of baseball history.
  7. The Museum of Science and Industry houses 2,000 interactive exhibits covering many topics.
  8. Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in North America and is free for visitors year-round.
  9. Grant Park is none of Chicago’s oldest green spaces and hosts group-friendly events throughout the year.
  10. The Magnificent Mile is known for upscale shopping and dining, historical landmarks and a fun atmosphere.

Discover Hidden Gems

  1. Explore Beyond the Magnificent Mile: While shopping on Michigan Avenue is tempting, don’t miss neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Logan Square for a more local vibe.
  2. Visit Unique Museums: Apart from the Art Institute, check out the Museum of Contemporary Art and the American Writers Museum for a fresh perspective.

Navigate Chicago Efficiently

  • Public Transportation is Your Friend: Utilize the ‘L’ train system and buses—it’s an efficient and budget-friendly way to explore the city.
  • Download Transit Apps: Apps like CTA Tracker can help you navigate routes and schedules smoothly.

Dining Tips

  1. Dive into Local Cuisine: While trying the deep-dish pizza is a given, also sample the lesser-known dishes like Italian beef sandwiches and Garrett popcorn.
  2. Book in Advance: For popular spots, especially during weekends, it’s wise to make reservations to avoid long wait times.

Parking and Commuting

  • Choose Convenient Parking: If driving, use park-and-ride facilities on the city’s outskirts.
  • Consider Car Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and often easier than finding a parking spot downtown.

Seasonal Activities

  • Winter Wonders: Enjoy ice skating at Millennium Park if visiting in winter.
  • Summer Festivals: Plan around seasonal events like Lollapalooza for a vibrant city experience.

Charter Bus Tips

  • For group travel, research local charter services and find designated loading areas downtown to avoid confusion and delays.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to experience the rich culture and excitement that Chicago has to offer without getting caught in typical tourist traps. Enjoy your Chicago adventure!

Is it better to rent a full-sized charter bus or a minibus for downtown Chicago?

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If your group is under 30 people, a minibus is definitely the better choice for Chicago (unless you plan to leave the city and travel a considerable distance.). The city’s historic streets (especially in the Loop and River North) can be very narrow with its grid system and one-way patterns. Minibuses are more flexible and agile in this traffic and can access certain hotel entrances and smaller loading zones better than a 56-passenger charter bus. 

Can we bring alcohol or food on the bus while touring the city?

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Food and drinks are usually allowed, provided the bus is returned in clean condition (it’s a good idea to bring a large trash bag.) However, if you plan to allow alcohol, you must notify us in advance. We will usually require a refundable cleaning deposit or a small fee for such trips. Please note that glass bottles are prohibited for safety reasons.

Do I need to provide a hotel room for the driver?

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If your trip involves an overnight stay in Chicago or elsewhere, you are responsible for providing the driver’s lodging. Chicago hotels are familiar with this practice and might even throw in a complimentary room when you book a large block of rooms for your group. Keeping the driver at the same hotel as the group ensures a more seamless morning departure, but is not always necessary.

How much does a charter bus rental cost in Chicago? How about a Minibus?

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Pricing in Chicago is subject to the laws of supply and demand and fluctuates based on the season and specific events. Prices tend to be higher in spring, during major conventions at McCormick Place, or during huge festivals like Lollapalooza. Full-day rates in a 56-passenger charter bus can range from $1,800 to $3,000. Hourly rates for minibuses run from $140 to $200. Generally, you can expect to pay for a 5-hour minimum. To get the best rate, we recommend providing us the details of your trip (so we can customize and identify ways to save,) and booking well in advance.

Does the city have engine idling restrictions?

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Yes. To reduce emissions, Chicago city ordinance makes it unlawful for diesel vehicles to idle for more than 3 minutes in any 60-minute period, except in extreme weather (below 32°F or above 80°F) to maintain passenger climate control. Violations of Chicago Ordinance 9-80-095 carry a fine of $250 per offense.

What do we do to ensure a smooth charter bus pickup at O’Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW)?

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At O’Hare, most charter bus pickups must take place at the new Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) located at 10255 W. Zemke Blvd., accessible via the ATS (Airport Transit System which is free) from all terminals. For Midway, pickups typically occur at the regional bus area, lower level through the parking garage. These airports are extremely busy, so we recommend providing your flight details will allow us to monitor delays and coordinate the loading window perfectly.

Are there strict rules for dropping off and picking up groups?

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Yes. Chicago has strict “Loading Zone” ordinances to prevent gridlock. Charter buses are generally permitted to stand in designated loading zones for 5 – 30 minutes maximum, but best not to push it more than 15 minutes. Your driver can’t just wait at the curb for your group; the group should be gathered and ready to board before you have the bus pull up to avoid fines or being waved on by traffic enforcement.

Where can our charter bus park in Chicago?

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Parking charter buses in Chicago requires some advance-planning. A popular spot for overnight and long-term parking is the McCormick Place Marshalling Yard (31st St. and Moe Dr.), which is fenced and patrolled 24/7, and offers in-and-out privileges for trucks and buses. For day trips, buses often park at the Adler Planetarium Lot (near Museum Campus.) This lot is near the Planetarium and Soldier Field, so is busy on event days and should therefore be booked well in advance. The Wilson Lot in Lincoln Park (4600 N Lakeshore Dr) is also frequently used. You can make a reservation through the Chicago Park District parking website. Some limited street parking exists on Canal St. (south of Roosevelt Road, east side) and Kinzie St. (between Des Plaines St. and Union Ave., both sides), but these spots fill up quickly.

Are There Any Restrictions on Charter Buses in Chicago?

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Absolutely, there are specific restrictions for charter buses in Chicago aimed at managing the city’s bustling tourism traffic. As a major tourist destination, Chicago is proactive about regulating vehicular flow, especially around key attractions.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Loading and Unloading Zones: The city has designated areas for charter buses to load and unload passengers near popular landmarks. It’s essential for bus operators and groups to use these zones to maintain smooth traffic flow and ensure safety.
  • Time Constraints: In some areas, there are restrictions on how long a bus can remain in a loading zone. It’s important to adhere to these time limits to avoid fines and to keep the area from becoming congested.
  • Route Regulations: Certain streets in the downtown area may have restrictions or be off-limits to large vehicles like charter buses. Awareness of these routes is crucial for planning efficient travel within the city.
General Questions

How can a charter bus rental accommodate different group sizes?

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Our charter bus services offer a range of vehicles, from smaller minibuses suitable for 18 passengers to larger buses that can comfortably seat up to 56 passengers, ensuring that groups of any size can be accommodated.

Are there accessible options for individuals with mobility concerns?

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Yes, Metropolitan Shuttle offers ADA-accessible buses, catering to travelers with mobility needs to ensure everyone can travel comfortably and safely.

What level of professionalism can be expected from your charter bus services?

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Metropolitan Shuttle works with the most experienced local operators and professionals, ensuring that you have a skilled driver to manage your group’s travel needs.

Which cities or regions are you able to serve?

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All of the major cities and many smaller cities in the United States are served by our nationwide charter bus services.

How can I determine what kind of bus I require?

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Our experts assist you in choosing the best bus rental for your needs based on your schedule, group size, and preferred amenities.

What kinds of charter buses are available?

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Metropolitan Shuttle offers motor coaches, minibuses, party buses, executive coaches, limo buses, school buses, shuttle buses, and luxury buses are just a few of the many vehicles we provide.

How many video monitors do the buses have?

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Deluxe charter buses will typically have four to six video monitors. Minibuses will have 1-3.

Can I charter a minibus for an overnight trip?

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Minibuses are not designed for long-distance travel. They are much lower to the ground and therefore far less comfortable for passengers travelling on the highway. Few, if any, operators will allow their minibuses to travel much more than 100 miles out of a given city.

Who arranges and pays for the driver’s hotel room?

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Typically, the client will be responsible for booking the driver’s room on overnight trips. Often, if you ask, hotels will add a complimentary room for the driver when you book rooms for a large group.

If I don’t need the bus for the whole day, will I still need to pay for it for the entire day?

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Most charter services have four- or five-hour minimums on bus rentals. Therefore, if your event is from 9am to 5pm and you’re renting a bus for transportation both to and from, it could cost the same amount to keep the vehicle for the day as it would to have it leave and come back for the return trip. However, there are occasions when we can offer special one-way transfer rates to accommodate those types of circumstances.

Ready to book your Chicago trip? Get a free quote today

Do you have questions about chartering a bus? Ready to get a free quote on your next trip? Get in touch with our helpful charter bus professionals.