Chartering a bus from Cicero unlocks a world of exciting travel opportunities for groups of all sizes. From local attractions to destinations across state borders, there are endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you’re planning a school field trip, company outing, or weekend getaway, here’s your guide to the best nearby and beyond destinations you can explore with a Cicero, IL charter bus rental.

Nearby Destinations in Illinois

1. Chicago, IL (Just 15 minutes away!)

A vibrant metropolis on the edge of Lake Michigan, Chicago is perfect for a day trip or a longer stay.

• Must-visit landmarks include the Willis Tower Skydeck, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier.
• Explore cultural institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago or Museum of Science and Industry.
• Foodies will love indulging in Chicago-style pizza and a stroll through foodie havens like the West Loop.

2. Brookfield Zoo (10 minutes away)

Hop over to one of the premier zoos in the country, located just next door to Cicero. Perfect for families or school trips, the Brookfield Zoo boasts over 200 acres of exhibits, featuring a wide variety of animal species.

3. Starved Rock State Park (1.5 hours away)

Nature lovers can relax and unwind at this stunning state park. Known for its breathtaking canyons, waterfalls, and picturesque hiking trails, Starved Rock offers a tranquil escape less than two hours from Cicero.

4. Springfield, IL (3.5 hours away)

Explore Illinois’ capital city, brimming with history and culture.

• Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
• Tour the Illinois State Capitol building.
• Stroll through historic sites such as Lincoln’s Home and the Old State Capitol.

Beyond State Borders Destinations

1. Milwaukee, WI (1.5 hours away)

Take a trip north to the beer capital of the Midwest! This bustling city along Lake Michigan offers fantastic activities, including brewery tours, the Harley-Davidson Museum, and the Milwaukee Public Market.

2. Indianapolis, IN (3 hours away)

Known as the Crossroads of America, Indianapolis boasts a thriving arts scene and professional sports.

• Explore the Indianapolis Museum of Art or The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
• See the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
• Stroll along the Indianapolis Canal Walk for a scenic afternoon.

3. Madison, WI (2.5 hours away)

Wisconsin’s picturesque capital is perfect for a weekend retreat.

• Explore the University of Wisconsin’s Arboretum and Memorial Union Terrace.
• Grab lunch at the famous Dane County Farmers’ Market.
• Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol with its grand architecture.

4. St. Louis, MO (5 hours away)

Gather your group for a trip to this iconic city along the Mississippi River.

• See the Gateway Arch up close.
• Visit the St. Louis Zoo and City Museum, both perfect for kids.
• Baseball fans will appreciate catching a game at Busch Stadium, home of the Cardinals.

5. Michigan’s Harbor Country (1.5-2 hours away)

For relaxation by the water, head to Michigan’s Harbor Country. Ideal for wineries, beaches, and boutique shopping, destinations like New Buffalo and St. Joseph offer ultimate charm and serenity.

1. Type and Size of the Bus
   • Type: Different types of buses (charter bus, minibus, executive coach, party bus, etc.) have varying costs based on their amenities and features.
   • Capacity: Larger buses generally cost more due to their size and the number of passengers they can accommodate.
2. Distance and Duration
   • Mileage: Costs increase with the total distance traveled.
   • Trip Duration: Longer rental periods, such as multi-day trips, result in higher charges, especially if overnight stays for the driver are required.
   • Route Complexity: Multiple stops or routes with high traffic can add to the cost.
3. Timing and Season
   • Time of Year: Demand during peak seasons (summer, major holidays) typically raises prices.
   • Day of the Week: Weekend rentals often cost more than weekday trips.
   • Time of Day: Night or off-hour bookings can sometimes involve additional fees.
4. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location
   • “Garage time” to your starting point may incur extra costs.
   • Special accommodations for remote or hard-to-reach locations could also increase expenses.
5. Driver and Staff
   • Driver fees, which include wages, per diem, and overnight accommodations (if needed), are often factored into the total price.
   • Additional staff, such as tour guides or assistants, may involve extra charges.
6. Fuel Costs
   • Fluctuations in fuel prices can affect the overall rental cost, especially for long-distance trips.
7. Permits and Tolls
   • Road tolls, parking permits, and special city permits (if required for your route) can raise the total price.
8. Insurance and Liability
   • Extra coverage beyond the federal minimum for insurance coverage or liability waivers.
9. Special Requests
   • Custom itineraries, last-minute bookings, or changes to the schedule may involve additional charges.

Tips to Manage Costs

1. • Book in advance to secure better rates.
   • Choose a bus that meets your exact needs without unnecessary extras.
   • Consolidate routes and stops to minimize time and distance.

Let us know if you’d like help with specific estimates or further advice!

We only partner with bus operators who share our steadfast commitment to safety and service. We vet all of our operators through a process that includes:

• Safety Records: We examine safety records in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Safer database to ensure the operator in question is fully compliant with the DOT.
• Assessing On-Time Performance: Not being late is crucial, so we select partners that have successfully delivered for us numerous times in the past.
• Customer Reviews: Ratings from past customers helps us gauge overall satisfaction and service quality.

We also require our partners to uphold high standards in cleanliness and customer service, ensuring all trips are as pleasant as they are safe. Our thorough approach guarantees that from the moment you get on board, you can relax knowing that safety is our top priority.

Planning your charter bus trip has never been easier! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure a bus rental for your trip:

1. Contact a Reservation Specialist:
   • Reach out to one of our reservation specialists by calling 866-205-5197! They’re available to assist you with all your travel needs and answer any questions you may have.
2. Identify Your Destination:
   • Decide where you want to go, and from where- are you traveling into Cicero? Or do you plan to depart from Cicero?
3. Discuss Your Travel Requirements:
   • Provide details about your travel dates, passenger count, and any other special requirements. This will help our specialist recommend the best bus options for your group.
4. Select Your Bus Type:
   • Choose from a variety of charter buses, such as minibuses for smaller groups or full-sized coaches for larger parties. Each type offers different amenities, so be sure to discuss your preferences.
5. Receive a Quote:
   • Get a free price quote based on your travel itinerary, group size and date. This will ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved.
6. Finalize Your Booking:
   • Once you’re satisfied with the arrangements, confirm your booking with your account executive. The account executive will finalize your itinerary and provide any additional information you need.
7. Prepare for Your Trip:
   • Pack your bags, gather your group and get ready for an exciting adventure!

By following these steps, you’ll have a memorable experience booking a charter bus for your next trip. Happy trails!

When you book a charter bus rental, understanding the payment process is important to ensure there are no misunderstandings. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:

1. Get a Quote: After you have selected the perfect bus for your trip and shared your itinerary, you’ll receive a detailed quote. Once you accept this quote, you can move forward to the payment stage.
2. Secure Your Booking with a Deposit: To lock in your reservation, a deposit of 20% is required if the trip is more than 30 days away. This will ensure that your bus is reserved exclusively for your trip.
3. Payment Confirmation and Dates: When the deposit is processed, you’ll get a confirmation. This will include important information, such as the deadline to pay the remaining balance- always 30 days prior to the trip.
4. Payment Methods: A credit card is generally required to finalize the reservation. This will ensure that any future payments can be processed efficiently. We also accept payment by ACH, wire and check.

By following these steps, your North American Charter Bus rental will be secured, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.