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Chicago, IL, USA to Milwaukee, WI, USA from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States
to
Milwaukee, United States

How to Get from Chicago to Milwaukee: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$16 - DriveBest price
132.4 kmDistance
1h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Milwaukee with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
1h  29m
Estimated price
$3-75
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  36m
Estimated price
$16-25
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 132.4 km
Duration: 1h 29m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
1h  50m
Estimated price
$10-45
Company
Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
2h  5m
Estimated price
$10-45
Company
American Airlines, United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  10m
Estimated price
$114-326
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Milwaukee

Traveling from Chicago to Milwaukee offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling streets of a major city and the relaxed charm of a lakeside getaway.

Best Neighbourhoods in Milwaukee

Milwaukee's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and experiences for visitors.

Walker’s Point
• Known for its vibrant art scene.
• Home to trendy bars and restaurants.
Bay View
• Offers a laid-back, community feel.
• Features local shops and parks.
Historic Third Ward
• Renowned for its galleries and boutiques.
• Active cultural scene with theaters and festivals.

Best Times To Visit Milwaukee's Attractions

Maximize your Milwaukee experience by timing your visits to popular spots.

Milwaukee Art Museum
Visit early weekday mornings for quieter galleries and peaceful views.
Harley-Davidson Museum
Late afternoons on weekdays offer fewer crowds and more engaging tours.
Lakefront Park
Early spring or fall weekends provide stunning scenery and fewer visitors.

Milwaukee Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Milwaukee experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters influencing your travel plans. The best times to visit are late spring and early fall when mild temperatures and vibrant scenery enhance your experience.

Dining Recommendation in Milwaukee

Experience the iconic Milwaukee-style fish fry at Lakefront Brewery, where fresh local catch is served with a side of lively atmosphere and craft brews. This dining experience contrasts with Chicago's culinary scene by embracing a cozy, communal vibe that celebrates local flavors and traditions.

Chicago - Milwaukee operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Milwaukee, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$3-75
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Milwaukee Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$10-45
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$10-45
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Milwaukee (MKE)

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$150-470
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Milwaukee (MKE)

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$150-480

Chicago to Milwaukee: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Milwaukee offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Chicago to Milwaukee, covering a distance of 149.7 km in just under 1 hour and 36 minutes. Enjoy the smooth drive through the picturesque Midwest landscapes as you head northwards. 💸 Explore the budget-friendly options for traveling by car from Chicago to Milwaukee, with prices ranging from $16 to $25.
Average price
$16 - $25
🚆 The train journey from Chicago to Milwaukee takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes, covering a distance of 138.2 km. 🎫 Tickets for this route can range from $3 to $75, offering travelers an affordable and convenient mode of transportation between the two cities.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Milwaukee station
Useful tips for train travellers
On your train trip from Chicago to Milwaukee, be sure to take advantage of the onboard catering services offered by Amtrak, the main operator for this route. They provide a café car with a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. Look out for options like breakfast sandwiches, salads, and local craft beers. Pre-ordering meals online is also an option if you want to secure your dining experience.
Amtrak offers several seating options for your trip. Choose from Superliner Coach (Economy class), Business Class, or First Class. Business Class provides larger seating spaces, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, and a quieter environment, while First Class offers the most premium experience with spacious seating and enhanced service. Check Amtrak's website for seating layouts and to book the option that best suits your needs.
Upon arrival in Milwaukee, the Amtrak Milwaukee Intermodal Station is conveniently located downtown and within walking distance of many attractions. There are no luggage storage facilities or shower services at the station, but it does have clean restrooms. To quickly reach the city center, you can take the Milwaukee County Transit System bus routes 15 or 30 from the station. For details on these routes, visit the MCTS website at ridemcts.com
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Milwaukee is a quick and convenient option with the fastest direct flight taking only 47 minutes. American Airlines and United Airlines provide services for this route, offering efficiency and comfort for travelers. 🧳 The total flight duration between Chicago's O'Hare Airport and Milwaukee Airport is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a short trip or a weekend getaway. ✈️ Ticket prices for flights between Chicago and Milwaukee typically range from $114 to $326, offering passengers a variety of options depending on their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Milwaukee Airport
🚌 Travel hassle-free from Chicago to Milwaukee on a direct Greyhound bus service taking approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. 🛣️ The journey covers a distance of 148.2 km, with buses departing every four hours from Chicago Bus Station to arrive at Milwaukee Bus Station, offering convenient and reliable transportation. 💰 Ticket prices range from $10 to $45, making this bus trip an affordable and efficient option for exploring the vibrant city of Milwaukee from the bustling streets of Chicago.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Milwaukee Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Milwaukee.

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The distance between Chicago and Milwaukee is 132 km by air and 149 km by road. Traveling by train takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes, by plane it takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes. Driving by car from Chicago to Milwaukee typically takes 1 hour and 36 minutes, while taking the bus usually takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Milwaukee is driving, with costs ranging from $16 to $25 and a travel time of 1 hour and 36 minutes. However, the quickest option is by train, which takes 1 hour and 29 minutes but can cost between $3 and $75.
The prices for a train ticket between Chicago and Milwaukee can range from $3 to $75, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. The prices for a bus ticket between Milwaukee and Chicago can vary from $8 to $45, depending on the bus company and the type of seating.
To get from Chicago to Milwaukee without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 150 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 36 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Chicago to Milwaukee by car can vary, with prices ranging from $16 to $25 depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and tolls.
The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Chicago to Milwaukee without a car is by train. The train journey takes around 1 hour and 29 minutes and ticket prices range from $3 to $75. Another option is to take a bus, which takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes and tickets cost between $8 and $45. If you prefer to fly, there are flights available that take approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $80 to $360.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Milwaukee. You can take a train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee, which departs every four hours and takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service available from Chicago Bus Station to Milwaukee that operates four times a day and takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
The flight between Chicago and Milwaukee typically takes around 48 minutes. The cost of a flight between these two cities can vary from $84 to $356.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Milwaukee with over 238 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $50 per night, offering a range of affordable options for travelers.

Trips to Milwaukee