Chicago, IL, USA to Wausau, WI, USA from $45: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$45 by busBest price

381 kmDistance

3h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Wausau 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.

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Chicago - Wausau operators

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

Plane

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Wausau/Marshfield (CWA)

Average Duration

1h 19m

Estimated price

$2863-2864

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Appleton (ATW)

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$2865-2866

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Green Bay (GRB)

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$2865-2867

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Appleton (ATW)

Average Duration

1h 12m

Estimated price

$2865-2862

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Green Bay (GRB)

Average Duration

1h 11m

Estimated price

$2865-2867

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Portage

Average Duration

3h 19m

Estimated price

$2868-2865

Bus

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

0-0

Bus from Portage to Wausau Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

Estimated price

0-0

Bus from Milwaukee Airport Amtrak Bus Stop to Wausau Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

5h 25m

Estimated price

0-0

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Milwaukee Mitchell Airport

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$45-45

Contact phone

+1 608-752-5407

Website

https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

0-0

Contact phone

+1 800-236-1240

Website

golamers.com

Bus from Milwaukee to Wausau Transit, WI

Average Duration

5h 25m

Estimated price

$50-50

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Wausau.

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The distance between Chicago and Wausau is approximately 381.4 km, or 456.6 km by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes about 6 hours and 22 minutes to reach Wausau from Chicago by flying to Appleton and then taking a bus. Alternatively, it takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes to fly directly from Chicago to Wausau. By car, the journey can be made in around 4 hours and 37 minutes. Finally, taking a bus from Chicago to Wausau takes approximately 9 hours and 36 minutes.

If cost-effectiveness is a priority, taking a bus from Chicago to Wausau is the most affordable option, with prices ranging from $40 to $65. However, this may not be the most time-efficient option as it takes around 9 hours and 36 minutes. For a quicker journey, flying is the best option, with a travel time of just 3 hours and 13 minutes. Although it is more expensive, with prices ranging from $280 to $420, it saves significant time compared to other modes of transportation.

The prices for traveling from Chicago to Wausau by bus range from $42 to $65.

To get from Chicago to Wausau without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 457.1 km, which takes about 4 hours and 37 minutes by car. The cost of driving from Chicago to Wausau can vary, but it typically ranges from $50 to $75, considering factors such as gas prices and toll fees.

To travel from Chicago to Wausau without a car, you can take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 19 minutes.

There is no direct link between Chicago and Wausau by bus. However, there are bus services operated by Amtrak that depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive at Wausau Amtrak Bus Stop via Madison. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 7h 30m.

The flight between Chicago and Wausau typically takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $286 and $413.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Wausau. With over 33 hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable for your budget and preferences. Prices start at $54, ensuring that there are options available for various budgets.