Chicago, IL, USA to Appleton, WI, USA from $16: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Chicago to Appleton: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$16 - Train, BusBest price
275 kmDistance
2h 52m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Appleton 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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Traveling From Chicago to Appleton
Your journey from the bustling urban landscape of Chicago to the charming, laid-back vibe of Appleton reveals a fascinating contrast between the dynamic city life and serene small-town experiences.
Best Neighbourhoods in Appleton
Appleton offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.
Downtown Appleton
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters
• Diverse dining options for every palate
Fox River Corridor
• Scenic waterfront views perfect for strolls
• Popular for biking and outdoor activities
Historic District
• Rich architectural history with beautiful homes
• Quaint shops and cafés enhance local charm
Best Times To Visit Appleton's Attractions
Planning your visit to Appleton's attractions can enhance your experience.
The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
Weekday matinees usually have fewer crowds and allow for a more intimate experience.
Appleton Public Museum
Visiting in the late morning on weekdays offers a quieter atmosphere for exploration.
Lawrence University
Take a stroll in the fall for stunning campus scenery and fewer visitors.
Appleton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Appleton experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, making late spring and early fall the ideal times to visit for pleasant conditions. Be prepared for seasonal variations, as weather can significantly influence outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.
Dining in Appleton: A Culinary Contrast
Try the Wisconsin cheese curds at the local favorite, The Maple Tree, where the cozy atmosphere and farm-to-table ingredients create a homey dining experience that stands apart from Chicago’s vibrant dining scene. The rich, creamy flavors of artisanal cheese showcase the area's agricultural heritage, offering a taste of Appleton’s local charm.
Chicago - Appleton operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Appleton, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
united.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) to Appleton Airport (ATW)
Average Duration
1h 12mEstimated price
$1146-1147Plane from Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) to Green Bay Airport (GRB)
Average Duration
1h 11mEstimated price
$1146-11410Website
aa.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) to Appleton Airport (ATW)
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$1146-1148Plane from Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) to Green Bay Airport (GRB)
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$1146-11410Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee Amtrak Station
Average Duration
1h 29mEstimated price
$1149-4110Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Bus from Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak to Appleton Amtrak Station
Average Duration
2h 24mEstimated price
$4118-4119Contact phone
+1 800-236-1240Website
golamers.com
Bus from Milwaukee, WI to Appleton, WI
Average Duration
2h 25mEstimated price
$160-4115Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Milwaukee Bus Station
Average Duration
1h 50mEstimated price
$163-4113Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
flixbus.com
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Milwaukee Mitchell Airport
Average Duration
1h 35mEstimated price
$164-4113Chicago to Appleton: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and Appleton 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 the bustling city of Chicago to the charming town of Appleton, covering a distance of 194 miles in approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. The journey promises picturesque views and pleasant driving conditions along the way.
💸 With car rental prices ranging from $35 to $55, exploring the route from Chicago to Appleton presents an affordable and convenient travel option for those seeking a change of scenery. Starting from the lively urban landscape of Chicago, prepare for a leisurely drive towards the tranquil surroundings of Appleton.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚂 Experience the scenic journey from Chicago to Appleton by train. This route covers a distance of 185 miles and takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes with a transfer along the way.
🚌 The first step involves taking a bus towards Milwaukee from the Greyhound Bus Station in Chicago. This leg of the journey lasts about 2 hours and 5 minutes and is operated by FlixBus.
🌳 The second step entails boarding a bus heading towards Green Bay at the Milwaukee Intermodal Station. This part of the trip takes around 2 hours and 28 minutes and is serviced by Amtrak's Thruway Connecting Service, ultimately arriving at Appleton WI.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Amtrak, the primary operator for this route, offers a café car with a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals available for purchase. Be sure to check the hours for dining service as it may vary during your trip; you can browse the menu online before you board to ensure you have an idea of what you’d like.
• Seating Options: For your journey from Chicago to Appleton, Amtrak provides several seating options, including Coach (Economy), Business Class, and sleeper cars on longer routes. Coach Class is affordable and comfortable for a trip of this duration, while Business Class offers more spacious seating and quieter environments. Make your reservation early to secure a preferred seat.
• Arrival Station Tip: When arriving at Appleton, the train station is relatively small but equipped with basic amenities. There are restrooms available, but no dedicated showers. Luggage storage services are not offered, so plan to carry your belongings with you or use local transport options directly to your destination.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Appleton is quick and convenient with direct flights available, taking just 56 minutes from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Appleton Airport. Both United Airlines and American Airlines offer flights on this route.
🌍 The total travel time from Chicago to Appleton is approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes by plane. This efficient mode of transportation saves you time and allows you to reach your destination comfortably.
💸 Prices for flights between Appleton and Chicago can range from $114 to $411, giving travelers flexibility in choosing a fare that fits their budget. Planning ahead and comparing prices can help you find the best deal for your trip.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Appleton Airport
🚌 Starting from Chicago Bus Station, travelers can embark on a scenic journey to Appleton with transfers in Milwaukee. The entire bus trip takes approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes.
🚌 Tickets for the bus between Appleton and Chicago range from $22 to $111, offering flexibility for travelers with varying budgets. Upon arrival at Appleton Amtrak Station, visitors can explore the charming city and its attractions.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Appleton Amtrak Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When booking your bus, consider checking both Greyhound (greyhound.com) and Amtrak Thruway (amtrak.com) as they offer different routes and timings; prices vary from $22 to $111, so compare options for the best deal.
• Remember to plan for your transfer at Milwaukee Amtrak Station; it typically takes about 30 minutes for bus transfers to allow for boarding; check the station map and schedule in advance via the Amtrak site (amtrak.com) to ensure a smooth transition.
• Upon arrival at Appleton Amtrak Station, take note that it's relatively small and easy to navigate; local bus services, such as Valley Transit (valleytransit.com), are available just outside the station, making it convenient to reach your final destination.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to Appleton.
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The distance between Chicago and Appleton is 171 miles. By train and bus, it takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes to travel from Chicago to Appleton. If you prefer to fly, the travel time is around 2 hours and 56 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, while taking the bus can take around 4 hours and 58 minutes.
For a cost-effective option, taking the bus via O'Hare is the cheapest way to travel from Chicago to Appleton, with ticket prices ranging from $29 to $40. However, this option takes longer, with a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 6 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest method, taking only 2 hours and 56 minutes, but at a higher cost, with tickets priced between $120 and $430. It ultimately depends on your budget and preference for time spent traveling.
The prices of bus tickets between Appleton and Chicago can range from $22 to $111. This price range depends on factors such as the bus company, travel dates, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different bus companies to find the best deal for your travel.
To get from Chicago to Appleton without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 194 miles and it takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes. The cost of driving from Chicago to Appleton by car ranges from $35 to $55, depending on factors like fuel consumption and toll fees.
To travel from Chicago to Appleton without a car, the best option is to take a train and then a bus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes and the cost can range from $15 to $150 depending on the booking and class. This is a convenient and affordable way to reach Appleton from Chicago without the need for a personal vehicle.
Yes, there is a link between Chicago and Appleton but there is no direct bus service. However, you can take a train from Chicago Train Station to Milwaukee - Amtrak and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Appleton Amtrak Station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Amtrak Thruway.
The flight duration between Chicago and Appleton is approximately 1 hour. This is for the quickest direct flight available from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Appleton Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $124 to $421, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of deals or discounts. It is advisable to check with different airlines and use various online travel platforms to find the most affordable and suitable flight options.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Appleton. With over 92 hotels to choose from, you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Prices start at $43, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. From luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, Appleton has a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs and preferences.
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