1map logoGo to main page

Jefferson City, MO, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $79: 1 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Jefferson City, United States of America
to
Madison, United States of America

How to Get from Jefferson City to Madison: 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.

$79 by busBest price
0 kmDistance
3h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Jefferson City to Madison 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
Various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$79-79
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 0 km
Duration: 3h 30m

Traveling From Jefferson City to Madison

Your journey from Jefferson City to Madison showcases a transition from the tranquil charm of Missouri's capital to the vibrant energy of Wisconsin's bustling college town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

Madison features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Downtown Madison
• Home to bustling shops and restaurants.
• Close to the State Capitol and University events.
University Heights
• Residential area with historic homes.
• Proximity to the University of Wisconsin campus.
Capitol East District
• Up-and-coming area with innovative eateries.
• Events and activities for vibrant community engagement.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Timing your visits to Madison's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Wisconsin State Capitol
Visit early on weekdays for fewer crowds and guided tours.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Spring mornings offer blooming flowers and serene strolls without many visitors.
Lake Monona
Visit during sunrise for peaceful views and fewer people on the trails.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters influencing your travel plans significantly. Spring and fall provide mild temperatures that make outdoor exploration enjoyable, while the snowy winters can enhance winter sports and holiday festivities.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

Try the famous cheese curds at The Old Fashioned, where the lively atmosphere and focus on local ingredients create a dining experience that’s distinctly different from Jefferson City's offerings. The bold flavors and unique pairing of regional dishes here reflect Madison's vibrant culinary scene, showcasing an appreciation for Wisconsin's rich agricultural heritage.

Jefferson City - Madison operators

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

all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Jefferson City to Madison

Average Duration
Estimated price
79-79

Jefferson City to Madison: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Jefferson City and Madison 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Jefferson City to Madison, be aware that Amtrak is the primary operator for this route. Onboard services include a café car with a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals available for purchase. You can enjoy options like sandwiches, salads, and warm meals depending on the time of day.
• Amtrak offers several seating options for this journey. You can choose from Coach Class, which provides comfortable seating with basic amenities, or upgrade to Business Class for more spacious seating and additional perks like complimentary snacks and beverages. Note that upgrades can often be purchased at the station or during your booking for a better travel experience.
• Upon arrival at the Madison train station, be prepared that it is a smaller facility. You can leave your luggage at the station's baggage service area if you wish to explore the city briefly after arriving. The station provides clean restrooms, but there are no shower facilities available. To get to the city center, take the Route 5 bus heading to Downtown, which runs frequently, providing a quick connection to local attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Jefferson City to Madison.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Jefferson City and Madison is approximately 300 miles. By car, the journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If traveling by bus, you can expect a travel time of about 7 to 9 hours, as buses often have scheduled stops. For a quicker option, flying is possible, but you would need to consider additional time for airport transfers, security, and potential layovers, making the total travel time variable.
The most cost-effective transportation option from Jefferson City to Madison is typically by bus, as it offers affordable fares compared to flying or driving. While the bus may take longer than driving directly, it can save on costs like gas and tolls. Alternatively, if you can find a good deal on flights, flying could be a time-efficient option, though it will include additional airport-related time. Carpooling or ridesharing can also be a balance of time efficiency and cost, especially if traveling with multiple people to split expenses.
Travel prices from Jefferson City to Madison can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation. Bus tickets generally range from $30 to $70, depending on the service provider and how far in advance you book. If opting to fly, fares can fluctuate widely, usually costing anywhere from $100 to $300, with additional fees for luggage and other services. Driving your own vehicle may incur expenses such as gas and tolls, which can amount to about $50 to $80 for the trip, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
To travel from Jefferson City to Madison without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car. It's a straightforward drive along major highways, which typically takes about 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, you could arrange a ride with a friend or family member who is willing to make the trip with you. Another option is to consider carpool services or rideshare apps where you might find someone going in the same direction.
If you want to travel from Jefferson City to Madison without a car, you can consider using a rideshare service. Services like Uber or Lyft may offer long-distance rides, depending on driver availability. Additionally, you could look into booking a private shuttle or van service that operates between the two cities. Finally, finding someone with a vehicle who is willing to take you along in exchange for gas money could also be a convenient option.
There is no direct public transportation link, such as a train or direct bus service, between Jefferson City and Madison. However, you can find bus services that connect through larger cities, such as St. Louis or Chicago, which would require transfers. Alternatively, local shuttle services or rideshare options may offer more direct routes, but they typically require prior arrangements. It's advisable to check schedules and services in advance to plan your journey effectively.
There are no direct flights between Jefferson City and Madison as Jefferson City does not have a commercial airport. The nearest major airport is in Columbia which is about 30 minutes away, or you can fly from St. Louis. Typically, a connecting flight from the nearest airport can take around 3 to 5 hours, including layover time. The cost of a round-trip ticket can vary widely, typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the time of booking and travel dates.
Madison offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. For a central experience, you can stay at hotels like the Hilton Madison Monona Terrace or the Hyatt Place Madison, which are both close to the downtown area and major attractions. If you prefer a cozier atmosphere, consider boutique hotels like the Graduate Madison or Airbnb rentals in the nearby neighborhoods. Additionally, there are budget-friendly options such as motels and chain hotels located just outside the city, providing easy access to Madison.

Trips to Madison