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La Crosse, WI, USA to Milwaukee, WI, USA from $8: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
La Crosse, United States of America
to
Milwaukee, United States of America

How to Get from La Crosse 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.

$8 by trainBest price
283 kmDistance
3h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from La Crosse 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
3h  20m
Estimated price
$8-110
Recommended
route map
Distance: 283 km
Duration: 3h 20m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  29m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
3h  50m
Estimated price
$40-100
Company
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
4h  11m
Estimated price
$153-505
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Traveling From La Crosse to Milwaukee

The journey from La Crosse to Milwaukee contrasts the serene, picturesque views of the Mississippi River Valley with the vibrant, urban energy of Wisconsin's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Milwaukee

Milwaukee boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Historic Third Ward
• Home to renowned art galleries and theaters.
• Vibrant nightlife with trendy bars and restaurants.
Bay View
• Eclectic shops and independent cafés abound.
• Scenic lakeside parks for outdoor fun.
Walker’s Point
• Diverse dining scene with acclaimed eateries.
• Rich in history, blending old and new architecture.

Best Times To Visit Milwaukee's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Milwaukee's attractions.

Milwaukee Art Museum
Visit on weekdays early in the morning for fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.
Lakefront Brewery
Join a Saturday afternoon tour for lively local vibes and fresh brews.
Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory
Explore during weekday mornings for a peaceful garden stroll and vibrant blooms.

Milwaukee Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Milwaukee experiences a typical Midwest climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers, making it ideal for seasonal activities. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, perfect for exploring the city comfortably.

Dining Recommendation

For a truly Milwaukee experience, try the iconic cheese curds at a local brewery like Milwaukee Ale House, where the lively atmosphere and bold flavors highlight Wisconsin's rich cheese-making tradition. This culinary adventure offers a sharp contrast to La Crosse's more traditional Midwestern fare, showcasing local ingredients in a vibrant setting.

La Crosse - Milwaukee operators

Explore transport companies operating between La Crosse 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 La Crosse to Milwaukee

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$8-110
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$40-100
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from La Crosse (LSE) to Milwaukee (MKE)

Average Duration
4h 11m
Estimated price
$153-505
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from La Crosse to Milwaukee

Average Duration
3h 29m
Estimated price
$35-60

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

Traveling between La Crosse 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 journey from La Crosse to Milwaukee, covering a distance of 211 miles across the beauty of Wisconsin's landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $35 to $60 for the trip from La Crosse to Milwaukee by car. Whether you opt for a quick getaway or a more relaxed road trip, there are affordable choices to suit your travel preferences.
Average price
$35 - $60
🚆 Traveling by train from La Crosse to Milwaukee is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct train service operates five times a day, taking approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the La Crosse to Milwaukee train range from $8 to $110, making it an affordable option for transportation between these two Wisconsin cities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the smooth ride on this scenic train journey.
Departure Point
La Crosse station
Arrival Point
Milwaukee station
Useful tips for train travellers
• For your train trip from La Crosse to Milwaukee, Amtrak offers onboard catering services through their Café Car. You can enjoy snacks, beverages, and light meals, including items like sandwiches, chips, and gourmet coffee. It's a good idea to bring cash or a credit card, as payment options may vary.
• Amtrak’s trains on this route typically provide three seating options: Business Class, where you can enjoy more spacious seating and complimentary snacks; Coach Class, which is the more budget-friendly option; and First Class, which features larger seats and premium services. If comfort is a priority, consider upgrading to Business Class for a more pleasant journey.
• The main operator for the La Crosse to Milwaukee route is Amtrak. You can book your tickets and find additional information on their website at amtrak.com Additionally, check out local transportation options at Milwaukee's Amtrak station through the Milwaukee County Transit System at ridemcts.com
🛫 Traveling from La Crosse to Milwaukee by plane requires a stopover as there are no direct flights between the two cities. The quickest flight with one stop takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. ✈️ American Airlines provides flights from La Crosse Airport to Milwaukee Airport, making it convenient to reach your destination. The total duration of the journey by air is around 4 hours and 11 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Milwaukee and La Crosse range from $153 to $505, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Plan your trip efficiently and enjoy the scenic journey from one Wisconsin city to another.
Departure Point
La Crosse Airport
Arrival Point
Milwaukee Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 19m and has one stopover
🚌 The journey from La Crosse to Milwaukee by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. Services operate three times a day, providing convenient options for travelers. 🚌 Travelers can expect ticket prices for the La Crosse to Milwaukee bus to range from $40 to $100, making it an affordable and accessible choice for those looking to explore these two Wisconsin cities.
Departure Point
La Crosse, WI station
Arrival Point
Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider checking Jefferson Lines' schedule and booking your tickets in advance to secure the best prices, especially during peak travel times; you can find the schedule and book tickets at their website: jeffersonlines.com
• Bring along snacks and water, as the bus ride from La Crosse to Milwaukee runs for nearly 4 hours, and there may be limited opportunities to purchase food along the way unless your bus has scheduled stops; plan accordingly, and pack something that doesn't require refrigeration.
• Upon arriving at the Milwaukee Amtrak station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the station layout by checking the Amtrak station map available at amtrak.com this will help you easily locate amenities such as restrooms, waiting areas, and public transportation options like city buses and taxis.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from La Crosse to Milwaukee.

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The distance between La Crosse and Milwaukee is 176 miles by air, and the road distance is 211 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes to reach Milwaukee from La Crosse. By flying to Chicago O'Hare and then taking a bus, it takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, by car it takes about 3 hours and 29 minutes, and by bus it takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes to travel between the two cities.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from La Crosse to Milwaukee is by train. It costs between $8 to $110 and takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. This is both the cheapest and quickest way to reach your destination, allowing you to save money and time compared to other modes of transportation such as flying or driving.
The prices of a train ticket between La Crosse and Milwaukee can range from $8 to $110, depending on factors such as class, time of travel, and availability. Similarly, the prices of a bus ticket between Milwaukee and La Crosse can vary from $40 to $100, depending on the bus company, departure time, and demand. It is recommended to compare prices and book tickets in advance to secure the best deals for your journey.
To travel from La Crosse to Milwaukee without using public transportation, you can drive the 211-mile distance. It takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes to drive from La Crosse to Milwaukee. The cost of driving can vary from $35 to $60, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from La Crosse to Milwaukee without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes and costs between $8 and $110. Another option is to take a bus, which takes slightly longer at 3 hours and 50 minutes, and costs between $40 and $100. Alternatively, you could choose to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $280 and $420.
Yes, there are direct transportation options available between La Crosse and Milwaukee. Amtrak operates a direct train service that departs from La Crosse and arrives in Milwaukee, with a travel time of approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. Additionally, Jefferson Lines operates direct bus services between the two cities, with a journey time of around 3 hours and 50 minutes. Both train and bus services operate daily, providing convenient options for travel between La Crosse and Milwaukee.
The flight between La Crosse and Milwaukee typically takes around 3 hours and 33 minutes with one stopover. The prices for flights between the two cities can vary, but they generally range from $283 to $415. It is important to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deal and most convenient flight options for your travel.
There are numerous hotels available near Milwaukee with over 238 options to choose from. Prices for accommodations start at $50 per night, allowing for a range of budgets. Travelers can easily find a suitable hotel based on their preferences and needs, whether it be a budget-friendly option or a more luxurious stay.

Trips to Milwaukee