Milwaukee, WI, USA to Traverse City, MI, USA from $24: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$24 by trainBest price

267 kmDistance

5h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Milwaukee to Traverse City 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 Milwaukee to Traverse City

Traveling from Milwaukee to Traverse City offers a striking contrast between the vibrant city life along Lake Michigan and the serene, nature-focused atmosphere of Michigan's wine country.

Best Neighbourhoods in Traverse City

Traverse City features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Traverse City

• Bustling shops and restaurants line the streets.

• Scenic views of Grand Traverse Bay are plentiful.

Old Mission Peninsula

• Home to picturesque vineyards and wineries.

• Offers stunning views of the bay and sunsets.

Historic District

• Rich in architectural history and charm.

• Close proximity to parks and local art galleries.

Best Times To Visit Traverse City's Attractions

Timing your visit to Traverse City's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Visit in late spring or early fall for tranquil trails and fewer visitors.

Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula

Weekdays during harvest season offer quieter tastings and beautiful views.

Downtown Traverse City

Morning hours during the weekdays provide a relaxed atmosphere for exploring.

Traverse City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Traverse City experiences a four-season climate, with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and snowy winters ideal for cozy retreats. The best times to visit are spring and fall, where you can enjoy mild temperatures and stunning natural scenery without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Traverse City

Try the cherry BBQ ribs at the Boathouse Restaurant, where the local cherry harvest transforms traditional barbecue into a delightful, sweet-savory experience. Unlike Milwaukee's renowned cheese curds and bratwurst, Traverse City's emphasis on fresh, local ingredients delivers a refreshing take on classic American flavors.

Milwaukee - Traverse City operators

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

Bus

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Kalamazoo, MI - Amtrak to Hall St Transfer Station - Traverse City

Average Duration

5h 20m

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from Milwaukee to Madison

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

+1 800-292-3831

Website

https://www.indiantrails.com/

Bus from Grand Rapids, MI to Traverse City, MI

Average Duration

Estimated price

$302-2258

Bus from Kalamazoo, MI to Traverse City, MI

Average Duration

5h 20m

Estimated price

$2251-243

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Milwaukee Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$420-303

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Kalamazoo Bus Stop

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

$2251-3095

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Milwaukee to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$300-244

Train from Chicago Union Station to Kalamazoo

Average Duration

2h 9m

Estimated price

$309-307

Train from Chicago Union Station to Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station

Average Duration

4h 4m

Estimated price

$2253-2742

Ferry

Contact phone

+1 866-914-1010

Website

https://lake-express.com/

Ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon

Average Duration

2h 30m

Estimated price

$2742-130

Plane

Website

https://aa.com/

Plane from Milwaukee (MKE) to Traverse City (TVC)

Average Duration

3h 12m

Estimated price

$2749-2743

Website

https://united.com/

Plane from Milwaukee (MKE) to Traverse City (TVC)

Average Duration

4h 14m

Estimated price

$246-247

Website

https://delta.com/

Plane from Milwaukee (MKE) to Traverse City (TVC)

Average Duration

4h 31m

Estimated price

$2747-248

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

Traveling between Milwaukee and Traverse City 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.

🛫 Flying from Milwaukee to Traverse City requires a connecting flight, as there are no direct options available. The quickest route with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes. 🌍 Airlines such as United, American, and Delta operate flights from Milwaukee Airport to Traverse City Airport. The total duration of the journey by plane is around 6 hours and 10 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Traverse City and Milwaukee typically range from $165 to $265, making it an accessible and convenient travel option for those looking to explore the beautiful city of Traverse City.

Departure Point

Milwaukee Airport

Arrival Point

Traverse City Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 12m and has one stopover

🚌 The trip from Milwaukee to Traverse City by bus involves a total travel time of approximately 12 hours and 10 minutes due to transfers in Chicago and Kalamazoo.

Departure Point

Milwaukee Bus Station

Arrival Point

Hall St Transfer Station - Traverse City

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Milwaukee to Traverse City.

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The distance between Milwaukee and Traverse City is 166 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By taking a train and then a bus, it takes approximately 11 hours and 33 minutes to reach Traverse City from Milwaukee. Alternatively, by plane, it takes around 6 hours and 25 minutes.

For a cost-effective option, taking a train and bus combination is the best choice, with prices ranging from $23 to $260 and a travel time of 11 hours and 33 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, taking a bus and then flying would be the fastest option, taking around 5 hours and 28 minutes, with prices ranging from $100 to $800. It's important to consider both cost and time when deciding on the best transportation option for your trip from Milwaukee to Traverse City.

The best way to travel from Milwaukee to Traverse City without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus. This journey takes approximately 11 hours and 33 minutes. The cost for this mode of transportation ranges from $23 to $260. It is recommended to check the schedule and fares before planning your trip.

There is no direct bus link between Milwaukee and Traverse City. However, there are alternatives available. You can take a bus from Milwaukee Bus Station to Chicago Train Station, then take a train to Kalamazoo and finally take another bus to Traverse City. The overall journey, including transfers, usually takes around 12 hours and 15 minutes. This option is operated by Greyhound USA and Amtrak.

The flight time between Milwaukee and Traverse City varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. However, please note that there are no direct flights between the two cities. The cost of a flight from Traverse City to Milwaukee ranges from $155 to $605, depending on factors such as the airline, booking time, and availability.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Traverse City. With over 328 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Traverse City start at $42, offering options for budget-conscious travelers. Visitors can select from a variety of hotels, resorts, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals to find the perfect place to stay during their visit to Traverse City.

Milwaukee, WI, USA to Traverse City, MI, USA from $24: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Milwaukee to Traverse City

Best Neighbourhoods in Traverse City

Best Times To Visit Traverse City's Attractions

Traverse City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Traverse City

Milwaukee - Traverse City operators

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

Frequently asked questions

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