Milwaukee, WI, USA to Rapid City, SD, USA from $100: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$100 - Train, BusBest price

1246 kmDistance

5h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

This journey from Milwaukee to Rapid City offers you a striking contrast between the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Milwaukee and the serene, open landscapes surrounding Rapid City.

Best Neighbourhoods in Rapid City

Rapid City features diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience.

Downtown Rapid City

• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and public murals.

• Numerous dining options featuring local cuisine.

West Boulevard

• Historic homes showcasing beautiful architecture.

• Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for leisurely strolls.

Canyon Lake

• Scenic park with stunning views and walking trails.

• Popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Rapid City's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Rapid City's top spots.

Mount Rushmore

Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning lighting.

Badlands National Park

Plan your trip in spring or fall to enjoy mild weather and fewer visitors.

Dinosaur Park

Weekdays in spring and early summer offer a quieter experience with great views.

Rapid City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Rapid City experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers and cold winters. Spring and early fall often provide the most enjoyable weather for outdoor activities, enhancing your travel experience significantly.

Dining Recommendation in Rapid City

Try the bison burger at Firehouse Brewing Company; it showcases local ingredients and offers a rich, hearty flavor that sets it apart from Milwaukee's iconic cheese curds and bratwurst. The brewery’s lively atmosphere, steeped in history, adds a unique charm that enhances the dining experience.

Milwaukee - Rapid City operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

aa.com

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration

5h 8m

Estimated price

$5879-1003

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration

8h 24m

Estimated price

$5879-1003

Website

delta.com

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration

5h 57m

Estimated price

$1007-5876

Website

united.com

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Rapid City (RAP)

Average Duration

5h 51m

Estimated price

$5879-1000

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Milwaukee to St. Paul-Minneapolis

Average Duration

6h 11m

Estimated price

$3557-3553

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 262-671-2538

Website

coachusa.com

Bus from Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration

1h 50m

Estimated price

$5400-5401

Contact phone

+1 414-266-4409

Website

badgerbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee Intermodal to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$5402-1736

Contact phone

+1-858-800-8898

Website

jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Depot to Rapid City, SD

Average Duration

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee to Minneapolis Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 10m

Estimated price

$35540-100

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

Traveling between Milwaukee and Rapid 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Milwaukee to Rapid City spanning 845 miles of diverse landscapes and charming small towns along the route. ⛽ Along the journey, anticipate spending between $150 to $230 on gas and tolls, making it a budget-friendly adventure with opportunities to explore local eateries and attractions. 🏞️ Arrive in Rapid City after approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes of driving, ready to discover the natural beauty of the Black Hills, visit Mount Rushmore, and delve into the region's rich history and culture.

Average price

$150 - $230

🛫 Traveling from Milwaukee to Rapid City by plane involves a journey that typically includes one stopover. The quickest route takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes. ✈️ Airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines operate flights between Milwaukee Airport and Rapid City Airport. The total travel time from Milwaukee to Rapid City by plane is around 6 hours and 26 minutes.

Departure Point

Milwaukee Airport

Arrival Point

Rapid City Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 8m and has one stopover

🚌 Embark on a bus journey from Milwaukee to Rapid City, with a scenic route involving a transfer at Minneapolis Bus Depot. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 20 hours and 2 minutes. 💰 Bus ticket prices from Milwaukee to Rapid City can range from $116 to $319, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore South Dakota from Wisconsin by road.

Departure Point

Milwaukee station

Arrival Point

Rapid City, SD station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Milwaukee and Rapid City is approximately 774 miles. If you choose to drive, it would take around 12 hours and 55 minutes to reach Rapid City from Milwaukee. Alternatively, you can opt for the train and bus combination, which takes approximately 19 hours and 48 minutes. If time is a concern, flying would be the fastest option, with a travel time of approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes. Lastly, taking a bus from Milwaukee to Rapid City would take around 19 hours and 47 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Milwaukee to Rapid City is to drive, with prices ranging from $150 to $230. This option takes approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to take a combination of bus and fly, which takes around 5 hours and 21 minutes and costs between $180 and $500. These transportation options provide both affordability and efficiency for travelers.

The prices of a bus ticket between Rapid City and Milwaukee can range from $116 to $319, depending on the specific bus company and the time of booking. It is advisable to compare prices and check for any discounts or promotions available. Additionally, prices may vary based on the class of accommodation or any additional services offered.

To travel from Milwaukee to Rapid City without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is 845 miles, and it takes approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes to drive. The prices for renting a car for this journey range from $150 to $230, depending on the rental company and vehicle type. Driving allows for flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views along the way.

The best way to travel from Milwaukee to Rapid City without a car is by bus. You can take a bus from Milwaukee to Rapid City via Minneapolis, which takes approximately 19 hours and 47 minutes. The cost of this bus journey ranges from $110 to $320. It is recommended to check the schedule and book your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

Yes, there is a link between Milwaukee and Rapid City but there is no direct bus service available. However, you can take a bus from Milwaukee to Minneapolis Bus Depot and then transfer to another bus that goes to Rapid City. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 19 hours and 47 minutes. This option provides a convenient way to travel between the two cities without having to drive or fly.

The flight duration between Milwaukee and Rapid City varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 24 minutes. As for the cost, prices for flights between the two cities typically range from $281 to $587. However, it's important to note that these prices may vary based on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Rapid City. With over 135 hotels available, you have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $32 per night, so you can find something to fit your budget. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a more affordable option, there are plenty of choices available for your stay near Rapid City.

Milwaukee, WI, USA to Rapid City, SD, USA from $100: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Milwaukee to Rapid City

Best Neighbourhoods in Rapid City

Best Times To Visit Rapid City's Attractions

Rapid City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Rapid City

Milwaukee - Rapid City operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Milwaukee

Trips to Rapid City

Popular routes