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Milwaukee, WI, USA to La Crosse, WI, USA from $8: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Milwaukee to La Crosse: 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 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Milwaukee to La Crosse 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  19m
Estimated price
$8-110
Recommended
route map
Distance: 283 km
Duration: 3h 19m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  31m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$40-100
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  16m
Estimated price
$283-528
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  24m
Estimated price
$285-80
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Milwaukee to La Crosse

This journey takes you from the bustling urban vibes of Milwaukee, filled with vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions, to the scenic beauty of La Crosse, where you can immerse yourself in outdoor adventures and stunning river views.

Best Neighbourhoods in La Crosse

La Crosse features a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown La Crosse
• Bustling with shops and eateries.
• Hosts seasonal festivals and events.
North La Crosse
• Known for scenic parks and trails.
• Offers a family-friendly atmosphere.
South La Crosse
• Features beautiful views of the Mississippi River.
• Home to vibrant arts and cultural scene.

Best Times To Visit La Crosse's Attractions

Maximize your La Crosse experience by timing your visits to key attractions.

Grandad Bluff
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Riverside Park
Weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere to enjoy walks and picnics.
La Crosse Queen Cruises
Opt for sunset cruises to avoid daytime crowds and enjoy beautiful scenery.

La Crosse Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

La Crosse experiences a humid continental climate, bringing warm summers and cold winters, which can impact your travel plans significantly. The best times to visit are spring and early fall, when mild temperatures enhance your enjoyment of outdoor activities and festivals.

Dining in La Crosse: A Flavorful Difference

Try the fresh walleye prepared in a local restaurant along the Mississippi River, which showcases the area's commitment to utilizing seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. This dining experience offers a laid-back atmosphere with scenic views, providing a refreshing contrast to the vibrant, urban culinary scene you find in Milwaukee.

Milwaukee - La Crosse operators

Explore transport companies operating between Milwaukee and La Crosse, 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 Milwaukee to La Crosse

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
$8-110
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
https://www.jeffersonlines.com

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

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$40-100
Contact phone
+1 262-671-2538
Website
https://www.coachusa.com

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

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$1104-1105
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

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

Average Duration
5h 16m
Estimated price
$283-528

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

Average Duration
5h 16m
Estimated price
$81-85

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

Traveling between Milwaukee and La Crosse 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 La Crosse, covering a distance of 212 miles through charming Wisconsin landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely drive lasting around 3 hours and 31 minutes, allowing for plenty of scenic stops along the way. 💰 Explore flexible pricing options ranging from $35 to $60 for the journey by car from Milwaukee to La Crosse, providing budget-friendly choices for travelers. Plan your trip accordingly to accommodate your preferred travel budget and make the most out of your road trip experience.
Average price
$35 - $60
🌲 The picturesque route spans 196 miles and takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes to reach La Crosse from Milwaukee. Passengers can relax and enjoy the views as they make their way towards their destination. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the Milwaukee to La Crosse train ride can range from $8 to $110, making it an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore the charming city of La Crosse.
Departure Point
Milwaukee station
Arrival Point
La Crosse station
🛫 Traveling from Milwaukee to La Crosse by plane involves a journey with a total duration of approximately 4 hours and 28 minutes, with one layover along the way. 💸 The cost of flights between Milwaukee and La Crosse can range from $283 to $528, providing various price options for travelers to consider when planning their journey.
Departure Point
Milwaukee Airport
Arrival Point
La Crosse Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 28m and has one stopover
🚌 The journey from Milwaukee to La Crosse by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes with services departing three times a day. 🕒 🚌 The bus route covers a distance of 222 miles and is operated by Jefferson Lines, departing from Milwaukee - Amtrak station and arriving at La Crosse station. 💼 🚌 Travelers can expect a comfortable ride with prices ranging from $40 to $100 for the Milwaukee to La Crosse bus trip. 🎫
Departure Point
Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak station
Arrival Point
La Crosse, WI station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to arrive at the Milwaukee Amtrak Station at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure you have enough time to check in and find your bus, especially since Jefferson Lines carries a good amount of passengers making it busy at peak times.
• During your travel, take advantage of the scenic views along Highway 94; the bus will pass through beautiful landscapes including the Mississippi River region and small charming towns, so have your camera ready.
• Upon arrival at the La Crosse station, head to the waiting area first to check the real-time schedule for local transportation options, as there are buses, taxis, and rideshares available to help you get to your final destination conveniently.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Milwaukee and La Crosse is approximately 176 miles. By train, it typically takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes to travel from Milwaukee to La Crosse. If you prefer to fly, the journey takes about 5 hours and 35 minutes. By car, the travel time is around 3 hours and 31 minutes, while taking the bus can take approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. These times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
To travel from Milwaukee to La Crosse in a cost-effective manner, taking the train is the best option, with fares ranging from $8 to $110. Not only is it the cheapest option, but it is also the quickest, with a travel time of 3 hours and 19 minutes. By choosing the train, travelers can save both money and time, making it an ideal choice for this journey.
The prices for a train journey from Milwaukee to La Crosse range from $8 to $110, depending on the type of ticket and class. Similarly, the prices for a bus trip from La Crosse to Milwaukee also vary, with fares ranging between $40 and $100. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation companies for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information before planning your trip.
To get from Milwaukee to La Crosse without using public transportation, driving is the most convenient option. The distance between the two cities is about 212 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 31 minutes to drive. The car rental prices in this route may vary from $35 to $60, depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle chosen.
To travel from Milwaukee to La Crosse without a car, the best option would be to take the train. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes and the ticket prices range from $8 to $110. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $40 to $100. Lastly, flying is another possibility, but it takes longer at 5 hours and 35 minutes and prices vary between $280 to $410. Overall, taking the train offers the fastest and possibly more affordable option for traveling from Milwaukee to La Crosse.
Yes, there is a direct link between Milwaukee and La Crosse. You can travel by train with Amtrak, which departs five times a day and takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus operated by Jefferson Lines, which departs three times a day and has a travel time of around 3 hours and 40 minutes. Both options provide convenient and direct transportation between the two cities.
The flight between Milwaukee and La Crosse typically takes around 4 hours and 35 minutes with one stopover. The prices for this flight can range from $283 to $408. Once you arrive at the Milwaukee Airport, the best way to get to La Crosse is to take a bus which takes approximately 25 minutes and costs $3.
There are many options for accommodation near La Crosse with a range of prices to suit different budgets. There are 37+ hotels available in the area, starting at a very affordable $41 per night. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly motel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, you will have plenty of choices when it comes to finding a place to stay near La Crosse.

Trips from Milwaukee