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Wausau, WI, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $26: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Wausau, United States of America
to
Madison, United States of America

How to Get from Wausau 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.

$26 - OtherBest price
232 kmDistance
2h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Wausau 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
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  27m
Estimated price
$26-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 232 km
Duration: 2h 27m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  27m
Estimated price
$26-40

Traveling From Wausau to Madison

The journey from Wausau to Madison offers a stark contrast, with Wausau's serene natural landscapes and cozy small-town charm giving way to Madison's vibrant urban atmosphere, lively culture, and diverse dining scene.

Best Neighborhoods in Madison

Madison boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive charm.

Downtown Madison
• Home to shops, restaurants, and local events.
• Stunning views of Lake Monona and the State Capitol.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Vibrant college atmosphere with cultural activities.
• Many parks and green spaces for relaxation.
Monona Terrace
• Iconic architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright.
• Scenic waterfront with recreational options.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Exploring Madison's attractions is best done with a little planning.

Wisconsin State Capitol
Visit early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Weekdays in late spring or early fall provide beautiful blooms and fewer visitors.
Monona Terrace
Check out the terrace at sunset for stunning views without large crowds.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, making late spring and early fall the ideal times to enjoy outdoor activities. Knowing the weather patterns can enhance your travel experience, helping you pack appropriately and plan activities catered to each season.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

A visit to Madison isn't complete without trying the famous cheese curds at The Old Fashioned, where local Wisconsin ingredients create bold flavors in a lively atmosphere. This culinary experience contrasts with Wausau's comforting fare by embracing the innovative spirit of Madison's farm-to-table movement, offering a vibrant taste of the region.

Wausau - Madison operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Wausau Amtrak Bus Stop to Madison

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between Wausau 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Wausau to Madison, covering a distance of 144 miles in approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Wisconsin as you cruise towards the state capital. 💸 Cost-effective travel options abound, with prices ranging from $26 to $40 for the road trip from Wausau to Madison by car. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your travel experience without breaking the bank.
Average price
$26 - $40
🚂 Experience a comfortable train journey from Wausau to Madison lasting around 3 hours and covering a distance of 147 miles. Board the bus towards Janesville for a smooth transit. 🌆 Enjoy the scenic views along the way as you approach Madison, a vibrant city with plenty to offer. Your bus from Janesville will take you to either 250 N. Lake St on the Madison UW Campus or 4545 E Broadway at Dutch Mill Park and Ride, depending on the route chosen. 🚌 Consider booking with Megabus for a convenient and reliable travel experience. Whether you opt for Route 1 or Route 2, your journey from Wausau to Madison promises to be a delightful adventure through the heart of Wisconsin.
🚌 The journey from Wausau to Madison by bus takes approximately 3 hours. The direct bus service, operated by Amtrak, departs once daily from Wausau Amtrak Bus Stop to Madison station. 🌆 Route 1 covers a distance of 147 miles and takes about 3 hours 8 minutes to reach Madison. The bus towards Janesville departs from Wausau and arrives at 250 N. Lake St in Madison UW Campus via Megabus. 🛤️ For Route 3, covering a distance of 300 miles, there is a transfer involved. The first bus towards Milwaukee takes around 4 hours 15 minutes. Then, a second bus towards Madison, operated by Badger Bus, completes the journey in about 1 hour 35 minutes.
Departure Point
Wausau Amtrak Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Madison station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Wausau to Madison.

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The distance between Wausau and Madison is approximately 132 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 144 miles. If you choose to drive, it typically takes around 2 hours and 27 minutes to travel from Madison to Wausau. Alternatively, taking a bus from Wausau to Madison generally takes around 3 hours.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Wausau to Madison is by driving. The road distance is approximately 144 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 27 minutes to reach Madison from Wausau by car. The cost of driving is estimated to be around $26 to $40. Other modes of transportation like buses may be cheaper, but they tend to take longer, with a travel time of around 3 hours. Therefore, driving is the recommended option for this journey.
To get from Wausau to Madison without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 144 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 27 minutes to drive. The prices for getting from Wausau to Madison by car range from $26 to $40, depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and tolls.
The best way to travel from Wausau to Madison without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours. There are several bus companies that operate this route, offering a convenient and affordable option for transportation. The cost of the bus ticket may vary depending on the company and the time of travel.
Yes, there is a direct link between Wausau and Madison by bus. The bus service, operated by Amtrak, departs from Wausau Amtrak Bus Stop and arrives at Madison. There is one bus that departs daily and the journey takes approximately 3 hours. This direct link provides a convenient and reliable mode of transportation between the two cities.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Madison. With over 97 hotels to choose from, you can easily find a place that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $55 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of choices to consider for your stay near Madison.