Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL bus with Amtrak

Tue, Nov 25
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Amtrak
FlixBus
Alsa
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Rede Expressos
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Amtrak
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Nov 25

Cheapest price

$47

Average price

$62

Fastest journey

4 h 30 m

Average duration

5 h 35 m

Buses per day

2

Distance

275 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.

Fast buses

Of the 2 buses that leave Appleton, WI for Chicago, IL on Tue, Nov 25, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Nov 25 the direct buses cover the 275 km distance in an average of 5 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 30 m .

On Tue, Nov 25 the slowest buses will take 6 h 39 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

FlixBusFlixBus
09:30AM4h30
Appleton, Transit Center
02:00PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$471One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak7338 AMTRAK · 338 Hiawatha Service
10:05AM6h39
Appleton, WI
04:44PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$771One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €24, and a flight costs an average of €229.

Distance: 170 miles (275 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight

€39

Average price

Cheapest

€276

Average price

4h 31m

Average total duration

4h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 21m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:30AM
Arrival Time
02:00PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$47
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
10:05AM
Arrival Time
04:44PM
Duration
6h39
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$70

Live departures

Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL bus times

The table below shows live departures for Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 3:29 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
meinfernbus_flixbus2:30 PM Appleton, WI
4h30
7:00 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbus2:45 PM Appleton, WI
4h15
7:00 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL by bus or flight

Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Tue
Nov 25
Wed
Nov 26
Thu
Nov 27
Fri
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL

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Icon of bus

Buses from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 05:31, the last at 17:08. The fastest bus covers the 170 miles (275 km) distance in 4h 15m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
170 miles (275 km)
Average bus duration
4h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€24)
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
4h 15m
First bus
05:31
Last bus
17:08

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL start from as low as $29 (€24) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $48 (€39) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 4 daily trains from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL with 0 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 4h 15m but the average duration is 4h 1m
Train Operators
  • Travel from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL with Amtrak and FlixBus
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Amtrak.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from Appleton, Transit Center and arrive in Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
  • First train typically departs at 05:31 AM and the last at 05:08 PM
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Bus providers: Amtrak, FlixBus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL with Amtrak, FlixBus for as low as $29 (€24). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 16m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

FAQs: Bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $59 (€48) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL is $66 (€54); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL bus travel time is 4 h 3 min   for the 171 mile (275 km) long route, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 5: 31AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 5: 08PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Amtrak. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Take the Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL bus with Amtrak. However, it's always good to check out all possible bus companies for the trip to Chicago, IL from Appleton, WI as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Appleton, WI is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 3 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL is November.
Yes, you can take a bus to Chicago, IL from Appleton, WI.
No, the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
  • Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
  • Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
  • Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
  • Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
  • Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. Rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
  • Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
  • Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
  • Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
  • Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
  • Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U. S. Offering free admission.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL.
    No, luggage for the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Appleton, WI to Chicago, IL

    Appleton
    Chicago
    The major bus station for departures in Appleton is Appleton, Transit Center. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Appleton, Transit Center for your trip from Appleton to Chicago.
    Appleton, Transit Center
    information

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