- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
Leading lakefront museum with strong decorative arts, American art, and iconic architecture. It is Milwaukee's signature cultural attraction.
Cheapest price
€20
Average price
€32
Fastest journey
1 h 20 m
Average duration
1 h 38 m
Buses per day
11
Distance
134 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI will cost around €32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €20.
Of the 11 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Milwaukee, WI on Mon, Aug 24, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 24 the direct buses cover the 134 km distance in an average of 1 h 38 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 20 m .
On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest buses will take 1 h 50 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.
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus

FlixBus
FlixBus
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €12, and a train costs an average of €19.
Distance: 83 miles (134 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€20 Average price Cheapest | €22 Average price | €18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 15m Average total duration 1h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 11m Average total duration Fastest 1h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is €2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI costing on average €22.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 45m.
You'll arrive about -1h -12m sooner (1h 45m by bus vs 1h 33m by car) and save roughly €-1.87 compared to fuel and tolls (€20 vs €18). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by FlixBus, Greyhound.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €18 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:35AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €16 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €18 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €16 |
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI buses for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2h00 | 5:00 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2h15 | 6:45 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 4:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h55 | 6:25 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h50 | 11:50 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, August 24 | |||||
![]() | 12:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h40 | 2:10 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:35 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h55 | 8:30 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:10 AM Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL | 1h20 | 8:30 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h55 | 10:55 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h35 | 10:35 AM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 12:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h45 | 1:45 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 12:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2h05 | 2:05 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus 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.
Buses from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €12 if you book in advance.
There are 12 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 83 miles (134 km) distance in 1h 30m.
Distance 83 miles (134 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price €12 |
Buses per day 12 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 1h 30m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Milwaukee, WI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milwaukee, WI trip today.
Leading lakefront museum with strong decorative arts, American art, and iconic architecture. It is Milwaukee's signature cultural attraction.
Science and technology museum with hands-on exhibits, a dome theater, and major industrial displays. Great for families and curious adults alike.
Large natural and human history museum with dinosaur fossils, the Streets of Old Milwaukee, and cultural collections. A classic city institution.
Revived historic warehouse district with boutiques, galleries, riverwalk access, and handsome architecture. Ideal for strolling and urban photography.
Scenic pedestrian route along the Milwaukee River linking downtown districts. It offers public art, bridges, and some of the city's best easy walks.
Large lakefront park with gardens, blufftop views, and access to North Point Lighthouse. A favorite for relaxing walks and skyline panoramas.
A bratwurst, often grilled and served with sauerkraut and mustard. Milwaukee's strong German heritage makes it one of the city's signature foods.
Beer-battered whitefish or perch, usually served with rye bread, slaw, and potato pancakes. A beloved Friday tradition tied to the city's Catholic and tavern culture.
Fresh cheese curds, often battered and fried. They reflect Wisconsin's dairy identity and are a staple snack in Milwaukee bars and restaurants.
Classic custard stand famed for fresh frozen custard and the Flavor of the Day. Casual, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in Milwaukee tradition.
Upscale supper club and seafood spot celebrated for its Friday fish fry, cocktails, and polished old-school Milwaukee atmosphere.
Traditional tavern and restaurant known for hearty German fare, sausages, and one of the city's classic Friday fish fry experiences.
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels are often cheaper than Chicago, dining is mid-priced, and local transit is limited so visitors may spend more on rideshares or parking.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Round up or tip about 10% for taxis. Cafes often use tip jars or screens; $1-2 or 10-15% is common.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI 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 Milwaukee, WI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Milwaukee, Intermodal Station station pair, with some services arriving at Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Fast food outlets are available.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago.
Available at Chicago: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station is 21 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station.
Available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station: Wheelchair accessible with elevator service.
Milwaukee, Intermodal Station is 1 km from Milwaukee city centre. Public transport options include:
Milwaukee, Intermodal Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafe and vending machines available.
Wi-Fi available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Ticket office support is available at Milwaukee, Intermodal Station.
Available at Milwaukee, Intermodal Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milwaukee, Intermodal Station: ADA compliant with elevators and ramps.
Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop) is 10 km from Milwaukee city centre. Public transport options include:
Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food options are available within the airport terminal.
Wi-Fi is available at Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop). ATMs are aTMs are available in the airport terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop).
Available at Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop): The station is accessible with facilities for disabled passengers.
Milwaukee has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Basic food and drink options are available.
Wi-Fi is available at Milwaukee. ATMs are available at Milwaukee.
Ticket office support is available at Milwaukee.
Available at Milwaukee: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milwaukee: The station is wheelchair accessible.
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