- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
Lakefront art museum known for its Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion and strong collections of American and decorative arts.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$27
Average price
$38
Fastest journey
1 h 20 m
Average duration
1 h 39 m
Buses per day
11
Distance
134 km
Cheap tickets
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 $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.
Fast buses
Of the 11 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Milwaukee, WI on Fri, Jul 10, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct buses cover the 134 km distance in an average of 1 h 39 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 20 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 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.
FlixBus12:00 PM1h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:50 PMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$271One-way0 transfers- FlixBus4:30 PM2h15Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:45 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$271One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus12:00 PM2h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:10 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$271One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus4:30 PM1h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:25 PMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$271One-way0 transfers
3:00 PM1h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station4:50 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$281One-way0 transfers
- 7:10 AM1h20Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL8:30 AMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$521One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:00 AM1h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:35 AMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$311One-way0 transfers
- 12:30 AM1h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:10 AMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$671One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus12:00 PM1h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:50 PMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$271One-way0 transfers
- 10:00 PM1h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:50 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$451One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI
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 train with prices starting from $23. 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 train costs an average of $23, and a bus costs an average of $20.
Distance: 83 miles (134 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$30 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $22 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI is a train with an average price of $28 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI:
A train is $2 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $30 (€25).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI is by train with an average journey time of 1h 41m.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -12m sooner (1h 45m by bus vs 1h 33m by car) and save roughly $-8.64 (€-7.09) compared to fuel and tolls ($30 (€25) vs $22 (€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.
Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI Bus Timetables
| 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, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:35AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $18 |
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 $20 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI buses for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 12:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2h10 | 2:10 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 12:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h50 | 1:50 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h50 | 4:50 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 | |
| FlixBus | 4:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2h15 | 6:45 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1h50 | 11:50 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 10 | |||||
| 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 | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI by train or bus
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Why should you book Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
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 $20 (€17) 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.
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 83 miles (134 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€17) |
Buses per day 12 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 1h 30m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 42 days |
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: FlixBus, Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WIYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $20 (€17). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€17)
FlixBus frequency
7 a day
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.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Greyhound frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Milwaukee
Things to do in Milwaukee
Discover the best of Milwaukee — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milwaukee trip today.
- Must visit
Harley-Davidson Museum
Major museum tracing the history, design, and cultural impact of Harley-Davidson motorcycles through iconic bikes and exhibits.
- Recommended
Discovery World
Science and technology museum on the waterfront with hands-on exhibits, Great Lakes content, and an aquarium.
- Must visit
Historic Third Ward
Trendy warehouse district known for shopping, galleries, public market surroundings, and some of the city's most photogenic streets.
- Must visit
Milwaukee RiverWalk
Popular pedestrian route along the river linking downtown neighborhoods, public art, and many of the city's signature views.
- Recommended
Lakefront Trail
Scenic walking and cycling corridor with Lake Michigan views, beaches, parks, and easy access to key attractions.
Beer Bratwurst
A Milwaukee classic: bratwurst simmered in beer and onions, then grilled. It reflects the city’s strong German heritage and beer culture.
Friday Fish Fry
A beloved Wisconsin tradition of battered or breaded fish, often perch or cod, served with sides like coleslaw, rye bread, and potato pancakes.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Curds
Fresh Wisconsin cheese curds, often beer-battered and fried. They are a signature local snack tied to the state’s dairy identity.
The Five O'Clock Steakhouse
Classic steakhouse with old-school supper club charm, known for steaks, cocktails, and a long-established local reputation.
Bacchus
Upscale fine-dining restaurant with refined American cuisine, strong wine service, and lakefront views suited to special occasions.
Lakefront Brewery
Popular brewery and restaurant famous for beer, cheese curds, and a classic Friday fish fry in a lively riverfront setting.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Casual food and drinks are reasonable, while downtown hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI can start from as little as $20 (€17) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI is $30 (€25) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI is 1h 30m to travel the 83 miles (134 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 12 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Milwaukee, WI. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Milwaukee, WI from Chicago, IL is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Milwaukee, WI are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Milwaukee, WI, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like festivals and public transit. Avoid displaying valuables openly and stay aware of your surroundings. Common scams include overcharging by taxi or rideshare drivers and fake ticket sales for events. It’s advisable to use reputable transportation services and purchase tickets from official sources. Staying in well-lit, populated areas at night enhances safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Milwaukee, WI and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Milwaukee, WI
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