- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
Major lakeside art museum known for its Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion and strong American and decorative arts collections.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI
Showing times and prices for Jun 17
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$124
Fastest journey
9 h 40 m
Average duration
10 h 42 m
Buses per day
10
Distance
533 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI will cost around $124 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.
Fast buses
Of the 10 buses that leave Columbus, OH for Milwaukee, WI on Wed, Jun 17, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 17 the direct buses cover the 533 km distance in an average of 10 h 42 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 40 m .
On Wed, Jun 17 the slowest buses will take 12 h 5 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.
FlixBus9:45 AM9h40Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:25 PMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$941One-way0 transfers- FlixBus9:45 AM10h00Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:45 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$941One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:30 PM12h05Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH10:35 AMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$1071One-way1 transfer
· +FlixBus11:50 PM12h05Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH10:55 AMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$1261One-way2 transfers- · +FlixBus11:50 PM11h45Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH10:35 AMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$1261One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus9:45 AM9h40Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:25 PMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$941One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:45 AM10h00Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:45 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$941One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus+11:30 PM10h00Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH8:30 AMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$1261One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus11:50 PM11h45Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH10:35 AMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$1261One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:30 PM12h05Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH10:35 AMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$1071One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 22m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, and a flight costs an average of $302.
Distance: 331 miles (533 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$99 Average price Cheapest | $320 Average price | $82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 50m Average total duration 9h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 22m Average total duration Fastest 5h 22m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI is a bus with an average price of $99 (€80).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is $221 (€179) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $320 (€260).
The fastest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 22m.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Milwaukee, WI including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH 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 -3h -15m sooner (9h 20m by bus vs 7h 5m by car) and save roughly $-17.57 (€-14.23) compared to fuel and tolls ($99 (€80) vs $82 (€66)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 13h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 17h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:50PM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $73 |
Live departures
Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI bus times
The table below shows live departures for Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI buses for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · +FlixBus | 4:40 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 13h05 | 4:45 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 2 transfers | |
| · +FlixBus | 4:40 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 13h25 | 5:05 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ | 5:20 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 14h25 | 6:45 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 5:20 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 14h05 | 6:25 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 1 transfer | |
| · · | 7:45 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 17h00 | 11:45 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus | 9:45 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 10h00 | 6:45 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 9:45 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 9h40 | 6:25 PM 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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI 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.
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Jun 17
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Why should you book Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
Buses from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI run on average 10 times per day, taking around 9h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $71 (€58) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:20, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 331 miles (533 km) distance in 9h 40m.
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 331 miles (533 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€58) |
Buses per day 10 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 40m |
First bus 3:20 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 7 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 from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WIYou can travel by bus between Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI with FlixBus for as low as $71 (€58). 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
9h 40m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€58)
FlixBus frequency
5 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.
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
Flagship museum telling the story of Harley-Davidson through historic motorcycles, engines, archives, and interactive exhibits.
- Recommended
Discovery World
Science and technology museum on the lakefront with hands-on exhibits, aquariums, and Great Lakes-focused displays.
- Must visit
Milwaukee RiverWalk
Signature pedestrian route along the Milwaukee River connecting downtown districts, public art, bars, and city views.
- Must visit
Historic Third Ward
Trendy historic warehouse district packed with boutiques, galleries, markets, and photogenic streets popular with visitors.
- Recommended
Lakefront Trail
Scenic walking and cycling path along Lake Michigan with beaches, parks, and classic skyline and water views.
Beer Bratwurst
A Milwaukee classic: bratwurst simmered in beer and onions, then grilled and served on a roll. It reflects the city’s strong German immigrant and brewing heritage.
Friday Fish Fry
A beloved Wisconsin tradition found across Milwaukee, usually featuring battered cod or perch with coleslaw, rye bread, and potato pancakes or fries.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Curds
Fresh or fried curds made from young cheddar cheese. They are one of Wisconsin’s most iconic snacks and a staple on Milwaukee menus and at beer halls.
Sanford
One of Milwaukee’s best-known fine dining restaurants, offering refined seasonal American cuisine in an intimate, polished setting.
Kopp's Frozen Custard
An iconic local stand celebrated for frozen custard and jumbo burgers. A must for a classic Milwaukee dessert stop with a long-standing local following.
Lakefront Brewery Beer Hall
Popular brewery and beer hall famous for fish fry, cheese curds, and local beer. Lively, casual atmosphere that captures Milwaukee’s brewing culture.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels vary by season, while casual dining, beer, and local transit are fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for cafes if desired.
FAQs: Bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI can start from as little as $71 (€58) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI is $99 (€80) ; 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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI is 9h 40m to travel the 331 miles (533 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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 3:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Milwaukee, WI. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Columbus, OH and Milwaukee, WI and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Milwaukee, WI from Columbus, OH is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Milwaukee, WI including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI:
- 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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Columbus, OH 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI
Columbus
Milwaukee
The major bus station for departures in Columbus is Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station) for your trip from Columbus to Milwaukee.
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Milwaukee is Milwaukee, Intermodal Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Milwaukee, Intermodal Station for your trip to Milwaukee from Columbus.
Milwaukee, Intermodal Station
information
Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop)
information
Most popular bus connections from Columbus, OH
More options for your journey from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Milwaukee, WI and Columbus, OH
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