- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
Iconic lakefront art museum known for its Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion and strong collections of American and decorative arts.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI
Showing times and prices for May 19
Cheapest price
$55
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
3 h 50 m
Average duration
3 h 50 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
282 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave La Crosse, WI for Milwaukee, WI on Tue, May 19, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 19 the direct buses cover the 282 km distance in an average of 3 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 50 m .
On Tue, May 19 the slowest buses will take 3 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.
7:30 PM3h50La Crosse, WI11:20 PMMilwaukee, WI$551One-way0 transfers- 8:30 PM3h50La Crosse, WI12:20 AMMilwaukee, WI$581One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM3h50La Crosse, WI12:20 AMMilwaukee, WI$581One-way0 transfers
- 7:30 PM3h50La Crosse, WI11:20 PMMilwaukee, WI$551One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $55, and a train costs an average of $26.
Distance: 175 miles (282 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$61 Average price Cheapest | $101 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration Fastest 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI is a bus with an average price of $61 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is $40 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $101 (€82).
The fastest way to travel from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI is by train with an average journey time of 3h 21m.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between La Crosse, WI and Milwaukee, WI including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from La Crosse, WI 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 -2h -13m sooner (4h 15m by bus vs 3h 2m by car) and save roughly $-17.22 (€-13.91) compared to fuel and tolls ($61 (€49) vs $44 (€35)). 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 Infobus, Jefferson Lines.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Jefferson Lines | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Live departures
La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI bus times
The table below shows live departures for La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI buses for today, Monday, May 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 2:55 PM La Crosse, WI | 3h45 | 6:40 PM Milwaukee, WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI by train or bus
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.
Tue
May 19
May 19
Wed
May 20
May 20
Thu
May 21
May 21
Fri
May 22
May 22
Sat
May 23
May 23
Sun
May 24
May 24
Mon
May 25
May 25
Why should you book La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI buses with Omio?
Infobus as well as Jefferson Lines offer buses services from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Infobus tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Infobus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Infobus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Jefferson Lines to find the best option for your trip from La Crosse, WI 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 Infobus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio over Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Official reseller: Infobus tickets can only be bought on Omio or Infobus's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Infobus tickets. Busbud or Checkmybus do not sell Infobus tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
Buses from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $55 (€44) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by train.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 08:50, the last at 16:00. The fastest bus covers the 175 miles (282 km) distance in 3h 50m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $26 (€21)
Distance 175 miles (282 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 (€44) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 3h 50m |
First bus 8:50 AM |
Last bus 4:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $26 (€21)
Bus providers: Infobus, Jefferson Lines from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WIYou can travel by bus between La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI with Infobus, Jefferson Lines for as low as $26 (€21). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€44)
Infobus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
Jefferson Lines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€70)
Jefferson Lines frequency
1 a day
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 industrial and cultural museum showcasing classic motorcycles, company history, and design heritage in a dramatic riverside campus.
- Recommended
Discovery World
Hands-on science and technology museum on the lakefront with freshwater, innovation, and Great Lakes exhibits popular with families.
- Must visit
Milwaukee RiverWalk
Signature pedestrian route along the Milwaukee River connecting downtown districts, public art, dining zones, and skyline views.
- Must visit
Historic Third Ward
Trendy warehouse district filled with restored architecture, boutiques, galleries, and one of the city's most popular walking atmospheres.
- Recommended
Lakefront Trail
Scenic path system along Lake Michigan popular for walking, biking, and postcard views of the waterfront and museum campus.
Beer-Battered Fish Fry
A Friday staple in Milwaukee: usually cod, perch, or walleye dipped in beer batter and served with fries, rye bread, and coleslaw. It reflects the city’s tavern culture and strong brewing heritage.
Bratwurst
Grilled or simmered German-style sausage, often served on a hard roll with mustard, sauerkraut, and onions. It is one of Milwaukee’s most recognizable foods because of the city’s German roots.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Curds
Fresh young cheddar curds, often eaten battered and fried in Wisconsin taverns and supper clubs. They are a classic local snack tied closely to Wisconsin dairy culture.
Sanford
One of Milwaukee’s best-known fine dining restaurants, offering refined seasonal American cuisine in an intimate setting. A top choice for a special meal.
Kopp's Frozen Custard
Milwaukee-area institution celebrated for frozen custard, jumbo burgers, and classic roadside stand appeal. Ideal for trying one of the city’s signature desserts.
The Vanguard
Popular Bay View spot specializing in gourmet sausages, creative brats, and a strong beer selection. Casual and modern, with a menu that nods to local sausage traditions.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Casual food and coffee are reasonable, while downtown hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a casual sit-down 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 bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff a few dollars, and round up for casual services.
FAQs: Bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI can start from as little as $55 (€44) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI is $61 (€49) ; 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 La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI is 3h 50m to travel the 175 miles (282 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 La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 8:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 4:00 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI with Infobus, Jefferson Lines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI, you can count on Infobus, Jefferson Lines for the best way to get you to Milwaukee, WI. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between La Crosse, WI and Milwaukee, WI and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Milwaukee, WI from La Crosse, WI is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between La Crosse, WI and Milwaukee, WI including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI for bus company Infobus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Infobus.
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 La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Infobus.
Since neither La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI
La Crosse
Milwaukee
The major bus station for departures in La Crosse is La Crosse. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at La Crosse for your trip from La Crosse to Milwaukee.
La Crosse
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Milwaukee is Milwaukee. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Milwaukee for your trip to Milwaukee from La Crosse.
Milwaukee
information
More options for your journey from La Crosse, WI to Milwaukee, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Milwaukee, WI and La Crosse, WI
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
