Madison, WI to Milwaukee, WI bus

Buses from Madison to Milwaukee

Taking a bus journey from Madison to Milwaukee offers you a safe at reliable travel option between the two cities with scenic views along the journey. Typically, about 24 daily bus journeys operate from Madison to Milwaukee, taking about 1h 45min to cover the 75-mile (121 km) distance between the cities. The Madison to Milwaukee route is operated by Amtrak Thruway and Greyhound bus services. You can find a bus journey from Madison to Milwaukee that most suits your travel and pocket needs by booking with Omio at your convenience.

Madison to Milwaukee Bus Time: Daily Departures

About 24 daily bus journeys operate the Madison to Milwaukee route, featuring direct and indirect journeys. The journeys are spread throughout the day, from early mornings to late evenings, offering you options. The earliest bus journey departs from Madison at around 2:00 a.m., and the last one leaves at 5:40 p.m. However, this schedule may vary depending on your travel date. You can find an updated schedule for all bus journeys on your travel date by using the search feature on Omio.

How long is the journey by bus from Madison to Milwaukee?

The bus journey from Madison to Milwaukee takes about 1h 45 min, but the duration may vary depending on the departure time and on specific days, including weekends and holidays. The fastest bus journey takes only 1h 25min for the 75-mile (121km) journey between the two cities. However, the slower connecting bus journeys on the Madison to Milwaukee journey take up to 6h 50min.

What are the departure and arrival stations for buses from Madison to Milwaukee?

Departure stations: Buses operating the Madison to Milwaukee route depart from either 250 North Lake Street or 700 University Ave Greyhound Bus Stop. Both stations are just a few strides away from the city center, offering convenient access. Also, the bus stations are less than 1 mile (1.6 km) apart; therefore, the travel time difference is negligible. However, both stations are essentially for pick up purposes; therefore, they do not feature onsite amenities.

Arrival station: Bus journeys operating the Madison to Milwaukee arrive at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. The station is conveniently located a walking distance away from downtown Milwaukee. Also, the station features intermodal public transportation transfers if you wish to travel to other parts of the city. The station’s prime location offers you easy access to various dining options, shopping outlets, and attractions in the city. Some of the amenities available at the station include ATMs, payphones, Quik-Trak kiosks, restrooms, vending machines, and a bag storage facility.

Milwaukee Winter City Bridge. Source: Shutterstock

Which bus companies travel from Madison to Milwaukee

Two bus operators service the Madison to Milwaukee route; Greyhound and Amtrak. The latter operates more frequent bus journeys from Madison to Milwaukee with at least 5 daily departures. However, Amtrak operates both direct and slower connecting journeys, featuring a transfer along the way. On the other hand, Greyhound operates about two daily bus trips on the Madison to Milwaukee route, and they are all direct.

Amtrak buses from Madison to Milwaukee

Amtrak offers direct and connecting daily bus connections from Madison to Milwaukee operated by the Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach services. The bus operator services an average of five daily journeys from Madison to Milwaukee. Some of the Amtrak indirect journeys on this route only take you part of the journey to the Chicago Union Station. The rest of the journey to Milwaukee is completed by Amtrak train service.

Greyhound buses from Madison to Milwaukee

Greyhound Line service operates at direct bus journeys from Madison to Milwaukee. The bus operator has at least two daily journeys on the Madison to Milwaukee route, taking under 2h. This bus operator services the fastest high-speed buses on this route, taking about 1h 25min between the two cities.

Buses from Madison to Milwaukee: Services on Board

Although the Amtrak buses do not match the premium chic amenities available in the trains, they are worth the cost-effective ticket prices. Enjoy a road trip feel from Madison to Milwaukee with the Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach, boasting a fair share of onboard facilities to offer you a memorable travel experience. These basses feature spacious reclining seats with leg rests, ensuring comfort throughout your Madison to Milwaukee journey. Also, Amtrak is committed to providing a convenient onboard experience for travelers with limited mobility. These lift-equipped busses feature accessibility facilities and special assistance services, ensuring your travel experience is hassle-free. If you wish to bring your bicycle on board for your Madison to Milwaukee bus journey, you can do so on Amtrak Thruway buses, provided space is available.

For travelers with luggage, the Amtrak buses allow carry-on luggage as long as it is within the size restriction. Greyhound features various onboard amenities to spruce up your Madison to Milwaukee journey. The bus offers spacious adjustable leather seats featuring extra legroom and a convenient footrest, providing an ideal posture to relax or catch some sleep. Also, each seat on the bus features a standard power outlet to keep your devices charged as you enjoy the high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi onboard.

If you seek to bring baggage on your Madison to Milwaukee journey, the bus allows one carry-on item up to 25 lbs (11 kg) onboard and up to three bags 50 lbs (22 kg) each to the storage compartment under the bus. However, the two extra bags stored under the bus may incur additional charges.

Moreover, you can only bring your bicycle onboard for your Madison to Milwaukee journey if you package them in a bicycle box. The bus operator considers bicycles to be excess luggage; therefore, you will incur extra costs. Greyhound is devoted to offering a safe, hassle-free onboard experience for travelers with limited mobility. The buses are accessible, and the staff onboard is well-trained to offer any special assistance needs during the journey.

Milwaukee Port Bus School. Source: Shutterstock

How to find cheap bus tickets from Madison to Milwaukee

Finding cheap bus tickets on the Madison to Milwaukee route is convenient when you book with Omio. Consider booking in advance to avoid the last-minute rush. Also, it is important to be flexible with your travel date, if possible, to capitalize on available cheaper deals. Use the handy search filter tools on Omio to find cheap deals on other travel dates. Finally, settle for slower or connecting bus journeys from Madison to Milwaukee. While such a journey can be inconvenient, they will help you save some cash.

To Milwaukee by bus – travel tips

While Milwaukee may not be on the bucket list of many vacationers, it is a destination gem with a decent share of thrilling attractions. You are certain to enjoy a comprehensive range of fun-filled outdoor activities, scenic views, and a rich, diverse culinary scene.

No other destination matches Milwaukee when it comes to fine beer. If you are a beer enthusiast, then Milwaukee is the place for you. This beer paradise boasts some of the best beer tastes in the world, from craft ales to lager. Moreover, you won’t have to seek a beer joint as they are spread throughout the city.

Also, the city is a haven for foodies, featuring a diverse dining scene. Inspired by the prevalent immigrant population in Milwaukee, its dining scene features creative global delicacies to savor. If you are looking to unwind in nature, look no further than Milwaukee. The city is a natural oasis with several nature parks, with water parks, gardens, hiking trails, and golf courses spread throughout the city.