- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price on Sep 09
$22
Average ticket price on Sep 09
$24
Fastest journey on Sep 09
1 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 09
1 h 41 m
Buses on Sep 09
9
Distance
134 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL will cost around $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
On Wed, Sep 09, we found 9 buses from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL, including 9 direct services.
On Wed, Sep 09 the direct buses cover the 134 km distance in an average of 1 h 41 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 20 m .
On Wed, Sep 09 the slowest buses will take 1 h 55 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



FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $31 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, while a train costs an average of $35.
Distance: 83 miles (134 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$31 Average price Cheapest | $35 Average price | $24 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 25m Average total duration 1h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 59m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m 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 Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $3 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL costing on average $35 (€28).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 55m.
Tickets start at around $31 (€25) compared to roughly $24 (€20) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-7.03 (€-5.68). The journey takes 1h 55m versus 1h 30m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
The table below shows live departures for Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL buses for today, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3:25 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 1h50 | 5:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:30 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 1h20 | 7:50 AM Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:30 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 2h15 | 8:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:00 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 2h15 | 11:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:20 AM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 1h55 | 11:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 11:55 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 2h05 | 2:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 12:15 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 1h45 | 2:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:20 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 2h15 | 5:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:40 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 1h55 | 5:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:55 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 1h45 | 9:40 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) if you book in advance.
There are 11 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 20m.
Distance 83 miles (134 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 (€11) |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 1h 20m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL buses use the Milwaukee, Intermodal Station to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago. Use this guide to compare Milwaukee, WI and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
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.
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.
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