- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
Leading lakefront museum with strong decorative arts, American art, and iconic architecture. It is Milwaukee's signature cultural attraction.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$585
Average price
$585
Fastest journey
2 d 19 h 5 m
Average duration
2 d 19 h 5 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
2958 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI will cost around $585 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $585.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave San Francisco, CA for Milwaukee, WI on Fri, Jul 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 2958 km distance in an average of 2 d 19 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 19 h 5 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 2 d 19 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.
9:30 PM67h05San Francisco, CA4:35 PMMilwaukee, WI$5851One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM67h05San Francisco, CA4:35 PMMilwaukee, WI$5851One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $256. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 9h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $256, and a flight costs an average of $487.
Distance: 1838 miles (2958 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$408 Average price Cheapest | $472 Average price | $524 Average price |
49h 50m Average total duration 49h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 53h 53m Average total duration 53h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 8m Average total duration Fastest 9h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI is a bus with an average price of $408 (€335).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is $64 (€52) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $472 (€387).
A bus is $116 (€95) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $524 (€430).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI is by flight with an average journey time of 9h 8m.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 49h 20m.
Train takes on average 53h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Milwaukee, WI including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users.
San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 04:45AM | Duration 71h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $256 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 62h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $143 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 53h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $143 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 67h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $474 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 67h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $585 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 65h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $226 |
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 67h05 | 3:35 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 San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI run on average 7 times per day, taking around 49h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $256 (€210) but you can travel from only $183 (€150) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 03:20, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 1838 miles (2958 km) distance in 56h 15m.
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 $183 (€150)
Distance 1838 miles (2958 km) |
Average bus duration 49h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $256 (€210) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 56h 15m |
First bus 3:20 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $183 (€150)
Bus providers: Greyhound from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WIYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI with Greyhound for as low as $183 (€150). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
56h 15m
Cheapest Price
$256 (€210)
Greyhound frequency
5 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, WI
Things to do in Milwaukee, WI
Discover the best of Milwaukee, WI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milwaukee, WI trip today.
- Must visit
Discovery World
Science and technology museum with hands-on exhibits, a dome theater, and major industrial displays. Great for families and curious adults alike.
- Must visit
Milwaukee Public Museum
Large natural and human history museum with dinosaur fossils, the Streets of Old Milwaukee, and cultural collections. A classic city institution.
- Must visit
Historic Third Ward
Revived historic warehouse district with boutiques, galleries, riverwalk access, and handsome architecture. Ideal for strolling and urban photography.
- Must visit
Milwaukee RiverWalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Milwaukee River linking downtown districts. It offers public art, bridges, and some of the city's best easy walks.
- Recommended
Lake Park
Large lakefront park with gardens, blufftop views, and access to North Point Lighthouse. A favorite for relaxing walks and skyline panoramas.
Bratwurst
A bratwurst, often grilled and served with sauerkraut and mustard. Milwaukee's strong German heritage makes it one of the city's signature foods.
Friday Fish Fry
Beer-battered whitefish or perch, usually served with rye bread, slaw, and potato pancakes. A beloved Friday tradition tied to the city's Catholic and tavern culture.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Curds
Fresh cheese curds, often battered and fried. They reflect Wisconsin's dairy identity and are a staple snack in Milwaukee bars and restaurants.
Kopp's Frozen Custard
Classic custard stand famed for fresh frozen custard and the Flavor of the Day. Casual, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in Milwaukee tradition.
Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro
Upscale supper club and seafood spot celebrated for its Friday fish fry, cocktails, and polished old-school Milwaukee atmosphere.
Kegel's Inn
Traditional tavern and restaurant known for hearty German fare, sausages, and one of the city's classic Friday fish fry experiences.
United States Dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels are often cheaper than Chicago, dining is mid-priced, and local transit is limited so visitors may spend more on rideshares or parking.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Round up or tip about 10% for taxis. Cafes often use tip jars or screens; $1-2 or 10-15% is common.
FAQs: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI can start from as little as $256 (€210) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI is $408 (€335) ; 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 San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI is 56h 15m to travel the 1838 miles (2958 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 San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 3:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Milwaukee, WI. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Milwaukee, WI and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Milwaukee, WI from San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 56h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Milwaukee, WI including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI for bus company Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Francisco, CA 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI
Most San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI buses use the San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 to Milwaukee, Intermodal Station station pair, with some services arriving at Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop). Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and Milwaukee, WI bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Francisco
Arrival bus stations in Milwaukee
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
Milwaukee, Intermodal Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Milwaukee, Intermodal Station from Milwaukee city centre
Bus57 · 4m · $5 · every ~4 min
Wisconsin Coach Lines · 6m · $4
Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop)
City-centre transport
Getting to Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop) from Milwaukee city centre
BusWisconsin Coach Lines · 10m · $6
Gre · 19m · $4 · every ~8 min
Gre · 27m · $4 · every ~8 min
Gre · 29m · $4 · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Milwaukee, WI and San Francisco, CA
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