- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$191
Average price
$224
Fastest journey
20 h 10 m
Average duration
21 h 39 m
Buses per day
8
Distance
1021 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI will cost around $224 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $191.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus+
1:20 PM20h10Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station8:30 AMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$1911One-way2 transfers- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:20 PM22h15Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station10:35 AMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$1921One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus5:35 PM21h35Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station2:10 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$2101One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus5:35 PM21h15Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station1:50 PMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$2151One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus+ · 6:55 PM29h55Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station11:50 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$2361One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus+1:20 PM20h10Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station8:30 AMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$1911One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus5:35 PM21h15Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station1:50 PMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$2151One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus5:35 PM21h35Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station2:10 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$2101One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus1:20 PM22h15Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station10:35 AMMilwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI$1921One-way2 transfers
- · 1:50 AM23h00Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station11:50 PMMilwaukee, Intermodal Station$2421One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $117. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $117, and a train costs an average of $134.
Distance: 634 miles (1021 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$194 Average price Cheapest | $469 Average price | $224 Average price | $244 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
22h 22m Average total duration 21h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 4m Average total duration 20h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 24m Average total duration Fastest 5h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is a bus with an average price of $194 (€159).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is $30 (€24) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $224 (€184).
A bus is $275 (€226) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $469 (€385).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 24m.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Train takes on average 20h 34m.
Bus takes on average 21h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Milwaukee, WI including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC 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 {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50AM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 23h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $126 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 31h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $190 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 24h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $152 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 20h10 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 21h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $132 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 25h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $127 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 29h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $132 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI buses for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus+ | 1:20 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 20h10 | 8:30 AM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:20 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 22h15 | 10:35 AM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 5:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 21h15 | 1:50 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 5:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 21h35 | 2:10 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus+ · | 6:55 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 29h55 | 11:50 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 3 transfers | |
| · | 1:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 23h00 | 11:50 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus+ | 10:05 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 31h45 | 4:50 PM Milwaukee, Intermodal Station | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:05 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 33h20 | 6:25 PM Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (Wisconsin Coach ORD-MKE Bus Stop), WI | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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.
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Why should you book Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington, DC 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI run on average 7 times per day, taking around 21h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $117 (€96) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 634 miles (1021 km) distance in 19h 45m.
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 634 miles (1021 km) |
Average bus duration 21h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $117 (€96) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 19h 45m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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: Greyhound from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WIYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI with Greyhound for as low as $117 (€96). 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
19h 45m
Cheapest Price
$117 (€96)
Greyhound frequency
1 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
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 museum tracing the history, design, and cultural impact of Harley-Davidson motorcycles through iconic bikes and exhibits.
- Recommended
Discovery World
Science and technology museum on the waterfront with hands-on exhibits, Great Lakes content, and an aquarium.
- Must visit
Historic Third Ward
Trendy warehouse district known for shopping, galleries, public market surroundings, and some of the city's most photogenic streets.
- Must visit
Milwaukee RiverWalk
Popular pedestrian route along the river linking downtown neighborhoods, public art, and many of the city's signature views.
- Recommended
Lakefront Trail
Scenic walking and cycling corridor with Lake Michigan views, beaches, parks, and easy access to key attractions.
Beer Bratwurst
A Milwaukee classic: bratwurst simmered in beer and onions, then grilled. It reflects the city’s strong German heritage and beer culture.
Friday Fish Fry
A beloved Wisconsin tradition of battered or breaded fish, often perch or cod, served with sides like coleslaw, rye bread, and potato pancakes.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Curds
Fresh Wisconsin cheese curds, often beer-battered and fried. They are a signature local snack tied to the state’s dairy identity.
The Five O'Clock Steakhouse
Classic steakhouse with old-school supper club charm, known for steaks, cocktails, and a long-established local reputation.
Bacchus
Upscale fine-dining restaurant with refined American cuisine, strong wine service, and lakefront views suited to special occasions.
Lakefront Brewery
Popular brewery and restaurant famous for beer, cheese curds, and a classic Friday fish fry in a lively riverfront setting.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Casual food and drinks are reasonable, while downtown hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range 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 USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff.
FAQs: Bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI can start from as little as $117 (€96) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is $194 (€159) ; 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is 19h 45m to travel the 634 miles (1021 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC and Milwaukee, WI and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Milwaukee, WI from Washington, DC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 19h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Milwaukee, WI including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI for bus company Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Most Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI buses use the Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station 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 Washington, DC 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 Washington
Arrival bus stations in Milwaukee
Which Washington, DC station do buses to Milwaukee, WI leave from?
Buses from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI leave from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station from Washington city centre
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · $4 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · $2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $2 · every ~27 min
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station bus station facilities and services
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW)
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) from Washington city centre
BusD70 · 11m · $4 · every ~7 min
SubwayR · 6m · $2 · every ~27 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
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Milwaukee, WI and Washington, DC
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.
