- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 11
Cheapest price
$21
Average price
$25
Fastest journey
1 h 45 m
Average duration
1 h 50 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
138 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Waukesha, 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 Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Waukesha, WI for Chicago, IL on Sat, Jul 11, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 11 the direct buses cover the 138 km distance in an average of 1 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 45 m .
On Sat, Jul 11 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.
1:55 AM1h45Waukesha, WI3:40 AMChicago, IL$211One-way0 transfers
5:10 PM1h50Waukesha, WI7:00 PMChicago, IL$271One-way0 transfers- 2:20 PM1h55Waukesha, WI4:15 PMChicago, IL$281One-way0 transfers
- 1:55 AM1h45Waukesha, WI3:40 AMChicago, IL$211One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 PM1h50Waukesha, WI7:00 PMChicago, IL$271One-way0 transfers
- 2:20 PM1h55Waukesha, WI4:15 PMChicago, IL$281One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a train costs an average of $25.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $29 Average price | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 44m Average total duration 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 45m 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 Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $24 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL costing on average $29 (€24).
The fastest way to travel from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL is by train with an average journey time of 1h 33m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Waukesha, WI and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $24 (€20) compared to roughly $25 (€20) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $0.94 (€0.77). The journey takes 2h 14m versus 1h 45m 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.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus.
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.
Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:55AM | Arrival Time 02:40AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:55AM | Arrival Time 03:40AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 11:15AM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:40PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $19 |
Live departures
Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL buses for tomorrow, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:55 AM Waukesha, WI | 1h45 | 3:40 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:20 PM Waukesha, WI | 1h55 | 4:15 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:10 PM Waukesha, WI | 1h50 | 7:00 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Jul 11
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Jul 16
Why should you book Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Waukesha Metro Transit offer buses services from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Waukesha Metro Transit to find the best option for your trip from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) if you book in advance.
There are 12 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 1h 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 85 miles (138 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Buses per day 12 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 1h 45m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 3 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: FlixBus, Waukesha Metro Transit from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Waukesha Metro Transit for as low as $19 (€15). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
FlixBus frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Waukesha Metro Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Waukesha Metro Transit frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
A top natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, fossils, and broad science collections.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large hands-on science museum with a German submarine, space exhibits, and interactive engineering displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and major seasonal events.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, and bustling urban energy along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A popular pedestrian waterfront with excellent skyline views, bridges, and easy access to boat architecture tours.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Waukesha, 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $19 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL is $24 (€20) ; 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 Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL is 1h 45m to travel the 85 miles (138 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 Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 12 direct buses a day from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Waukesha Metro Transit for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Waukesha, WI and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Chicago, IL from Waukesha, WI is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Waukesha, WI and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
- Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
- Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
- Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
- Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
- Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
- Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
- Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
- Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
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 Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Waukesha, WI nor Chicago, IL 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 Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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.
More options for your journey from Waukesha, WI to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Waukesha, WI
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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