- 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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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $30.
Distance: 69 miles (112 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$30 Average price | $21 Average price Cheapest | $15 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 21m Average total duration Fastest 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration 2h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is $9 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $30 (€25).
The fastest way to travel from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI is by train with an average journey time of 51m.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Plaines, IL and Milwaukee, WI including taking a bus and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 19m sooner (51m by train vs 1h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $30 (€25) compared to roughly $15 (€13) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI by bus or train
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
Trains from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI run on average 12 times per day, taking around 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€25) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 11:00, the last at 19:45. The fastest train covers the 69 miles (112 km) distance in 51m.
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
Bus from $21 (€17)
Distance 69 miles (112 km) |
Average train duration 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€25) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 51m |
First train 11:00 AM |
Last train 7:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Bus from $21 (€17)
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
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: Trains from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Milwaukee, WI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€25), while the average price is around $30 (€25).
The train from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI takes 51m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 11:00 AM.
The distance by train from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI is 69 miles (112 km).
The last train from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 7:45 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
The train station in Des Plaines, IL that goes to Milwaukee, WI is Glenview Station, Glenview, IL, which connects to Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI.
The cheapest way to get from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI offers a mix of urban and natural scenery. Passengers can enjoy views of suburban landscapes, glimpses of the Des Plaines River, and stretches of the Midwest's open fields, making for a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI is not feasible as the journey duration is 51m. However, there are 12 trains available per day for this route. The distance is 69 miles (112 km).
To fully experience Milwaukee, WI, it is recommended to spend 2 to 3 days. This allows time to explore its vibrant arts scene, enjoy local breweries, visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, and experience the historic Third Ward district.
No, you cannot take the train from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI.
Since neither Des Plaines, IL 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.
Popular day trips by train from Milwaukee, WI include Chicago, IL, Glenview, IL, Sturtevant, WI, Palatine, IL, Evanston, IL.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI
Most Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI trains use the Glenview Station to Airport Amtrak Station station pair, with some services arriving at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. Use this guide to compare Des Plaines, IL and Milwaukee, WI train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Des Plaines
Arrival train stations in Milwaukee
Which Milwaukee, WI station do trains from Des Plaines, IL arrive at?
Trains from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI most often arrive at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. Some services arrive at Airport Amtrak Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Milwaukee, WI arrival station.
Milwaukee Intermodal Station433 West St. Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203, USA1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
City-centre transport
Getting to Milwaukee Intermodal Station from Milwaukee city centre
Milwaukee Intermodal Station is 1 km from Milwaukee city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus57 · 4m · $5 · every ~4 min
Wisconsin Coach Lines · 6m · $4
Milwaukee Intermodal Station train station facilities and services
Milwaukee Intermodal Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Milwaukee ChopHouse, The Capital Grille
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton Milwaukee City Center, Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, The Pfister Hotel.
Airport Amtrak Station5601 S 6th St, Milwaukee, WI 53221, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Airport Amtrak Station from Milwaukee city centre
Airport Amtrak Station is 11 km from Milwaukee city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainHiawatha Service, Borealis · 9m · $2
Bus19 · 46m · $5 · every ~6 min
19 · 47m · $5 · every ~6 min
Airport Amtrak Station train station facilities and services
Airport Amtrak Station has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Airport Amtrak Station.
Most popular train connections from Des Plaines, IL
More options for your journey from Des Plaines, IL to Milwaukee, WI
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Most popular trains to and from Milwaukee, WI and Des Plaines, IL
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