- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Aug 22
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$36
Fastest journey
1 h 19 m
Average duration
1 h 24 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
134 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Fast trains
Of the 12 trains that leave Milwaukee, WI for Chicago, IL on Sat, Aug 22, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 22 the direct trains cover the 134 km distance in an average of 1 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 19 m .
On Sat, Aug 22 the slowest trains will take 1 h 29 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.
334 Hiawatha Service11:00 AM1h39Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI12:39 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers- 342 Hiawatha Service7:45 PM1h19Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI9:04 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
- 338 Hiawatha Service3:10 PM1h19Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI4:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
- 336 Hiawatha Service1:15 PM1h29Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI2:44 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
- 338 Hiawatha Service3:00 PM1h29Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI4:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
- 342 Hiawatha Service7:45 PM1h19Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI9:04 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
- 338 Hiawatha Service3:10 PM1h19Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI4:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
- 1340 Borealis5:55 PM1h26Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI7:21 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$431One-way0 transfers
- 336 Hiawatha Service1:15 PM1h29Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI2:44 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
- 338 Hiawatha Service3:00 PM1h29Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI4:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL$341One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL
Omio 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 prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a train costs an average of $24.
Distance: 83 miles (134 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$27 Average price | $23 Average price Cheapest | $24 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 1m Average total duration Fastest 1h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 17m Average total duration 1h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $29 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $0.11 (€0.09) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL costing on average $29 (€24).
The fastest way to travel from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL is by train with an average journey time of 1h 31m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Milwaukee, 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 Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $29 (€24) compared to roughly $24 (€19) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.09 (€-4.09). The journey takes 1h 31m versus 1h 30m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL train times
The table below shows live departures for Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday, August 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 342 Hiawatha Service | 7:35 PM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h29 | 9:04 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 342 Hiawatha Service | 7:45 PM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h19 | 9:04 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, August 22 | |||||
| 330 Hiawatha Service | 6:15 AM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h52 | 8:07 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 330 Hiawatha Service | 6:26 AM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h41 | 8:07 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 334 Hiawatha Service | 11:00 AM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h39 | 12:39 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 334 Hiawatha Service | 11:10 AM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h29 | 12:39 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 336 Hiawatha Service | 1:05 PM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h39 | 2:44 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 336 Hiawatha Service | 1:15 PM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h29 | 2:44 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 338 Hiawatha Service | 3:00 PM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h29 | 4:29 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 338 Hiawatha Service | 3:10 PM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h19 | 4:29 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1340 Borealis | 5:44 PM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h37 | 7:21 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1340 Borealis | 5:55 PM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1h26 | 7:21 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL by bus or train
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL?
The best time to book your train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL is 42 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL.
Trains
from $25Buses
from $22Journey information
Overview: Train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Trains from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:10, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 83 miles (134 km) distance in 1h 29m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 83 miles (134 km) |
Average train duration 1h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 1h 29m |
First train 6:10 AM |
Last train 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 6 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
Bus from $20 (€16)
Train companies: Amtrak from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Milwaukee, WI and Chicago, IL from $15 (€12). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 29m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Amtrak frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Johnnie's Beef
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Superdawg Drive-In
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
Alinea
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€19), while the average price is around $27 (€22).
The train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL takes 1h 29m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL is 83 miles (134 km).
The first train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:10 AM.
The last train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:25 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Milwaukee, WI that goes to Chicago, IL is Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL offers a mix of urban and suburban views, with glimpses of Lake Michigan, but it's not typically considered scenic compared to more picturesque routes.
Yes, a day trip from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL is feasible, with a journey duration of 1h 29m and a distance of 83 miles (134 km). Trains operate with a frequency of 12 per day.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Milwaukee, 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.
Popular day trips by train from Chicago, IL include South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN, Joliet, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
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 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL
Most Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL trains use the Milwaukee Intermodal Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Milwaukee, WI and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Milwaukee
Arrival train stations in Chicago
Which Milwaukee, WI station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?
Trains from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL leave from Milwaukee Intermodal Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Milwaukee, WI city centre at 433 West St. Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203, USA.
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.
Which Chicago, IL station do trains from Milwaukee, WI arrive at?
Trains from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL most often arrive at Union Station. Some services arrive at Glenview Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chicago, IL arrival station.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Most popular train connections from Milwaukee, WI
More options for your journey from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI
Most popular train connections to Chicago, IL
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