- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
Leading lakefront museum with strong decorative arts, American art, and iconic architecture. It is Milwaukee's signature cultural attraction.
We are not able to find a train between these two places.
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Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sterling, VA to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $193. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $193, and a flight costs an average of $219.
Distance: 612 miles (986 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$193 Average price Cheapest | $215 Average price | $219 Average price | $152 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 32m Average total duration 27h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 5m Average total duration 20h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 58m Average total duration Fastest 4h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Sterling, VA to Milwaukee, WI:
A train is $22 (€18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Sterling, VA to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $215 (€177).
A train is $26 (€22) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sterling, VA to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $219 (€180).
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 20h 35m.
Train takes on average 27h 2m.
Tickets start at around $193 (€159) compared to roughly $152 (€125) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-40.73 (€-33.56). The journey takes 27h 2m versus 11h 57m 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.
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.
Trains from Sterling, VA to Milwaukee, WI run on average 2 times per day, taking around 27h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $193 (€159) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 17:32, the last at 17:32. The fastest train covers the 612 miles (986 km) distance in 27h 2m.
Distance 612 miles (986 km) |
Average train duration 27h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $193 (€159) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 27h 2m |
First train 5:32 PM |
Last train 5:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Discover the best of Milwaukee — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milwaukee trip today.
Leading lakefront museum with strong decorative arts, American art, and iconic architecture. It is Milwaukee's signature cultural attraction.
Science and technology museum with hands-on exhibits, a dome theater, and major industrial displays. Great for families and curious adults alike.
Large natural and human history museum with dinosaur fossils, the Streets of Old Milwaukee, and cultural collections. A classic city institution.
Revived historic warehouse district with boutiques, galleries, riverwalk access, and handsome architecture. Ideal for strolling and urban photography.
Scenic pedestrian route along the Milwaukee River linking downtown districts. It offers public art, bridges, and some of the city's best easy walks.
Large lakefront park with gardens, blufftop views, and access to North Point Lighthouse. A favorite for relaxing walks and skyline panoramas.
A bratwurst, often grilled and served with sauerkraut and mustard. Milwaukee's strong German heritage makes it one of the city's signature foods.
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.
Fresh cheese curds, often battered and fried. They reflect Wisconsin's dairy identity and are a staple snack in Milwaukee bars and restaurants.
Classic custard stand famed for fresh frozen custard and the Flavor of the Day. Casual, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in Milwaukee tradition.
Upscale supper club and seafood spot celebrated for its Friday fish fry, cocktails, and polished old-school Milwaukee atmosphere.
Traditional tavern and restaurant known for hearty German fare, sausages, and one of the city's classic Friday fish fry experiences.
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.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sterling, VA 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.

Most Sterling, VA to Milwaukee, WI trains use the Manassas Station to Airport Amtrak Station station pair, with some services arriving at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. Use this guide to compare Sterling, VA and Milwaukee, WI train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Airport Amtrak Station is 11 km from Milwaukee city centre. Public transport options include:
Airport Amtrak Station has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Airport Amtrak Station.
Milwaukee Intermodal Station is 1 km from Milwaukee city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Milwaukee ChopHouse, The Capital Grille
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milwaukee Intermodal Station: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hilton Milwaukee City Center, Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, The Pfister Hotel.
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