- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Showing times and prices for Jul 22
Cheapest price
$160
Average price
$249
Fastest journey
1 d 3 h 39 m
Average duration
1 d 5 h 14 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
1021 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 $249 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $160.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI without transferring at least once.
51 Cardinal · 335 Hiawatha Service11:39 AM27h39Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:18 PMAirport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI$1601One-way1 transfer- 51 Cardinal · 335 Hiawatha Service11:39 AM27h55Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:34 PMMilwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI$1621One-way1 transfer
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 335 Hiawatha Service10:35 AM28h43Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:18 PMAirport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI$2771One-way2 transfers
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 339 Hiawatha Service10:35 AM32h52Washington Union Station, Washington, DC6:27 PMAirport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI$2851One-way2 transfers
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 335 Hiawatha Service10:35 AM28h59Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:34 PMMilwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI$3011One-way2 transfers
- 51 Cardinal · 335 Hiawatha Service11:39 AM27h39Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:18 PMAirport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI$1601One-way1 transfer
- 51 Cardinal · 335 Hiawatha Service11:39 AM27h55Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:34 PMMilwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI$1621One-way1 transfer
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 335 Hiawatha Service10:35 AM28h43Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:18 PMAirport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI$2771One-way2 transfers
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 335 Hiawatha Service10:35 AM28h59Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:34 PMMilwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI$3011One-way2 transfers
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 339 Hiawatha Service10:35 AM32h52Washington Union Station, Washington, DC6:27 PMAirport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI$2851One-way2 transfers
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 $96. 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 $96, and a train costs an average of $110.
Distance: 634 miles (1021 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$385 Average price | $159 Average price Cheapest | $184 Average price | $200 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
21h 4m Average total duration 20h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 22h 22m Average total duration 21h 52m 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 $159 (€159).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is $24 (€24) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $184 (€184).
A bus is $226 (€226) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $385 (€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 train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $385 (€385) compared to roughly $200 (€200) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-185.20 (€-185.20). The journey takes 20h 34m versus 11h 55m 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
Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 335 Hiawatha Service | 10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 28h43 | 2:18 PM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 2 transfers | |
| 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 339 Hiawatha Service | 10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 32h52 | 6:27 PM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 2 transfers | |
| 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 339 Hiawatha Service | 10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 33h10 | 6:45 PM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 2 transfers | |
| 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 335 Hiawatha Service | 10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 28h59 | 2:34 PM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 2 transfers | |
| 51 Cardinal · 335 Hiawatha Service | 11:39 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 27h39 | 2:18 PM Airport Amtrak Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1 transfer | |
| 51 Cardinal · 335 Hiawatha Service | 11:39 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 27h55 | 2:34 PM Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI run on average 5 times per day, taking around 20h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $110 (€110) but you can travel from only $96 (€96) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:05, the last at 16:05. The fastest train covers the 634 miles (1021 km) distance in 27h 55m.
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 $96 (€96)
Distance 634 miles (1021 km) |
Average train duration 20h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€110) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 27h 55m |
First train 8:05 AM |
Last train 4:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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 $96 (€96)
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Milwaukee, WI from $96 (€96). 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
27h 55m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€110)
Amtrak frequency
1 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 Milwaukee, WI
Things to do in Milwaukee, WI
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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $110 (€110), while the average price is around $385 (€385).
The train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI takes 27h 55m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 8:05 AM.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is 634 miles (1021 km).
The last train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI leaves at 4:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
There is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Milwaukee, WI is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Milwaukee Intermodal Station, Milwaukee, WI.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is by bus, with a cost of around $96 (€96).
The train journey from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI offers some scenic views, particularly through the rolling hills and farmland of Pennsylvania and the picturesque landscapes of Ohio and Indiana, though much of the route also traverses urban and industrial areas.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI is not feasible as the journey takes 27h 55m and covers 634 miles (1021 km). The trip frequency is 5 per day for trains.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Milwaukee, WI include Chicago, IL, Glenview, IL, Sturtevant, WI, Palatine, IL, Evanston, IL.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI 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 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 Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI
Most Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI trains use the Union Station to Milwaukee Intermodal Station station pair, with some services arriving at Airport Amtrak Station. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC 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 Washington
Arrival train stations in Milwaukee
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Milwaukee, WI leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Milwaukee, WI leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States.
Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States+1 202 2891908
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Washington city centre
Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · $3 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · $2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $2 · every ~27 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Shake Shack, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Chopt Creative Salad Co., Chipotle Mexican Grill, Thunder Grill, Johnny Rockets, Jamba Juice, Ladurée Union Station, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak. ATMs are there are 2 ATM machines located on Level G.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00, Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill, Phoenix Park Hotel, Kimpton George Hotel.
Which Milwaukee, WI station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC 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 · $4 · every ~4 min
Wisconsin Coach Lines · 6m · $3
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 · $4 · every ~6 min
19 · 47m · $4 · 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 Washington, DC
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 trains to and from Milwaukee, WI and Washington, DC
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