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Milwaukee to Chicago train

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Milwaukee - Chicago Train Schedule

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Train Route Overview: Milwaukee to Chicago

There are usually 7 daily train trips available from Milwaukee to Chicago. Traveling by train from Milwaukee to Chicago usually takes one hour and 26 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Hiawatha train can make the trip in one hour and 19 minutes.

Distance81 mi (131 km)
Fastest train1h 19m
Lowest price$25.00
Trains per day14
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Hiawatha
Train lines1

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Milwaukee to Chicago

(Based on 42 ratings and reviews)

4.8

5.0

Vito Anthony

July 15, 2023- Vacation

Amtrak Hiawatha

Pros: Was nice and quiet in the quiet car! Cons: N/A. Tips: Quiet car👍👍👍👍👍.

5.0

Helen

July 2, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak Hiawatha

Pros: The quiet car. Cons: You can improve perfection. Tips: If you traveling with children or a group, try not to sit in the quiet car.

5.0

Francis

June 1, 2023

Amtrak Hiawatha

Cons: You are doing a good job. Keep up the good work! Tips: This is the best way to get to Midway if you are travelling with very little luggage. I really enjoyed the trip!!!

5.0

Gail

May 18, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak Hiawatha

Very pleased

5.0

Noemi

December 3, 2022- Vacation

Amtrak Hiawatha

Pros: I was seated next to a handsome man, doctor in training, named Tom, and spent the whole trip talking, probably bothering him. Cons: I wish I had 10 more minutes to get the chance to ask for his number!

Milwaukee to Chicago Route Map

Milwaukee Chicago

Price trends for trains from Milwaukee to Chicago

Average prices by travel date

$30$20$10OctOct

Monthly average prices

$25$20$15$10$5NDJFMAMJJASO

Prices as travel date approaches

$25$20$15$10$53020100

Which train should you take from Milwaukee to Chicago?

Amtrak Hiawatha is the one and only train line which connects Milwaukee to Chicago. However, there are 7 trains per day to choose from.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Hiawatha71h 27m$25.00
  • Since 1971, the Amtrak Hiawatha Service has operated along an 86-mile track from Milwaukee to Chicago. Amtrak Hiawatha offers a fast connection between the two cities, with an average journey time of only 90 minutes. There are 7 Hiawatha trips from Milwaukee to Chicago each day, and 13 daily trips on weekends. Each train comes equipped with onboard WiFi and checked luggage options. Unfortunately, there is no cafe car onboard, so pack snacks if traveling makes you hangry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your best bet is to take the train from Milwaukee to Chicago, as it’s likely to be the fastest option at a reasonable price. You can purchase a train ticket for around $25, and the ride takes about 1.5 hours.

Compare that to flying, which can cost upwards of $200. Bus tickets average $9, but the ride takes about two hours without factoring in traffic (which you should definitely consider if you’re headed to Chicago during rush hour). Driving yourself is also likely to be a more expensive option, as you have to consider the price of gas, parking and tolls.

Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.

Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.

Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.

The distance between Milwaukee and Chicago is approximately 81 miles, or 131 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 hour 26 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 hour 19 minutes. As a relatively short ride, taking the train is an easy way to travel between these two cities.

On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Milwaukee to Chicago on Tuesday. Tickets for Tuesday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Monday. Monday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Milwaukee at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

There are 7 scheduled trains on most days. 14 of these are direct connections to Chicago. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Chicago to Milwaukee.

City Information

Milwaukee

Nestling on the banks of the great Lake Michigan, Milwaukee has some of the most scenic views around, making it every photographer’s perfect destination. Boasting 85 miles of scenic waterfront bike lanes, Milwaukee is the perfect spot to ride a bike and enjoy the sunset together with your friends. It is also the home of the Harley Davidson Museum, a vast waterfront gallery that offers 11 permanent exhibitions. The museum features not only bikes but also special items such as a whole engine room, making it a must-visit spot for bike enthusiasts. If you are not interested in bikes, the Basilica of St. Josaphat, which is modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, offers many wondrous shots.

Milwaukee’s famous German bratwursts are a must-try for all visitors, and the best place to enjoy this dish is Usinger’s. Other similar establishments include Mader’s and Milwaukee Public Market. For authentic American eats, Leon's Frozen Custard Drive-In offers amazing sloppy-joe burgers.

The Milwaukee Intermodal Station is the city’s main transportation hub. Visitors can catch both buses and trains at this location. The city is served by two airports. The Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport on the southern edge of the city handles commercial flights, while the Lawrence J. Timmerman Airport in the northwest handles private flights.

Chicago

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Milwaukee?

Intermodal Station - 433 W ST Paul Ave  - MKEIMS-1

Image credit: Payton Chung

Link to image attribution
Intermodal Station - 433 W ST Paul Ave  - MKEIMS-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: Intermodal Station - 433 W ST Paul Ave

The Milwaukee Intermodal Station is the major transportation hub for rail and bus travel in Wisconsin. The station is Amtrak’s second busiest in the Midwest. It acts as a gateway for long-distance travel into the American West and also connects Milwaukee to the surrounding Midwest states via the Hiawatha service. Renovated in 2007, the Intermodal Station now also offers a range of intercity bus services from carriers, including Greyhound and Jefferson Lines. Local bus routes and The Hop streetcar service provide convenient local travel around Milwaukee. Located in the city’s downtown, The Intermodal Station has vast retail spaces, several museums, and pleasant waterways all on its doorstep.

All train stations in Milwaukee:

  • Intermodal Station - 433 W ST Paul Ave

  • Airport - 5601 S 6th St

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: Union Station

The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.

All train stations in Chicago:

  • Union Station

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