Cheap train tickets from Milwaukee to Rockford
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Trip Summary
There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Milwaukee to Rockford. Traveling by train from Milwaukee to Rockford usually takes 11 hours and 41 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 3 hours and 55 minutes.
| Distance | 80 mi (129 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 55m |
| Lowest price | $56.00 |
| Trains per day | 0 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Milwaukee to Rockford Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Milwaukee to Rockford?
There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Milwaukee to Rockford.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$62.96 | Avg. Price$46.90Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips4 | Daily Trips2 |
Duration | Duration11h 41m | Duration5h 10mFaster |

There are several train options that can take you from Milwaukee to Rockford:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Milwaukee to Rockford?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Milwaukee to Rockford was $56.00. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 9 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $15.00 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Milwaukee to Rockford by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Milwaukee to Rockford will cost between $57 and $67. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Milwaukee to Rockford by month
Taking the train from Milwaukee to Rockford usually costs about the same throughout the year. In general, train ticket prices for this route are fairly consistent, so expect to pay around $61 whenever you decide to travel.
Prices as travel date approaches
The price of train trips from Milwaukee to Rockford doesn't fluctuate much throughout the year, so you don’t need to book your tickets super far in advance. However, to avoid last-minute price surges or sold-out tickets, we recommend purchasing your train tickets at least 48 hours before departure.
What train companies travel from Milwaukee to Rockford?
There are multiple trains that travel from Milwaukee to Rockford, including Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 11h 41m | $62.96 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 4 Amtrak trains from Milwaukee to Rockford every day, as well as 6 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $54.










Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Milwaukee to Rockford
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Rockford to Milwaukee. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Milwaukee to Rockford for $34.
TRIPS PER DAY
4
DIRECT TRIPS
0
The distance between Milwaukee and Rockford is approximately 80 miles, or 129 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 11 hours and 41 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 3 hours and 55 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
DISTANCE (MI)
80
DISTANCE (KM)
129
The earliest train departs Milwaukee at 8:05am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:45pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
8:05am
LATEST TRAIN
7:45pm
Trains from Milwaukee to Rockford are the most crowded on Tuesday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Tuesday
LEAST CROWDED
Wednesday
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.
Rockford



Located on the banks of the Rock River, Rockford is one of Illinois' best vacation destinations and the state's fourth-largest city. With its vast, green open spaces, golf courses, four rivers, and Rock Cut State Park, this city offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Rockford is often referred to as the City of Gardens, owing to its numerous beautifully-landscaped areas. The Anderson Japanese Gardens boasts the reputation of being one of the highest-quality Japanese gardens in North America, with picturesque water features and exotic plants; the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.
Head indoors to Rockford's museums on cooler days, including the Riverfront Museum Park and the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Finish the day with tickets for a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Centre and enjoy the atmospheric-style theatre and movie house's outstanding interior architecture.
Rockford is conveniently situated near three airports, Rockford International, Chicago O'Hare International, and Dane County Regional. Bus service runs from these airports and Union Station in Chicago to easily access the city. In addition, Amtrak Thruway buses connect Rockford to Amtrak's rail network, with destinations via train including Detroit, St. Louis, and even New York.
Station Information
Where does the train leave from in Milwaukee?
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 does the train arrive in Rockford?
Main arrival station: Van Galder Bus Office
The Van Galder Bus Office is located just off Interstate 51 in Rockford, Illinois. Although the bus stop doesn't have much in terms of amenities, it's in a resting area for road trips and buses. Grab coffee at the Starbucks, food at Burger King, or stay overnight in the Garden Inn just across the street. The terminal, which is operated by Van Galder Buses, services buses that run between Rockford and Madison, as well as Chicago O'Hare Airport and Union Station in downtown Chicago. Within the station building, there's a waiting room for you to enjoy your latte or burger, and a ticket kiosk if you have any questions about your trip.
All train stations in Rockford:
- Van Galder Bus Office
Need a return trip from Rockford to Milwaukee?
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