There is no place quite like Milwaukee, Wisconsin, “Cream City,” in the Midwest. For good reason, Milwaukee attracts millions every year. Between the famous Milwaukee breweries, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Summerfest (the largest music festival in the world), delicious food, and a growing local arts scene, the Cream City has it all!
The best way to get to Milwaukee? Taking the train!
Whether you are taking a short ride from Chicago or if you are taking the long route from New York, Los Angeles, or Seattle, Amtrak’s rail network has you covered. Milwaukee is accessible and beautiful the entire way.
This guide is a one-stop shop for everything you need to know to take the train to Milwaukee, including: what trains go to Milwaukee, train fare, booking tickets, what to expect in the station, and money-saving tips and tricks.
Why Take a Train to Milwaukee? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel
If you’re deciding between flying, driving, or taking the train from Milwaukee, the following are the reasons train travel is the best option for most travelers:
1. City-Center to City-Center Convenience
The Milwaukee Intermodal Station sits just minutes away from downtown. There are no long trips to the airport and no need to rent a car. When you get off the train, you find yourself right in the middle of the city, near restaurants, hotels, and the major sights.
2. No Airport Stress
The journey from Milwaukee Mitchell Airport means arriving at least 90 minutes earlier, getting through TSA, waiting in baggage claim, and finding ground transport. Train travel removes all the hassle. Be sure to arrive 20 minutes prior to departure time, and you’re ready to take off.
3. More Space and Comfort Than Flying
Amtrak seats are considerably more comfortable than the economy seats of airlines. It is possible to walk around the train or visit the cafe cars and stretch your legs and take in the scenery, particularly on routes that are longer, including business Class or Sleeper choices.
4. Scenic Views You Can’t Get Anywhere Else
The Chicago-Milwaukee Hiawatha route has stunning views across Lake Michigan. Long-distance trains such as the Empire Builder travel through stunning Midwest scenery. This is a view you can’t miss. I-94.
5. Low-cost airfares, especially from Chicago
Amtrak Saver tickets that run from Chicago to Milwaukee begin as little as $20 to $25. Comparing that with flying (even prior to baggage charges and airport transfer fees), the train offers an exceptional price.
6. Eco-Friendly Travel
Rail travel is far more efficient in reducing CO2 emissions for each passenger than driving or flying. The train option is one of the most environmentally sustainable alternatives to travel you could make.
7. Wi-Fi and Power Outlets Included
Keep connected wherever you move. Many Amtrak trains that go to Milwaukee have free Wi-Fi, as well as electricity outlets at every seat, which is ideal for students and remote workers.
Which Trains Go to Milwaukee? Major Rail Services Explained
The Amtrak rail system offers three major rail services to, from, and through Milwaukee, and most have several daily departures, providing connections to major metropolitan centers nationwide.
| Train Name | Route | Daily Frequency | Best For |
| Hiawatha Service | Chicago ↔ Milwaukee | Up to 7 round-trip/day | Chicago commuters, weekend trips |
| Empire Builder | Chicago ↔ Seattle / Portland | 1 round trip/day | Pacific Northwest travelers |
| Borealis | Chicago ↔ Minneapolis/St. Paul | 1 round trip/day | Twin Cities travelers |
Hiawatha Service – The Milwaukee Express
The Hiawatha makes connections from Milwaukee to Amtrak’s national network most conveniently. Running 7 round trips from Milwaukee to Chicago daily makes the Hiawatha one of Amtrak’s busiest rail corridors. The 90-minute travel time makes the Hiawatha popular for day and weekend trips as well as business travel. Seating is offered in both Coach and Business Class.
Empire Builder – The Long-Distance Scenic Journey
The trip on the Empire Builder is one of the classic routes of American rail travel. The daily departure from Chicago passes through Milwaukee as it traverses a wide swath of the Northwest of the United States. Have you been exploring the Pacific Northwest and want to travel to Milwaukee by rail? This is your train. This full-service train offers Roomettes, Bedrooms, and all meals included.
Borealis – The Better Way to Travel the Twin Cities
The Borealis is the latest addition to rail travel. It is a great alternative to the time-consuming, high-stress, long-distance drive, providing a daily connection from Milwaukee through the Twin Cities.
Popular Train Routes to Milwaukee From Major US Cities
Amtrak likely has a route that’s convenient to you, no matter where you might be traveling from. Here’s a guide to some of the more popular Amtrak origin cities:
| Origin City | Train(s) | Approx. Duration | Connection Needed? |
| Chicago, IL | Hiawatha / Empire Builder / Borealis | ~1.5 hours | No – Direct |
| Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN | Borealis | ~7-8 hours | No – Direct |
| Seattle, WA | Empire Builder | ~44-48 hours | No – Direct |
| Portland, OR | Empire Builder | ~46-50 hours | No – Direct |
| New York, NY | Lake Shore Limited + Hiawatha | ~22-26 hours | Yes (Chicago) |
| Washington, D.C. | Capitol Limited + Hiawatha | ~20-22 hours | Yes (Chicago) |
| Boston, MA | Lake Shore Limited + Hiawatha | ~25-28 hours | Yes (Chicago) |
| Los Angeles, CA | Southwest Chief + Hiawatha | ~50-55 hours | Yes (Chicago) |
| Denver, CO | California Zephyr + Hiawatha | ~30-34 hours | Yes (Chicago) |
| Detroit, MI | Wolverine + Hiawatha | ~9-11 hours | Yes (Chicago) |
Key Takeaway: Most Amtrak routes to Milwaukee will stop in Chicago Union Station first. Travelers from all over the US will connect to Chicago to catch the Hiawatha, Empire Builder, or Borealis to Milwaukee.
NYC to Milwaukee Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
Travelers from New York City have one of the most popular long-distance routes to Milwaukee. This is how to do it:
Leg 1: New York Penn Station – Chicago Union Station
- Train: Lake Shore Limited
- The departure time is usually in the evening/late afternoon
- Time: About 19-20 hours
- It arrives at Chicago Union Station the following day
Leg 2: Chicago Union Station – Milwaukee Intermodal Station
- Train: Hiawatha Service
- Time: About 90 minutes
- Different departures during the day allow the possibility of a single-day Chicago connection.
Total Journey Time
About 21-26 hours based on your Chicago layover and when you depart.
NYC to Milwaukee Train Tips
| Tip | Details |
| Book as One Ticket | Book NYC→MKE as a single Amtrak itinerary for automatic rebooking if you miss a connection |
| Reserve a Sleeper | A Roomette on the Lake Shore Limited makes the overnight segment far more comfortable |
| Same-Day Connection | The Lake Shore Limited typically arrives in Chicago in the morning, allowing a same-day Hiawatha |
| Book 6-8 Weeks Early | Saver fares on the Lake Shore Limited sell out quickly |
| Travel Mid-Week | Tuesday/Wednesday departures are typically the cheapest days to travel |
Estimated Ticket Costs: NYC → Milwaukee
| Class | Approximate Price Range |
| Coach (both legs) | $80 – $180 |
| Business Class upgrade (Hiawatha leg) | +$15 – $30 |
| Roomette Sleeper (Lake Shore Limited, meals included) | $280 – $500+ |
| Bedroom Sleeper (Lake Shore Limited, meals included) | $500 – $900+ |
Milwaukee Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
Are you taking the train for the first time? This is everything you should be aware of to ensure a pleasant, fun Milwaukee train journey:
Get to your Station Early: Unlike airports, there’s no rule of two hours; however, you should aim to arrive between 20 and 30 minutes before the departure time. It gives you enough time to get your train station sorted, store your luggage, and choose a seating position (especially for the open-seat Hiawatha).
Install the Amtrak App: The no-cost Amtrak application is vital. You are able to see your ticket and track your train’s movements in real-time and receive delay notifications, and you can even purchase food in the cafe car on selected routes.
The Hiawatha: Coach seats on the Hiawatha Coach are open seating, that is, there aren’t any assigned seats. Get there early if you’d like an open window, a tranquil car park, or to relax in a group.
Cafe Car: The cafe car is a place to buy hot and cold drinks, as well as sandwiches, snacks, and alcoholic beverages. For longer trips, such as The Empire Builder, a full eating car is available for hot meals, which are included in the sleeper fare.
Luggage Strategy: Overhead racks, as well as designated areas for luggage, are accessible for all trains. Make sure your luggage is in order to travel on Hiawatha’s 90-minute journey. In the event of longer trips, Milwaukee Intermodal Station offers the option of checked baggage.
Quiet Car: There are many Amtrak trains that classify one vehicle as “Quiet Car” – there are no calls or conversations. It is ideal for sleeping or working during longer journeys.
Keep hydrated and bring an empty water bottle: Cafe cars sell beverages; however, having your own bottle is sensible for longer trips.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Milwaukee
Knowing the difference between direct routes and those that have connections can help you strategize more effectively while you’re on the road.
Direct Routes to Milwaukee (No Transfer Required)
| Origin | Train | Travel Time |
| Chicago, IL | Hiawatha / Empire Builder / Borealis | ~1.5 hours |
| Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN | Borealis | ~7-8 hours |
| Seattle, WA | Empire Builder | ~44-48 hours |
| Portland, OR | Empire Builder | ~46-50 hours |
| La Crosse, WI | Empire Builder / Borealis | ~3-4 hours |
| Winona, MN | Empire Builder / Borealis | ~5-6 hours |
Connecting Routes to Milwaukee (Via Chicago)
| Origin | Train to Chicago | Connection at Chicago |
| New York, NY | Lake Shore Limited | Hiawatha or Empire Builder |
| Washington, D.C. | Capitol Limited | Hiawatha or Empire Builder |
| Boston, MA | Lake Shore Limited | Hiawatha or Empire Builder |
| Los Angeles, CA | Southwest Chief | Hiawatha |
| Denver, CO | California Zephyr | Hiawatha |
| New Orleans, LA | City of New Orleans | Hiawatha |
Pro Tip: Always purchase connecting routes as a single Amtrak itinerary on the amtrak.com site instead of two standalone tickets. Amtrak is liable for your connection if the first train is delayed.
Business Class vs. Coach on Milwaukee Trains
Budget, preference, and the distance of the trip are all factors when deciding between Business Class and Coach for a train trip to Milwaukee. Below are the details:
| Feature | Coach | Business Class |
| Seating | Standard reclining seats | Premium wider seats with extra legroom |
| Power Outlets | Yes | Yes |
| Free Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Complimentary Beverages | No | Yes (non-alcoholic) |
| Refundable Tickets | No (Saver/Value fares) | Yes (Flexible fares) |
| Quiet Car Access | Yes (on select trains) | Yes (on select trains) |
| Amtrak Guest Rewards Points | Standard rate | 25% bonus points |
| Price vs. Coach | Base price | Typically 30-60% more |
| Best For | Budget travelers, short trips | Business travelers, special occasions |
What About Sleeper Cars?
Long-distance trains, like the Empire Builder and Borealis, have Business Class and also offer a Sleeping Car:
| Sleeper Option | Features | Meals Included? |
| Roomette | 2 reclining seats that convert to beds, shared shower | Yes – all meals in dining car |
| Bedroom | Larger private room, in-suite toilet & shower | Yes – all meals in dining car |
| Accessible Bedroom | Ground-floor accessible room | Yes – all meals in dining car |
For all-night travels to Milwaukee (like from Seattle or Minneapolis), a Roomette makes the trip more about the experience of travel, rather than just a way of getting from Point A to Point B.
Milwaukee Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Station Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Official Name | Milwaukee Intermodal Station |
| Amtrak Station Code | MKE |
| Address | 433 W. St. Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203 |
| Phone | (414) 271-0840 |
| Hours | Open daily – check Amtrak.com for staffed hours |
Station Facilities
| Facility | Available? |
| Ticket Office / Agent | Yes – staffed station |
| Waiting Room | Yes – large, comfortable |
| Checked Baggage | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes (ADA accessible) |
| Free Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Parking | Yes – nearby lots and metered street parking |
| Taxi / Rideshare Pickup | Yes – designated pickup area |
| Bus Connections (MCTS) | Yes – multiple routes |
| The Hop Streetcar | Nearby stop |
| Food & Beverages | Vending machines; restaurants within walking distance |
| Accessibility Features | Fully ADA compliant – elevators, accessible restrooms, staff assistance |
| Bike Storage | Yes |
Getting from Milwaukee Intermodal Station to Downtown
The station’s location at 433 W. St. Paul Avenue is just a few 15 minutes away from Milwaukee’s best-known neighborhood and tourist attractions.
- Historical Third Ward: 5-minute walk
- Fiserv Forum (Bucks Arena) 10 minutes walk
- Milwaukee Art Museum: ~15-minute walk, or a short rideshare
- Milwaukee River walk: 5-minute walk
Transportation Options from the Station:
| Option | Cost | Best For |
| The Hop Streetcar | Free | Quick downtown hops |
| MCTS City Bus | $2 | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Uber / Lyft | $8-$18 | Convenience, late night |
| Taxi | $10-$20 | Immediate availability |
| Walk | Free | Nearby downtown areas |
| Bike Share (Bulbar Bikes) | $5-$15/day | Active travelers |
How to Book Train Tickets to Milwaukee: Step-by-Step Guide
The process of booking your Milwaukee train tickets is easy and simple. These are the options available:
Option 1: Book Online at Amtrak.com (Recommended)
- Visit amtrak.com
- Click “Find Trains” or “Find Train” within the navigation bar that is in the middle.
- Select your city of departure and Milwaukee, WI (MKE) as the destination.
- Pick your preferred travel date as well as the number of passengers
- Click “Find Trains” to view all departure times available
- Select your train of choice and fare (Saver Value, Value, Flexible, or Business)
- Sign in to the Amtrak Guest Rewards account, or remain a guest
- Input the details of your passenger and payment details.
- Make sure you confirm your reservation – your ticket will be sent via email to you immediately.y
- Display your e-ticket on your smartphone at the station. There is no need to print it.
Option 2: Amtrak App (iOS & Android)
Install the no-cost Amtrak app, and then take the same steps. It also offers real-time train tracking in real time, delay alerts, and simple ticket management – all at one spot.
Option 3: Call Amtrak
Contact 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) to make a reservation or an appointment with a live person. Be aware that a modest charge for bookings may be charged for telephone reservations.
Option 4: At the Station Ticket Window
Tickets for walk-ups are sold in Milwaukee Intermodal Station’s ticket counter; prices for walk-up tickets are generally higher than the advance prices online.
Smart Booking Tips
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Book 4-8 weeks ahead | Saver fares are limited and sell out early |
| Create a Guest Rewards account | Earn free travel points on every trip |
| Book connecting trips as one ticket | Amtrak will rebook you if you miss a connection |
| Check “Deals” section on Amtrak.com | Weekly specials and flash sales appear here |
| Use the Multi-Ride option | Frequent Chicago-Milwaukee travelers save with 10-ride passes |
Milwaukee Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Ticket Price Guide by Route
| Route | Saver Coach | Flexible Coach | Business Class | Roomette Sleeper |
| Chicago → Milwaukee | $20 – $35 | $45 – $65 | $35 – $55 | N/A |
| Minneapolis → Milwaukee | $35 – $70 | $80 – $130 | N/A | $180 – $380 |
| New York → Milwaukee | $85 – $170 | $150 – $260 | $160 – $310 | $300 – $520 |
| Seattle → Milwaukee | $120 – $210 | $200 – $360 | N/A | $420 – $750+ |
| Washington D.C. → Milwaukee | $90 – $175 | $160 – $270 | $170 – $320 | $310 – $530 |
Note: Prices fluctuate based on demand, booking time, and season. Always check amtrak.com for current fares.
Understanding Amtrak Fare Types
| Fare Type | Refundable? | Change Fee? | Best For |
| Saver | No | Not changeable | Flexible budget travelers |
| Value | Partial credit | Yes, with fee | Most everyday travelers |
| Flexible | Yes – full refund | No fee | Business trips, uncertain plans |
| Business Class | Yes | No fee | Short-haul premium comfort |
| Sleeper | Mostly refundable | Varies | Long overnight journeys |
Ways to Save Money on Milwaukee Train Tickets
Get your tickets as soon as possible. The cheapest rates are first released and then disappear quickly. Planning 6-8 weeks usually unlocks the lowest rates.
1. Traveling mid-week: On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday morning, departing times are usually cheaper than Saturday-Friday travel.
2. AAA Member Discount: AAA members get 10% off most Amtrak fares. Use your AAA card to book or input the discount code while making a reservation.
3. Senior Discount (65+) – Passengers aged who are 65 or older get 10% off all fares.
4. Student Discount: -Students who have an account with Student Advantage receive 10% discount. Register as a studentadvantage. comom
5. Children’s Fares: Ages 2-12, children travel at 50% off the adult price when traveling with one adult.
6. Amtrak Guest Rewards: Join for free to receive 2 points for every dollar you spend on Amtrak. Rewards can be exchanged for complimentary travel, upgrades,s and much more.
7. Keep an eye out for Flash Sales Watch out for Flash Sales: – Amtrak has limited-time offers all through the entire year. Follow @Amtrak on social networks or subscribe to emails to be alerted to deals.
Best Time to Visit Milwaukee by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
Milwaukee is a year-round destination, each season offering a unique experience for visitors:
| Season | Typical Weather | Top Attractions & Events | Train Demand | Avg. Fare Level |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 35-62°F | Milwaukee Art Museum, Cherry Blossoms, Brewers Opening Day | Moderate | Medium |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 65-85°F | SummeFestst, Lakefront Festival, German Fest | High | Higher |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 38-65°F | Oktoberfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, fall foliage | Moderate-High | Medium |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 10-32°F | Holiday Markets, Milwaukee Public Museum, quieter city | Low | Lowest |
Summer: Peak Season
Milwaukee summers bring fun to the nth degree: Summerfest, the largest music festival in the world, is hosted lakeside and brings a huge influx to the city every June and July. During the festival, Hiawatha train tickets sell out weeks in advance. Book travel for Milwaukee summers at least 6-8 weeks in advance.
Fall: The Sweet Spot
Fall may be Milwaukee’s most inviting season for visitors: The weather is pleasant, Milwaukee Oktoberfest and the craft beer festival are going on, and train fares drop from the summer peak. The flourishing foliage on the tree-lined streets and the best art exhibits of the year at the Milwaukee Art Museum mark the season.
Winter: Best Deals
Wisconsin may be known for its frigid winters, but Milwaukee is a thriving holiday destination. Breweries and holiday markets open their taps for warm winter drinks, the Milwaukee Public Museum launches winter special exhibits, and Milwaukee is a bargain winter travel destination with the lowest airfare of the year.
Spring: Shoulder Season
Spring weather is milder with gradual blooms in the parks, and so go the Milwaukee residents. Fares are reasonable, crowds are manageable, and the city begins to offer more seasonal brew tours and outdoor events that culminate in Milwaukee Brewers home games at American Family Field.
Train vs. Bus vs. Car to Milwaukee: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
| Factor | Train (Amtrak) | Bus (Greyhound/Fix Bus) | Car (Personal) |
| Travel Time from Chicago | ~90 minutes | ~2-2.5 hours | ~1.5-3 hrs (traffic-dependent) |
| Cost from Chicago | $20-$65 | $10-$30 | ~$15-$25 gas + tolls + parking |
| Comfort Level | High – spacious seats, café car | Low to Medium | Variable |
| Scenic Experience | Excellent – lake views | Limited | I-94 highway |
| City-Center Arrival | Yes – downtown station | Yes – near downtown | No – parking required |
| Eco-Friendliness | Best | Good | Least |
| Wi-Fi & Power | Yes | Sometimes | N/A |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Fixed schedule | Fully flexible |
| Downtown Parking Cost | N/A | N/A | $15-$30/day |
| Luggage Handling | Generous allowance | Limited | Unlimited |
| Best For | Comfort + value travel | Absolute minimum budget | Groups, road trips, multiple stops |
The Verdict
Hiawatha wins almost every factor assessed for the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor. While a budget bus ticket costs $10-$20, and an Amtrak coach ticket costs $20-$35, there isn’t much price difference, but the difference in comfort, reliability, and experience is huge.
It is much harder to justify driving to Milwaukee when tolls, gas, and parking (potentially $25-30 a day) are taken into account. The train delivers you stress-free downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a direct Amtrak train that goes to Milwaukee?
Yes! Hiawatha (Chicago), Empire Builder (Seattle/Portland), and Borealis (Minneapolis). All three stop right at Milwaukee,e and no transfer is necessary.
2. How long will the train journey from Chicago to Milwaukee take?
Approximately 90 minutes of the Hiawatha Service, with up to seven round-trip per day.
3: What’s the name of the Milwaukee train station referred to?
Milwaukee Intermodal Station (code: MKE) is located on 433 W. St. Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203.
4: How much will a Milwaukee train ticket cost from Chicago?
Savings Coach begins at $20-$35, Flexible Coach is $45-$65, and Business Class is $35 to $55.
5: Should I use a train to travel from New York City to Milwaukee?
Yes. Take the Lake Shore Limited to Chicago, then connect with the Hiawatha. The total journey time is between 21 and 26 hours.
6: Is there parking at the Milwaukee Intermodal Station? Does Milwaukee Intermodal Station have parking?
Yes, metered street parking, as well as nearby garages, are priced between $10 and $25 for a day.
7: Do you know if sleeper trains are going to Milwaukee?
Yes! Empire Builder and Borealis offer Roomette as well as Bedroom Sleeper choices, including all meals.
8: What’s the baggage policy for trains going to Milwaukee?
Two carry-on bags are free (up to 50lbs per) along with 2 personal items. Checked baggage costs $20-$30 per bag.
9: How can I travel from the Milwaukee Station to Downtown?
Take a walk, take The Hop (free streetcar) Take the MCTS, or utilize Uber or Lyft. It’s easy to get around. Historic Third Ward is just 5 minutes from the city.
10: Is traveling by train from Milwaukee secure?
Yes, Milwaukee Intermodal Station can be described as contemporary, equipped, well-lit, and has a staff of well-trained. The standard travel knowledge applies.