Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI bus with Amtrak

Mon, Dec 15
+ Add return
Amtrak
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI

Showing times and prices for Dec 15

Cheapest price

$42

Average price

$42

Fastest journey

4 h 30 m

Average duration

4 h 30 m

Buses per day

1

Distance

275 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.

Fast buses

Of the 1 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Appleton, WI on Mon, Dec 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Dec 15 the direct buses cover the 275 km distance in an average of 4 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 30 m .

On Mon, Dec 15 the slowest buses will take 4 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

FlixBusFlixBus
12:00PM4h30
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
04:30PMAppleton, Transit Center
$421One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €23, and a flight costs an average of €237.

Distance: 170 miles (275 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight

€42

Average price

Cheapest

€269

Average price

4h 28m

Average total duration

3h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 5m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:00PM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$42

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI buses for tomorrow, Monday, December 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 5:42 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
meinfernbus_flixbus4:45 PM Chicago, IL
4h10
8:55 PM Appleton, WI0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbus5:00 PM Chicago, IL
4h30
9:30 PM Appleton, WI0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI by bus or flight

Compare 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.

Mon
Dec 15
Tue
Dec 16
Wed
Dec 17
Thu
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 (€23) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 05:31, the last at 17:08. The fastest bus covers the 170 miles (275 km) distance in 4h 3m.

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
Distance
170 miles (275 km)
Average bus duration
3h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€23)
Buses per day
3
Fastest bus
4h 3m
First bus
05:31
Last bus
17:08
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

Bus providers: Amtrak, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WIYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI with Amtrak, FlixBus for as low as $29 (€23). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€45)
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 bus
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

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€23)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Appleton, WI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI can start from as little as $59 (€47) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI is $68 (€55); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI bus travel time is 4 h 3 min   for the 171 mile (275 km) long journey, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI leaves at 5: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI leaves at 5: 08PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI which require at least one change with GTG. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI, you can count on GTG for the best way to get you to Appleton, WI. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Appleton, WI from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 3 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI by bus is September.
Yes, you can take a bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.
No, the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Appleton, WI are:
  • Hearthstone Historic House Museum, a preserved Victorian mansion showcasing original Thomas Edison light fixtures
  • The Building for Kids Children's Museum, an interactive museum offering hands-on exhibits for children
  • Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, a venue hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances
  • Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve, a natural area with trails for hiking and wildlife observation
  • History Museum at the Castle, a museum featuring exhibits on local history and the life of magician Harry Houdini.
The best things to do in Appleton, WI include:
  • Fox River Mall, a large shopping center with a wide range of retail stores and dining options
  • High Cliff State Park, offering scenic views, hiking trails, and opportunities for picnicking and camping
  • Appleton Beer Factory, a local brewery offering tours and tastings of craft beers
  • Trout Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events
  • Badger Sports Park, featuring mini-golf, go-karts, and other family-friendly activities.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.
    No, luggage for the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI

    Chicago
    Appleton
    The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip from Chicago to Appleton.
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    information

    More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Appleton, WI

    Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

    Most popular bus connections to Appleton, WI

    HomeBusesBuses in USAChicago, IL to Appleton, WI bus

    The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

    We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

    ios-badge
    android-badge
    Hand With Phone