If you’re looking for a fast, comfortable, and affordable way to travel between Chicago and Milwaukee, the Amtrak Hiawatha Service is one of the best regional train options in the Midwest. Whether you’re a commuter, college student, business traveler, or weekend explorer, this popular Amtrak route offers a smooth ride, frequent departures, and easy station access.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Hiawatha train, including its route, station stops, daily schedule, ticket prices, and useful travel tips to help you plan and book your journey.
🚆 What Is the Amtrak Hiawatha Service?
The Amtrak Hiawatha Service is a high-frequency regional train route that connects Chicago Union Station in Illinois to Milwaukee Intermodal Station in Wisconsin. Covering about 86 miles, this route is one of the busiest corridors in the Amtrak system.
The train is jointly supported by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). It’s a favorite among daily commuters and weekend travelers alike because of its speed, reliability, and affordability.
With multiple departures every day, the Hiawatha Service is perfect for short business trips, attending events in the city, catching a flight at the airport, or simply avoiding traffic on I-94.
🗺️ Route Overview & Station Stops
The Amtrak Hiawatha route features just a few well-placed stops, making the trip quick and efficient. Trains run directly between downtown Chicago and downtown Milwaukee with three intermediate stops.
Hiawatha Service Stations (South to North):
- Chicago Union Station (CHI) – The central hub of Amtrak’s Midwest operations, located in downtown Chicago.
- Glenview, IL (GLN) – A suburban station with easy parking and connections to the North Shore.
- Sturtevant, WI (SVT) – Serves the Racine/Kenosha area, with a modern station and ample parking.
- Milwaukee Airport (MKA) – A convenient stop near General Mitchell International Airport, connected via shuttle.
- Milwaukee Intermodal Station (MKE) – Final stop with connections to local buses, Greyhound, and other Amtrak routes.
This route is especially useful for people living in or visiting the Chicago suburbs, Southern Wisconsin, and those needing a train to or from Milwaukee Airport.
🕒 Hiawatha Service Train Schedule
The Hiawatha train schedule is designed for flexibility, with multiple daily round-trips in both directions. Whether you’re commuting or planning a same-day return, the frequent departures make travel simple.
Weekday Schedule (Monday–Friday):
- 7 daily round-trips between Chicago and Milwaukee
- First departure from Milwaukee: around 6:15 AM
- Last return from Chicago: around 8:00 PM
Weekend Schedule (Saturday–Sunday):
- 6 round-trips per day
- Service starts later in the morning and ends earlier in the evening
⏱ Travel time is consistent at 1 hour 29 minutes, making this one of Amtrak’s shortest and most efficient routes.
📱 For the most up-to-date departure times, check the Amtrak app or the official Hiawatha schedule.
💰 Hiawatha Ticket Prices & Fare Info
The Amtrak Hiawatha is known for its affordable pricing, especially for frequent travelers and those booking in advance. Prices vary slightly depending on time of day, availability, and special promotions.
Sample One-Way Fares:
- Chicago to Milwaukee: From $27 to $30
- Sturtevant to Chicago: Around $18–$22
- Milwaukee Airport to Glenview: Typically $15–$20
💼 Business Class seating is occasionally offered, depending on demand, and may include reserved seating and extra amenities.
Discount Options:
- Students with Student Advantage Card
- Seniors (65+)
- Children (ages 2–12) – 50% off with adult ticket
- Military personnel and families
- AAA Members
- Multi-ride and monthly passes – Great for commuters
🎟️ For the best fares, book early, avoid peak times, and use available discount codes when checking out.
🎟️ How to Book Amtrak Hiawatha Tickets
Booking your Hiawatha train ticket is quick and easy. You have multiple options depending on your preference:
How to Buy Tickets:
- Online at Amtrak.com
- Amtrak Mobile App – View schedules, buy tickets, and use eTickets
- By Phone – Call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
- At the Station – Ticket kiosks or ticket counters (select locations)
💳 Pro Tip: Use the Amtrak Guest Rewards program to earn points every time you ride, which you can redeem for future travel.
🧳 Onboard Experience: What to Expect on the Train
Although the Hiawatha is a short-distance train, it still offers many of the comforts you expect from Amtrak:
Onboard Amenities:
🚆 Comfortable, spacious seating
⚡ Power outlets at every seat
🌐 Free Wi-Fi access
🚻 Restrooms
🤫 Quiet Car available for peaceful travel
🚲 Bike racks available (reservation may be required)
The train does not include a full dining or café car, but you’re welcome to bring snacks and drinks onboard. Seating is first-come, first-served in Coach Class.
✈️ Easy Airport Access at Milwaukee
One of the most convenient features of the Hiawatha Service is the Milwaukee Airport Rail Station (MKA). Located near General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), it offers a free shuttle that runs regularly between the train station and airport terminal.
This makes the Hiawatha a smart choice for travelers flying in or out of Milwaukee who want to avoid parking fees or rental car costs.
👍 Helpful Tips for Hiawatha Travelers
To make the most of your trip, keep these tips in mind:
- 📅 Buy tickets early – Prices can go up closer to departure.
- 📱 Download the Amtrak app for mobile boarding, real-time train tracking, and alerts.
- 🚘 Use Glenview or Sturtevant stations for easier parking than downtown.
- 🧳 Pack light – Overhead storage is limited.
- 🔇 Use the Quiet Car if you need to work or relax without noise.
- 💵 Check for deals and passes if you’re a frequent rider.
🌟 Why Choose the Amtrak Hiawatha?
There are plenty of reasons why so many people love riding the Hiawatha between Milwaukee and Chicago:
✅ Reliable – Frequent, on-time departures
✅ Fast – Just 90 minutes between downtowns
✅ Affordable – Great pricing and discounts
✅ Comfortable – Spacious seating and free Wi-Fi
✅ Eco-Friendly – Lower your carbon footprint by riding the train
✅ Connected – Easy transfers to Metra, CTA, and airport shuttles
Whether you’re traveling for business, school, a concert, or a game, the Hiawatha makes the journey easy, comfortable, and surprisingly relaxing.
🧭 Final Thoughts
The Amtrak Hiawatha Service is one of the best train options in the Midwest, especially for anyone traveling between Chicago and Milwaukee. With its multiple daily trips, short travel time, low fares, and modern onboard experience, it’s a smart choice for both first-time and frequent travelers.
Ready to book your ride? Visit Amtrak.com or open the Amtrak app to find tickets, schedules, and exclusive deals.