How to Take Amtrak to the 2025 Wisconsin State Fair

Are you planning a trip to the Wisconsin State Fair? Amtrak offers convenient routes to Milwaukee, the gateway to this iconic event. Whether traveling from nearby cities or further away, here’s everything you need to know about reaching the Fair by train.

The Wisconsin State Fair is from July 31 to August 10, 2025!

Amtrak Routes and Trains

If you’re considering taking Amtrak to the Wisconsin State Fair, you have several options. Three trains and one connecting bus route can take you to Brew City.

Booking tip: When booking, there are three Amtrak codes, but the one you need is MKE.

• Borealis: A comfortable and scenic route with modern amenities, traveling between the Twin Cities and Chicago.
  • Departure: Offers a daily round trip.
  • Arrival: Arrives in Milwaukee in the early afternoon from Chicago, perfect for heading straight to the Fair.
  • Fares: Typically range from $30 to $70, depending on the booking time, class, and where you are starting from

• Hiawatha: A frequent and convenient service between Chicago and Milwaukee.
  • Departure: Multiple daily departures from Chicago’s Union Station.
  • Arrival: Reaches Milwaukee in about 1.5 hours from Chicago.
  • Fares: Typically range from $25 to $35 for a one-way ticket.

• Empire Builder: A long-distance train traverses beautiful landscapes from the Pacific Northwest to Chicago, stopping in Milwaukee.
  • Departure: from Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis, and more.
  • Arrival: Arrives in Milwaukee after a scenic journey through the northern United States.
  • Fares can vary significantly depending on the distance traveled, the time of booking, and the type of accommodation desired.

• Amtrak Connecting services: Amtrak’s bus line connects the Fox Valley and Milwaukee.
  • Departures: Green Bay, De Pere, Appleton, Oshkosh, and Fond du Lac
  • Arrival: You can arrive early in the morning or come down in the early evening.
  • Fares: From Green Bay, tickets start at $28
  • Note: For more information and the schedule, please refer to the bottom of the Hiawatha page.

Onboard Amenities

Amenities can vary based on the train or bus you take.

• Wi-Fi: Available on the Hiawatha and Borealis trains, as well as the Connecting Service Bus, to stay connected.
• Cafe and Dining cars: The Hiawatha and Connecting Service Bus do not offer food service. However, you can enjoy meals and snacks during your Borealis and Empire Builder trips. Both trains have cars, and the Empire Builder also has a dining car.
• Seats: Spacious and comfortable seating with ample legroom.
• Scenic Views: Large windows provide an unobstructed view of the passing landscape.

Train Travel Tips

• Book Early: Secure the best fares by booking as soon as possible.
• Pack Smart: Bring snacks, entertainment, and a pillow for a more comfortable trip.
• Stay Informed: Check the Amtrak app or website for real-time updates on your train’s status.

Getting to the Fair

Amtrak does not drop you off at the Wisconsin State Fair but takes you to Milwaukee Intermodal Station, the city’s surface transportation hub.

Once you arrive at the Milwaukee Intermodal Station, getting to the Wisconsin State Fairgrounds is easy:

• Local Transit: The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) offers direct routes to the Fair.
• Shuttles: Special shuttle services may be available during the Fair. Check if your hotel, local bar, or restaurant offers shuttle services.
• Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are convenient options.

Rent a car

If you’re considering renting a car during your visit, arrange to get dropped off at the Gen Mitchell Airport Amtrak Station, MKA. From there, you can take the free shuttle to the airport, where several car rental companies are located at the terminal. Note that the Empire Builder does not stop at this depot. Here are the car rental companies at Milwaukee Gen Mitchell International Airport.

Lodging for a visit to the Fair

If you are coming in from out of town, you may need to get lodging. Some of these could provide shuttle service to and from the State Fair. Here is a list of hotels suggested by the Wisconsin State Fair.

About the Wisconsin State Fair

The Wisconsin State Fair, dating back to 1851, is a must-visit event from July 31 to August 10, 2025. If you have never been to Wisconsin, it’s a great way to experience what the Dairy State has to offer.

The fair is great for beer, corn on the cob, cream puffs, and deep-fried treats. Don’t forget your antacids!

It features:

• Exhibits: Agricultural displays, crafts, and educational exhibits.
• Food and shopping: What is a fair without things to buy that you didn’t know you needed, as well as iconic fair foods, including the famous cream puffs?
• Entertainment: Live music, rides, and shows for all ages.

For more details, visit the official Wisconsin State Fair website.

You can purchase your tickets in advance, and be sure to visit the Fair’s Deals and Discounts page for additional savings opportunities.

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Personal Experience

As a seasoned Amtrak traveler, I find train journeys a fantastic way to start a trip to the Wisconsin State Fair. Amtrak’s convenience and comfort make the travel part of the adventure. Arriving relaxed and ready to enjoy all the Fair offers is a great feeling!

When planning your trip, ensure you allow yourself plenty of flexibility to accommodate delays and travel back and forth.

The links on this page are not endorsements; I have provided them as a courtesy to readers.

Safe Travels and happy planning!

Kev