How to get here

Commutable airports to Madison, WI

Traveling to celebrate with us? Here are the closest airports to help you get here comfortably.

  • This is the most convenient airport for getting to Madison, though flights may be a bit more expensive. It’s easy and quick to take an Uber from the airport to nearby hotels.

  • Chicago O’Hare (ORD) is usually the cheapest airport option, though it’s about a 2-hour commute to Madison, WI. You can take the Van Galder bus directly from ORD to Madison, but you’ll need to take the airport tram over to the Multi-Modal Facility for rental cars or bus pick-ups.

  • Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is a more affordable option than Dane County Regional Airport and only about an hour’s drive from Madison. You can take the Badger Bus directly from the airport to Madison, or opt to rent a car or arrange other transportation to complete the trip easily.

Rental car options

Easily explore Madison and the surrounding areas with convenient rental car options - though the city is very commutable by e-bike or Uber, so rentals are best for those looking for extra convenience.

  • The most convenient option for air travelers arriving in Madison. All major rental agencies have offices directly across from baggage claim:

    • Budget: 1136 E Washington Ave. (608) 251-2181

    • Avis: 1136 E Washington Ave (608) 251-1717

    • Enterprise: Various locations, including 444 W Beltline Hwy (608) 260-0063

    • Hertz: State Street Capitol Garage (608) 266-4761

  • Often the most economical flight option, though it's approximately a 2-hour drive to Madison. ORD offers a wide range of rental car companies, all located at the Multi-Modal Facility accessible via the Airport Tram System (ATS):

  • A budget-friendly alternative, located about 1 hour from Madison. MKE offers several rental car companies, all located on-site:

Bus companies

Convenient and affordable bus options for getting to Madison from nearby major airports.

    • Route: Madison ⇄ Chicago O’Hare & Chicago Downtown

    • Great for: Direct airport transfers from O'Hare

    • Stops in Madison: UW Campus (N. Lake St) & Dutch Mill Park & Ride

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  • Badger Bus

    • Route: Madison ⇄ Milwaukee (including Mitchell Airport), Minneapolis (weekends), and other Wisconsin towns

    • Great for: Travelers from Milwaukee airport

    Visit website

Looking for accommodations in Madison, WI? We put together a list.

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