Chicago to Wausau: Road Trip Guide & Distance

235.3 miles 378.7 km · straight line
283.2 miles actual route 455.8 km · driving distance
5h 20min estimated drive time
$27 - $34 estimated fuel cost
~58min flight time
335° NNW bearing direction

How far is Chicago from Wausau?

The distance from Chicago to Wausau is 235.3 miles (378.7 km) as the crow flies. Wausau is located NNW of Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 283.2 miles, taking about 5h 20min. A direct flight would take roughly 58min. Both are located in United States — Chicago in Illinois and Wausau in Wisconsin.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for Chicago and Wausau. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Chicago to Wausau

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 20min $27 - $34 Flexible stops
Fly ~58min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 24min $23–$42* Budget
Train ~5h 4min $34–$99* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Chicago & Wausau

Quick Facts

Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation
Wausau
44.96°N, 89.63°W
America/Chicago
367m elevation
Explore more routes from Wausau

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 78 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 20 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 105.8 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM