So, You Want to Ride the Brew City Buses: A Penny-Pinching Guide
Ah, Milwaukee! City of festivals, cheese curds, and...well, let's be honest, sometimes you just need to get from Point A to Point B without breaking the bank (or your precious cheese curd budget). Enter the Milwaukee County Transit System, also known as MCTS, your trusty steed on wheels. But before you hop on and yell "Hold the cheese curds, I mean, doors please!", let's talk turkey about fares.
 |
| How Much Is The City Bus In Milwaukee |
The Fare Deal: How Much You Ask?
Here's the skinny: a single ride on the MCTS will set you back a cool $2.00 if you're paying with a WisGo card or using the Umo app (think of them as your magic bus tickets). That sweet price also includes a 90-minute transfer, so you can basically become a temporary Milwaukee subway whiz, zipping around town like a cheese curd-loving superhero.
Feeling frugal? Don't worry, budget warriors, MCTS has your back! Riders 6 to 11 years old, 65 and over, and those with qualifying disabilities can snag a discounted fare of just $1.00 per ride with your WisGo card or Umo app. That's practically a steal in this day and age (and who can resist a good deal, especially when cheese curds are involved?).
Cash is still your king (or queen)? No problem, they accept that too. Just be prepared to hand over the exact amount, because drivers ain't exactly running a cheese curd exchange program (although, wouldn't that be something?).
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
Here's the important part (and the reason you probably skipped to this section):
- Regular Adult Fare (WisGo/Umo app or cash): $2.00 (includes 90-minute transfer)
- Discounted Fare (WisGo/Umo app): $1.00 (6-11 years old, 65+, and riders with qualifying disabilities)
Remember: Prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the MCTS website (
Bonus Round: Be a Fare-Savvy Fox!
Alright, you're practically a Milwaukee public transportation guru now! But wait, there's more! Here are some ways to be a complete fare-savvy fox:
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
- Get a WisGo card or use the Umo app: Not only is it convenient, but you also get that sweet $2.00 fare with a transfer.
- Consider a pass: If you're a frequent rider, a weekly or monthly pass might be your best bet.
- Buddy Up: Feeling social? The more the merrier, and splitting a cab might be cheaper than multiple bus fares (especially if cheese curds are involved).
Now you're ready to roam the streets of Milwaukee like a public transportation pro!
Frequently Asked Questions (The Cheese Curd Edition)
How to get a WisGo card?
WisGo cards can be purchased at various locations around Milwaukee County. Check the MCTS website for details.
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
 |
How to use the Umo app?
Download the Umo app on your smartphone, add funds, and you're good to go!
How to avoid a grumpy bus driver?
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
Be polite, have your fare ready, and avoid asking for cheese curds (they probably don't have any).
How to impress your friends with your Milwaukee knowledge?
Tell them you know how to navigate the bus system like a pro (and maybe share some cheese curds).
How to score the best cheese curds in Milwaukee?
That, my friend, is a whole other adventure! (But seriously, ask a local, they'll know the good stuff).
 |
