Train from Philadelphia to La Crosse

Air Travel

• Companies: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines
• Duration: Approximately 6 hours (including layover)
• Distance: 800 miles
• Costs: £150-£300 (depending on booking class and time of purchase)
• Roads/Routes: Not applicable

Pro Tip: Book your flights at least 2 months in advance to secure the best rates and consider mid-week flights for lower prices.

To ensure a smooth journey, I recommend taking a flight from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and then taking a connecting flight to La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE).

Train Travel

• Companies: Amtrak
• Duration: Approximately 18 hours
• Distance: 900 miles
• Costs: £130-£250 (standard fare depending on travel class)
• Roads/Routes: Amtrak’s Cardinal route along the scenic Ohio River may be part of your journey, especially if starting from Philadelphia.

Pro Tip: Book a roomette for overnight journeys for added privacy and comfort, including meals.

If you prefer a scenic trip, take the Amtrak Cardinal route from Philadelphia through to Chicago and then connect to the Empire Builder heading towards La Crosse.

Road Travel

• Companies: [Car Hire: Enterprise, Hertz, Budget]
• Duration: Approximately 12 hours
• Distance: 900 miles
• Costs: £90-£150 (depending on rental rates plus fuel costs)
• Roads/Routes: I-76 W, I-80 W, I-35 N, I-90 W

Pro Tip: Make sure to take breaks along the I-80 route for some iconic roadside attractions such as the World's Largest Truck Stop.

Driving from Philadelphia to La Crosse offers you the freedom to explore small towns and attractions along the way. Consider making pit stops in cities like Pittsburgh and Madison for a full experience.

Recommendation

I recommend the air travel option for the fastest and most efficient way to reach La Crosse from Philadelphia, especially if time is a crucial factor. Keeping flexibility with your travel dates can help secure the best flight fares. However, if you're inclined towards a more picturesque route, taking the train could provide a unique experience at the cost of additional travel time.