Rhinelander
Rhinelander
Wisconsin Rapids
Wisconsin Rapids
Driving

Rhinelander to Wisconsin Rapids

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Rhinelander to Wisconsin Rapids is approximately 130 kilometers. You will primarily follow US-51 South and WI-54 West, which takes about 1.5 hours. This is a scenic drive through the Wisconsin countryside. Wisconsin Rapids is located on the Wisconsin River. The route is well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Total Distance: 130 km driving, 110 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method, taking about 1.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the only practical way to travel between these cities.
Compare Rhinelander to Wisconsin Rapids Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price
$15 - $25 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
US-51 S to WI-54 W.

Be careful of deer on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.

Travel Tips
  • Parking
    Parking is generally easy in Wisconsin Rapids.
  • Dining
    Explore the restaurants in downtown Wisconsin Rapids.
  • Walking
    The downtown area is very walkable.
  • Navigation
    Use GPS to navigate the city streets.
  • Events
    Check the local calendar for events.
Safety Tips
  • Traffic
    Be aware of winter road conditions.
  • Vehicle Security
    Lock your car and remove valuables.
  • Emergency
    Keep emergency contacts saved in your phone.
  • Night Safety
    Stick to well-lit areas at night.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train?
    No, there is no train service between these cities.
  • How long is the drive?
    About 1.5 hours via US-51 and WI-54.
  • Are there tolls?
    No tolls on this route.
  • Is Wisconsin Rapids safe?
    Yes, it is generally safe.
  • What is the best time to visit?
    Summer is great for the river.
Quick Info
  • From Rhinelander, Wisconsin, United States
  • To Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to August for river activities.

Things to Do in Wisconsin Rapids
1
South Wood County Park
A beautiful park on the Wisconsin River.
2
Wisconsin Rapids Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
A great resource for local information.
3
Alexander House Center for Art & History
A historic home and art center.
4
Downtown Wisconsin Rapids
The downtown area with shops and restaurants.
Tags
Rhinelander to Wisconsin Rapids drive driving in Wisconsin US-51 to WI-54 route Rhinelander WI to Wisconsin Rapids WI road trip Wisconsin Wisconsin Rapids travel guide best route to Wisconsin Rapids Wisconsin travel
More from Rhinelander
Appleton
Rhinelander → Appleton
Milwaukee
Rhinelander → Milwaukee
Madison
Rhinelander → Madison
Minneapolis
Rhinelander → Minneapolis
Chicago
Rhinelander → Chicago
Eau Claire
Rhinelander → Eau Claire
Duluth
Rhinelander → Duluth
Oshkosh
Rhinelander → Oshkosh
Stevens Point
Rhinelander → Stevens Point
Marshfield
Rhinelander → Marshfield