$38 Cheap Flights to Apple River, IL

Flights to Apple River at a glance

Traveling to Apple River is a breeze—simply choose between full-service and budget airlines, compare travel times, and select the option that best fits your budget and itinerary for exploring the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airports near Apple River: Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ)
• Closest airport to Apple River: Dubuque Regional Airport, DBQ (around 32 miles)
• Flights per week: 1,600+ flights arriving across Apple River airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Apple River: around 10+ carriers

Popular airports near Apple River

Apple River is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and romantic getaways. Travelers flock to Apple River for its stunning scenery and adventurous spirit. The city is conveniently accessible via two major airports, making travel easy for visitors.

• Dane County Regional Airport (MSN): Situated in Dane County, Wisconsin, approximately 58 miles from Apple River, this airport offers a mix of domestic and international flights. It connects to over 160 domestic cities and 25 international destinations, with options for travelers to upgrade to first class or premium economy for extra comfort, depending on their chosen airline. Major carriers include American Airlines, United, and Delta.
• Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ): Found in Dubuque County, Iowa, roughly 32 miles from Apple River, this airport primarily serves domestic routes. The key airline operating at this location is Key Lime DBA Denver Air Connection, providing travelers with essential connectivity.

Top routes to Apple River

• Denver (DEN) to Apple River (MSN), with one-way tickets available from around $85
• Orlando (MCO) to Apple River (MSN), with one-way fares starting at around $75
• Phoenix (PHX) to Apple River (MSN), with one-way airfare from around $80
• New York (JFK/LGA) to Apple River (MSN), with one-way flights starting at around $150
• Washington (IAD/DCA) to Apple River (MSN), with one-way flights starting at around $130

Cheapest routes to Apple River

• Chicago (ORD) to Apple River (DBQ/MSN), with cheap one-way fares from around $70
• Tampa (TPA) to Apple River (MSN), with low one-way fares from around $70
• Orlando (MCO) to Apple River (MSN), with affordable one-way prices from around $75
• Fort Myers (RSW) to Apple River (MSN), with affordable one-way prices from around $75
• Phoenix (PHX) to Apple River (MSN), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $80

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Apple River

• American Airlines: Providing service to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), American Airlines represents roughly 42% of arrivals at Apple River. The typical one-way fare is about $250, with the potential for first-class service based on the specific route.
• United: Operating flights to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), United accounts for around 30% of the arrivals into Apple River. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $280, with first-class service available on certain routes.
• Delta: Serving Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), Delta facilitates approximately 24% of arrivals to Apple River. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $280, with premium options including both premium economy and first-class service based on the route.
• Frontier Airlines: Operating to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), Frontier Airlines makes up about 2% of the arrivals at Apple River. Travelers can anticipate an average one-way fare of approximately $190.
• Breeze: Providing service to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), Breeze accounts for roughly 1% of arrivals at Apple River. The average one-way fare is about $120, making it an economical choice for some travelers.

Best time to fly to Apple River

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Apple River are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Apple River can reach up to 46.6°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 63.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $237), roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? August, October, and May offer average one-way fares of around $250, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Apple River

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Apple River is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Apple River hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Apple River flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Apple River

Apple River welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Apple River efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Dane County Regional Airport, Madison Station, a train station, is located about 7.2 miles away by car, while Madison Dutch Mill Park and Ride, a bus station, is situated approximately 9.2 miles away by car, providing convenient transport options for travelers.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Apple River, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Apple River is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Apple River on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Apple River

• Darlington: Located 13 miles away from Apple River, Darlington is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the stunning scenery at Yellowstone Lake State Park, ideal for hiking and nature walks, or discover local history at Pendarvis, a notable historic site. The area also features a recreational area and campground, making it a great base for those who love camping. Don’t miss the picturesque views around the lake and the vibrant tourist precinct, offering a unique blend of nature and culture.
• Warren: Situated 6 miles away from Apple River, Warren is a delightful city that beckons outdoor lovers and those in search of scenic beauty. The area is known for its recreational spots, including Apple Canyon Lake, which offers a romantic setting for beach outings and water activities. Adventure seekers can venture into Lake Le Aqua Na State Park for hiking and exploration. Additionally, the Apple River meanders through the town, providing excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures and photography, especially during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
• Gratiot: Gratiot is located 6 miles away from Apple River and is an appealing destination for those seeking romance and scenic outings. This quaint city features beautiful landscapes and a welcoming atmosphere, making it perfect for couples. Visitors can enjoy Apple Canyon Lake for its serene beach vibes and outdoor activities. The nearby Apple River Canyon State Park offers breathtaking views and adventure opportunities. With its recreational areas and charming neighborhoods, Gratiot provides a lovely escape for nature lovers and those looking to unwind.

Tips for short-haul flights to Apple River

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize your packing efficiency by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating your outfits. This approach also lets you bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—short-haul flights frequently lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to get to the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to your departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while saving money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Apple River

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, which is generally 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may provide the option to select seats even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if time allows, explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually complimentary and widely available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Apple River

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Apple River on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

October is the cheapest month to fly to Apple River. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Apple River. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Apple River, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Apple River

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Apple River in 2026 starts from $76, while one-way tickets start from from $38. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Apple River. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Apple River

Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta, United are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Apple River. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Apple River and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Apple River, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Apple River. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Apple River plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Apple River

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Apple River.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Apple River are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Apple River. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Apple River for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Apple River. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Apple River flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Apple River. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.