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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Grand Rapids to San Diego. Traveling by train from Grand Rapids to San Diego usually takes around 58 hours, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 57 hours and 53 minutes.
| Distance | 1845 mi (2969 km) |
| Fastest train | 57h 53m |
| Lowest price | US$301.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Grand Rapids to San Diego?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Grand Rapids to San Diego. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 2d 10h 0m | US$301.50 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Grand Rapids to San Diego every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$301.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Grand Rapids and San Diego is approximately 1845 miles, or 2969 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 58 hours, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 57 hours and 53 minutes.
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Grand Rapids to San Diego on Friday. Tickets for Friday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Friday. Friday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Grand Rapids at 6:00am and arrives in San Diego around 57 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from San Diego to Grand Rapids.
City Information
Grand Rapids
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Blessed with unspoiled nature and a blossoming art scene, Grand Rapids is the perfect destination to enjoy a quick weekend getaway. To fully enjoy the vast swath of rolling hills and orchards the city has to offer, head towards Robinette's Apple Haus & Winery, where you can pick apples like a local and enjoy delicious regional wines. This location also features apple products such as apple ciders and apple pies, making it a true haven for foodies. If you wish to explore the historical values and heritage of the city, check out the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, which features plenty of memorabilia of the former president. For even more local produce, head to the Downtown Market.
Due to its proximity to nature, Grand Rapids offers the freshest local home-cooked dishes. Some notable local favorites include The Sovengard, which makes Scandinavian dishes using local ingredients, and six.one.six, an upscale establishment that offers French-inspired dishes similarly featuring local produce.
Grand Rapids includes bus and train service throughout the Midwest and beyond. The nearest airport is the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, located 9.4 miles from the city center.
San Diego
San Diego is known as "America's Finest City" for its sunny weather, white-sand beaches, and dazzling attractions from Belmont Park to SeaWorld. San Diego's 70 miles of pristine beaches include such gems as Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla Cove, and Coronado Beach. The city's strong surfing culture may even inspire you to rent a surfboard and catch the epic waves, bro.
Visitors can spend days getting lost in Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural hub which features 16 museums, immaculate gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The historic heart of the city, Old Town, showcases San Diego's heritage and ties to Mexican culture, while other sights like the USS Midway pay tribute to the city's military and maritime history. Leave time for some evening exploring, too! San Diego is rated the #1 best city for craft beer in America, so don't miss out on the bars in the Gaslamp Quarter: 16 walkable blocks packed with nightlife and young crowds.
Two airports, as well as many bus and train options, mean it is easy to get to San Diego from afar or from nearby cities like Tijuana, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Grand Rapids?
Image credit: Russell Sekeet
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Vernon J. Ehlers Station
Vernon J. Ehlers Station, opened in 2014 and named after Congressman Vernon Ehlers, is Grand Rapids' primary Amtrak station. It is the terminus of the Amtrak Pere Marquette line that begins in Chicago. The station building has a uniquely lit, red-brick clock tower that has become a landmark of the city and has a large waiting area, restrooms, and vending machines. Located a bit south of downtown, the train station is near a strip of charming antique stores, the Grand Rapids Ballet, and Heartside State Park.
All train stations in Grand Rapids:
Vernon J. Ehlers Station
Where is the train station in San Diego?
Main arrival station: 4005 Taylor St
San Diego receives travelers from Grand Rapids at its two active train stations.
Train stations in San Diego:
4005 Taylor St
Santa Fe Depot - 1050 Kettner Blvd
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