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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Jackson to Rockford. The train trip from Jackson to Rockford is usually about 18 hours and 26 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 692 mi (1113 km) |
| Fastest train | 18h 26m |
| Lowest price | $182.20 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Jackson to Rockford?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Jackson to Rockford. 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 | 18h 26m | $182.20 |
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 Jackson to Rockford every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $182.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Jackson and Rockford is approximately 692 miles, or 1113 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 18 hours and 26 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.
Monday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Jackson to Rockford. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Monday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Monday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Jackson at 5:00pm and arrives in Rockford around 18 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 Rockford to Jackson.
City Information
Jackson
Image credit: Ken Lund
Link to image attributionThe City of Jackson (or just Jackson to friends) is the capital of Mississippi and the most populous city in the state. The town has fantastic museums and historical sites covering different topics, including civil rights, arts, natural sciences, and African-American culture. The Mississippi Freedom Trail runs through Jackson and displays several important historic sites in the civil rights movement. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science includes nature trails for hiking and an aquarium in a family-friendly location. Meanwhile, LeFleur's Bluff State Park & Mayes Lake is a popular spot for families and friends going fishing, camping, and golfing.
Despite the deep history, Jackson also offers a vibrant nightlife, attractions, and entertainment. In Downtown Jackson, often called the Heart of Mississippi's Metropolitan, you can explore restaurants for fine dining, sports bars, lounges, and clubs. Plus, there are art galleries and a growing number of local breweries and distilleries, like Fertile Ground and Bicentennial. Jackson is bustling with festivals, too, including antique shows, arts events, spring festivals, and the City of Jackson Holiday Parade.
Jackson offers excellent transport links within the city, with buses provided by JTRAN. In addition, you can easily visit Jackson via train service, primarily by Amtrak, or bus service by Jefferson Lines.
Rockford
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Located on the banks of the Rock River, Rockford is one of Illinois' best vacation destinations and the state's fourth-largest city. With its vast, green open spaces, golf courses, four rivers, and Rock Cut State Park, this city offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Rockford is often referred to as the City of Gardens, owing to its numerous beautifully-landscaped areas. The Anderson Japanese Gardens boasts the reputation of being one of the highest-quality Japanese gardens in North America, with picturesque water features and exotic plants; the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.
Head indoors to Rockford's museums on cooler days, including the Riverfront Museum Park and the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Finish the day with tickets for a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Centre and enjoy the atmospheric-style theatre and movie house's outstanding interior architecture.
Rockford is conveniently situated near three airports, Rockford International, Chicago O'Hare International, and Dane County Regional. Bus service runs from these airports and Union Station in Chicago to easily access the city. In addition, Amtrak Thruway buses connect Rockford to Amtrak's rail network, with destinations via train including Detroit, St. Louis, and even New York.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Jackson?
Main departure station: 300 W Capitol St
There is one train station in Jackson.
All train stations in Jackson:
300 W Capitol St
Where is the train station in Rockford?
Main arrival station: Van Galder Bus Office
The Van Galder Bus Office is located just off Interstate 51 in Rockford, Illinois. Although the bus stop doesn't have much in terms of amenities, it's in a resting area for road trips and buses. Grab coffee at the Starbucks, food at Burger King, or stay overnight in the Garden Inn just across the street. The terminal, which is operated by Van Galder Buses, services buses that run between Rockford and Madison, as well as Chicago O'Hare Airport and Union Station in downtown Chicago. Within the station building, there's a waiting room for you to enjoy your latte or burger, and a ticket kiosk if you have any questions about your trip.
Train stations in Rockford:
Van Galder Bus Office
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Need a return trip from Rockford to Jackson?
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