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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Grand Rapids
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Grand Rapids. Traveling by train from Chicago to Grand Rapids usually takes 5 hours and 47 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Pere Marquette train can make the trip in 4 hours and 4 minutes.
- Distance
- 125 mi (201 km)
- Fastest train
- 4h 4m
- Lowest price
- RON 143.77
- Trains per day
- 3
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Grand Rapids Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Grand Rapids?
There is usually 1 daily bus trip available from Chicago to Grand Rapids.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceRON 260.46Cheaper | Avg. PriceRON 773.13 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips3 | Daily Trips1 |
Duration | Duration5h 47m | Duration4h 21mFaster |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Grand Rapids (Based on 29 ratings and reviews)
5.0
4.0
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5.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Grand Rapids:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Grand Rapids?
In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Grand Rapids cost about RON 216 when booked at the cheapest time. Compared to most train fares, this is an excellent price. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 13 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around RON 81.71 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Grand Rapids by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Grand Rapids will cost between RON 177 and RON 431. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Grand Rapids by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Grand Rapids often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only RON 220. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Grand Rapids during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of RON 292 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Grand Rapids on Wanderu at least 13 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 81.71 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Grand Rapids?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Grand Rapids. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 6h 45m | RON 270.66 |
| Amtrak Pere Marquette | 1 | 4h 4m | RON 242.19 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Grand Rapids every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from RON 186.90.
Named after a famous French explorer, the Amtrak Pere Marquette is a train route from Grand Rapids to Chicago. The Pere Marquette travels from Chicago to Grand Rapids in about 4 hours and 4 minutes. Trains include onboard WiFi, a cafe car, and a quiet car ideal for sleeping or working. The Pere Marquette is consistently rated highly for its timely service and quality train cars by passengers traveling to Grand Rapids.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Grand Rapids
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Grand Rapids. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.
There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Grand Rapids. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from Grand Rapids to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Grand Rapids for RON 719.
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and Grand Rapids is approximately 125 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 5 hours and 47 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 4 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.
Distance (mi)
125
Distance (km)
201
The earliest train departs Chicago at 6:45 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 6:30 PM. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
First train
6:45am
Last train
6:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Grand Rapids are the most crowded on Saturday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Saturday
Least crowded
Wednesday
City Information
Chicago
Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.
You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.
Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
Grand Rapids
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Main departure station: Union Station
The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.
All train stations in Chicago:
- Union Station
Where is the train station in Grand Rapids?
Main arrival 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
Need a return trip from Grand Rapids to Chicago?
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