Cheap train tickets from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI
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Trip Summary
There are usually 6 daily train trips available from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI. Traveling by train from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI usually takes 10 hours and 43 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 8 hours and 16 minutes.
- Distance
- 274 mi (440 km)
- Fastest train
- 8h 16m
- Lowest price
- $82.00
- Trains per day
- 6
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 1
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Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI?
There is usually 1 daily bus trip available from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$129.83 | Avg. Price$65.16Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips6 | Daily Trips1 |
Duration | Duration10h 43m | Duration10h 33mFaster |

There are several train options that can take you from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI?
In the last month, train tickets from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI cost about $120 when booked at the cheapest time. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 2 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $28.75 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Prices as travel date approaches
Which train should you take from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI. However, there are 6 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 6 | 10h 43m | $129.83 |
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI
While the train is the main method of transportation from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI, it will only take you part of the way there. Please note that part of your trip will be on a different vehicle, most commonly a bus or express shuttle.
There are 6 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Ann Arbor, MI to Rockford, IL. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI for $40.
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
0
The distance between Rockford, IL and Ann Arbor, MI is approximately 274 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 10 hours and 43 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 8 hours and 16 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)
274
Distance (km)
440
The earliest train departs Rockford, IL at 7:20 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 6:20 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
7:20am
Last train
6:20pm
Trains from Rockford, IL to Ann Arbor, MI are the most crowded on Monday. 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Monday
Least crowded
Monday
City Information
Rockford



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.
Ann Arbor



Ann Arbor is a quirky city filled with interesting secrets for curious travelers. The first thing to do in Ann Arbor is to check out its crown jewel, the University of Michigan. Boasting as many as 30 libraries and more than 16 museums, the university will fulfill every culturally-inclined traveler’s desires with ease. Nature lovers who enjoy a breath of fresh air should consider hopping on the Huron River Water Trail, which offers plenty of opportunities for paddling. Also don’t miss out on a show at the famous Michigan Theater, which offers retro shows and live acts.
Travelers can enjoy an authentic Ann Arbor culinary experience at Kerrytown, a historic quarter in the city. Located there are the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, as well as Zingerman’s Deli, both of which are local favorites.
The Amtrak station at 325 Depot St serves as the city’s main hub for both bus and train travel. From the station you can catch a bus or train to various cities such as Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and beyond. Ann Arbor is served by Amtrak’s Wolverine line. The city’s main airport is the Ann Arbor Municipal Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Rockford, IL?
Main departure station: Van Galder Bus Office
The Van Galder Bus Office is located just off Interstate 90 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.
All train stations in Rockford, IL:
- Van Galder Bus Office
Where is the train station in Ann Arbor, MI?
Main arrival station: 325 Depot St - Amtrak Station


The Ann Arbor Amtrak Station is located in the downtown area of Ann Arbor at 325 Depot St and handles most of the city’s rail transportation. The station is served by the Wolverine line, which runs from Pontiac to Chicago three times each day. Intercity bus service from Barons Bus Lines, Miller Transportation, and Greyhound also stop at the Depot St station. Metered parking is available on-site, and the station building includes public restrooms and a convenient taxi stand. Several restaurants are in the surrounding area, and if you have time to kill before your train, take a short walk to the scenic Broadway Park along Huron River.
All train stations in Ann Arbor, MI:
- 325 Depot St - Amtrak Station
Need a return trip from Ann Arbor, MI to Rockford, IL?
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