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Trip Summary
There are usually 6 daily train trips available from Rockford to Kalamazoo. Traveling by train from Rockford to Kalamazoo usually takes 6 hours and 47 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 5 hours and 6 minutes.
| Distance | 179 mi (288 km) |
| Fastest train | 5h 6m |
| Lowest price | $92.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Rockford to Kalamazoo?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Rockford to Kalamazoo. However, there are 6 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 6 | 6h 48m | $107.00 |
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 6 Amtrak trains from Rockford to Kalamazoo every day, as well as 6 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $92.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Rockford and Kalamazoo is approximately 179 miles, or 288 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 47 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 5 hours and 6 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 Rockford to Kalamazoo. 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.
The earliest train departs Rockford at 7:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 2:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
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 Kalamazoo to Rockford.
City Information
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.
Kalamazoo
Image credit: Michigan Municipal League
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Daniel X. O'Neil
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Michigan Municipal League
Link to image attributionAs an eclectic college town in Michigan, Kalamazoo is a vibrant city full of attractions and fun things to do. When visiting the town, don't miss the famous Kalamazoo Valley Museum, where you'll find history, technology, and science exhibitions. The star of the museum is a 2300-year-old mummy, along with other artifacts from ancient Egypt. Another great destination is the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, which features exhibitions of local up-and-rising artists. With its rolling hills and lush landscape, Kalamazoo Nature Center is an excellent choice for a nature walk or even a ride if you bring your bike on the bus or train.
Once you've worked up an appetite, prepare to enjoy Kalamazoo's dining scene. True to its name, Rustica boasts a homely vibe with its fantastic selection of cured meats and homemade cheese and an impressive selection of European wines. In addition, Principle Food and Drink's comfort food and creative cocktails are delicious options right in downtown.
Kalamazoo is a stop on Amtrak's Blue Water and Wolverine lines and is also connected via bus service to cities including Indianapolis, Chicago, Ann Arbor, and Milwaukee. Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport offers daily flights in and out of the area.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Rockford?
Main departure 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.
All train stations in Rockford:
Van Galder Bus Office
Where is the train station in Kalamazoo?
Image credit: Charles Fulton
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: 459 North Burdick Street
The Kalamazoo Transportation Center on North Burdick Street includes several modern facilities surrounding the historic 1887 Romanesque train station. The central train station's Art Deco lobby maintains rich wood furnishings and cathedral ceilings for a vintage atmosphere, while it is still an active station for Amtrak's Blue Water and Wolverine lines. Facilities include restrooms, vending machines, and a snack shop. Outside, arched covered walkways serve as boarding areas for local transit, Greyhound, FlixBus, Miller Transportation, Trailways, and Indian Trails. The transportation center is only a few blocks north of Kalamazoo's Central Business District, and a handful of restaurants and bars are within a short walk.
All train stations in Kalamazoo:
459 North Burdick Street
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