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There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Grand Rapids to Chicago. Traveling by train from Grand Rapids to Chicago usually takes 6 hours and 21 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Pere Marquette train can make the trip in 4 hours and 8 minutes.
| Distance | 125 mi (201 km) |
| Fastest train | 4h 8m |
| Lowest price | $35.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Average score for trains from Grand Rapids to Chicago
(Based on 33 ratings and reviews)
5.0
Pros: Comfortable and Excellent. Cons: Keep the good work going.
5.0
Comfortable, staff is very friendly, great way to travel. Lots of space for luggage.
5.0
Pros: Ease and efficiency of booking online Convenient way to travel to Chicago. Cons: Arm rests between seats Foot rests.
4.0
Pros: It was fast and on time. Cons: No wifi.
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Grand Rapids to Chicago was $67.41. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 1 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $2.27 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
The cost of a one-way train trip from Grand Rapids to Chicago is expected to stay pretty stable over the next four weeks. No matter which day you travel, you can expect to pay about $71 for your ticket.
By booking your train trip from Grand Rapids to Chicago on Wanderu at least 1 days ahead of time, you can save about $2.27 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
2 train services operate from Grand Rapids to Chicago. 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 | 7h 28m | $77.44 |
| Amtrak Pere Marquette | 1 | 4h 9m | $58.23 |
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 Grand Rapids to Chicago every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $38.
Named after a famous French explorer, the Amtrak Pere Marquette is a train route from Grand Rapids to Chicago. The Pere Marquette travels from Grand Rapids to Chicago in about 4 hours and 9 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 Chicago.
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
The distance between Grand Rapids and Chicago is approximately 125 miles, or 201 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 21 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 8 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.
Trains departing from Grand Rapids to Chicago tend to have the most passengers on Monday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Monday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Friday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Grand Rapids at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 5:00pm. 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 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Grand Rapids to Chicago. 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 Chicago to 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.
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.
Image credit: Russell Sekeet
Link to image attributionVernon 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.
Vernon J. Ehlers Station
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
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.
Union Station
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