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Grand Rapids to Chicago train

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Grand Rapids - Chicago Train Schedule

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fromDKK 206.71
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Trip Summary

You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Grand Rapids and Chicago. The average train journey from Grand Rapids to Chicago takes 6 hours and 41 minutes, but some Amtrak Pere Marquette train trips are as short as 4 hours and 8 minutes.

Distance125 mi (201 km)
Fastest train4h 8m
Lowest priceDKK 199.82
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Grand Rapids to Chicago

(Based on 36 ratings and reviews)

4.7

5.0

Lynn

March 18, 2024- Visiting friends

Amtrak Pere Marquette

Pros: Ease of travel, helpfulness of staff. Cons: Rest room I in the coach car needed cleaning.

5.0

Diana

May 4, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak

Pros: It was clean and safe. Cons: the layover was long.

5.0

Tolulope

April 17, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak Pere Marquette

Pros: Comfortable and Excellent. Cons: Keep the good work going.

5.0

Payton

April 10, 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Pere Marquette

Comfortable, staff is very friendly, great way to travel. Lots of space for luggage.

5.0

Liam

March 14, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak Pere Marquette

nice and smooth trip with friendly staff

Grand Rapids to Chicago Route Map

Grand Rapids Chicago

What is the price of a train ticket from Grand Rapids to Chicago?

In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Grand Rapids to Chicago was DKK 252.33. At this price, taking the train is the cheap and easy way to go. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Chicago if you book your train tickets at least 29 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra DKK 149.87.

Average prices by travel date

DKK 517DKK 345DKK 172MarApr

For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Grand Rapids to Chicago will range from DKK 220 to DKK 455. If you're planning to travel by train to Chicago in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Grand Rapids you can find in the next 7 days is DKK 248. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.

Monthly avg. prices

DKK 517DKK 413DKK 310DKK 207DKK 103AMJJASONDJFM
Mark your calendar for May if you want to score the cheapest train tickets from Grand Rapids to Chicago. You’ll find the best deals during this time of year, when tickets cost an average of DKK 269. If you're planning a trip from Grand Rapids to Chicago during September, bear in mind that ticket prices are usually higher during this month. Expect to pay about DKK 407 for your train ticket, unless you book well in advance and find an even better deal.

Prices as travel date approaches

DKK 517DKK 413DKK 310DKK 207DKK 1033020100

If you're looking to save on your train trip from Grand Rapids to Chicago, book online with Wanderu at least 29 days in advance. That way, you’ll save DKK 149.87 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from Grand Rapids to Chicago?

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:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak28h 45mDKK 350.93
Amtrak Pere Marquette14h 9mDKK 293.46
  • 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 DKK 234.

  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Grand Rapids to Chicago. 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.

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 41 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 Friday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Friday. 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 Monday 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 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 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.

City Information

Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, MI - GRR-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Grand Rapids, MI - GRR-1

Image credit: Unsplash

Grand Rapids, MI - GRR-2

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.

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.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Grand Rapids?

Vernon J. Ehlers Station -{"city":"Grand Rapids","country":"US","postal":"49503","state":"MI","street1":"440 Century Ave SW"} - GRRAMT-0

Image credit: Russell Sekeet

Link to image attribution

Main departure 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

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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:

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

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