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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Grand Rapids to Blacksburg. Traveling by train from Grand Rapids to Blacksburg usually takes 41 hours and 10 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 484 mi (778 km) |
| Fastest train | 41h 10m |
| Lowest price | $346.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Grand Rapids to Blacksburg?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Grand Rapids to Blacksburg. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 1d 17h 10m | $346.00 |
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 1 Amtrak trains from Grand Rapids to Blacksburg every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $346.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Grand Rapids and Blacksburg is approximately 484 miles, or 778 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 41 hours and 10 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 from Grand Rapids to Blacksburg are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Grand Rapids at 6:00am and arrives in Blacksburg around 41 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Blacksburg to Grand Rapids.
City Information
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.
Blacksburg
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Blacksburg is a town dominated by Virginia Tech, but even if you're not a student, you'll find plenty of exciting attractions to explore! Sports fans will be pleasantly surprised when they step into Lane Stadium, where you can watch games while witnessing quirky traditions such as the "Hokie Walk." For travelers who wish to explore the cultural and historical aspects of the city, check out the Historic Smithfield Plantation, built in the early 1770s. The building features unique architecture and a complex history, which will certainly reel you in. Finally, to enjoy some top-tier entertainment, head to the Lyric Theatre, a historical theatre nearly 100 years old.
Foodies will rejoice to hear that Blacksburg also has a great variety of dishes to offer to its visitors. The renowned Zeppoli's Italian Restaurant has long been a local favorite, and its authentic Italian plates are bound to please. For a more upscale experience, check out 622 North, housed in a lavish Victorian building.
Amtrak's Thruway bus service connects Blacksburg to the nationwide rail network, but it is also easy to reach Blacksburg via OurBus. The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport serves the city, but the nearest international airports are all the way in Washington, D.C., and Charlotte.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Grand Rapids?
Image credit: Russell Sekeet
Link to image attributionMain 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 Blacksburg?
Main arrival station: Virginia Tech Squires Student Ctr
Amtrak Thruway buses and local transit buses stop at 291 Alumni Mall in front of the Virginia Tech Squires Student Center. This is near the eastern edge of the Virginia Tech campus and just a short walk from downtown Blacksburg. This curbside bus stop does not have a separate building for travelers, but the student center has restrooms, food options, and seating inside. Although there are a few parking lots on the Virginia Tech campus, most are restricted for use by the university community. There is paid parking available in the North End Center Garage.
All train stations in Blacksburg:
Virginia Tech Squires Student Ctr
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