Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI train with Amtrak

Fri 18 Sept
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Amtrak
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Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£47

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£52

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

4 h 4 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

5 h 25 m

Trains on 18 Sept

2

Distance

204 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI will cost around £52 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £47.

Fast trains

On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI, including 1 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 204 km distance in an average of 5 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 4 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak370
    18:304h04
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    23:34Grand Rapids Station, Grand Rapids, MI
    £471One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak350 · 8650
    6:456h45
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    14:30Grand Rapids Station, Grand Rapids, MI
    £571One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £30 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 4m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £30, while a flight costs an average of £164.

Distance: 204 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight
Driving

£40

Average Price

£30

Average Price

Cheapest

£164

Average Price

£38

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 31m

Average total duration

4h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 8m

Average total duration

3h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 4m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

2h 37m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.6 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI is a coach with an average price of £30.

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI:

A coach is £9 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI costing on average £40.

A coach is £134 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI costing on average £164.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 4m.

Other travel options to Grand Rapids, MI take longer:

Coach takes on average 3h 38m.

Train takes on average 4h 1m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Grand Rapids, MI including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around £40 compared to roughly £38 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-1.87. The journey takes 4h 1m versus 2h 37m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak37018:30 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h04
23:34 Grand Rapids Station, Grand Rapids, MI0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
17 Sept
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 18:30. The fastest train covers the 204 km distance in 4h 4m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £19
Distance
204 km
Average train duration
4h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
£24
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
4h 4m
First train
6:00
Last train
18:30
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
28 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £19

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Grand Rapids, MI from £19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
4h 4m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£24
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Grand Rapids, MI from £19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
4h 4m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£24
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

What's included in each class

Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.

Bedroom
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Business Class Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
  • WC
Business Travel Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Coach Lower Level Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Coach Reserved Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Coach Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
Coach Unreserved Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Family Bedroom
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Superliner Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Viewliner Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access

Complete guide to Grand Rapids, MI

Things to do in Grand Rapids, MI

Discover the best of Grand Rapids, MI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Grand Rapids, MI trip today.

  • Recommended

Grand Rapids Art Museum

Urban art museum with American and European works, design, and rotating exhibitions in a modern building downtown.

  • Recommended

Grand Rapids Public Museum

Hands-on history and science museum with regional exhibits, a planetarium and the attached Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.

  • Recommended

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Presidential museum covering Gerald Ford’s life, presidency and public service through archives, exhibitions and memorabilia.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a US city: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transport is limited, and attractions are generally reasonable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
$20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-5 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or about $1 per drink in cafés if table service is provided.

FAQs: Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Grand Rapids, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £40.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI covers a distance of 204 km and takes approximately 4h 4m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI is 204 km.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI leaves at 6:00.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI departs at 18:30.
Trains from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago, IL and Grand Rapids, MI. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Grand Rapids, MI is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, and it arrives at Grand Rapids Station, Grand Rapids, MI.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI is by coach, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI offers a blend of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the bustling cityscape of Chicago, the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, and the lush greenery and farmland of the Michigan countryside, providing a varied and pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI is not feasible as the journey duration is 4h 4m. However, there are 2 trips per day for trains.
To fully experience the attractions and culture of Grand Rapids, MI, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This allows time to visit key sites such as the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and the local breweries that the city is renowned for.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Chicago, IL and Grand Rapids, MI

Most Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI trains use the Union Station to Grand Rapids Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Grand Rapids, MI train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Grand Rapids

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Grand Rapids, MI leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI leave from Union Station. The station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre

Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus28, 151 · 7m · £3 · every ~13 min

Union Station train station facilities and services

Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Grand Rapids, MI Chicago, IL to Grand Rapids, MI train

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