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Chicago, IL, USA to Grand Rapids, MI, USA from $7: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Grand Rapids, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Grand Rapids: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$7 by trainBest price
285 kmDistance
2h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Grand Rapids with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
4h  4m
Estimated price
$7-100
Recommended
route map
Distance: 285 km
Duration: 2h 58m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
4h  50m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  51m
Estimated price
$71-72
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  19m
Estimated price
$136-269
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  41m
Estimated price
$146-559
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$168-70
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Traveling From Chicago to Grand Rapids

The journey from Chicago's vibrant cityscape to Grand Rapids' charming, laid-back atmosphere offers travelers a unique blend of urban excitement and serene Midwestern charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe.

Downtown
• Bustling atmosphere with shops and restaurants.
• Home to cultural attractions like museums.
Heritage Hill
• Charming historic district with beautiful architecture.
• Ideal for leisurely walks and photography.
Eastown
• Quirky shops and vibrant local eateries.
• Popular spot for arts and live music.

Best Times To Visit Grand Rapids's Attractions

Timing your visit to Grand Rapids attractions can elevate your experience.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy art and nature without crowds.
John Ball Zoo
Mornings on weekdays offer quieter animal encounters and fewer visitors.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Late afternoons on Thursdays provide a peaceful atmosphere for art appreciation.

Grand Rapids Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Grand Rapids features a humid continental climate, bringing four distinct seasons that greatly influence your travel plans; spring and fall are generally mild and ideal for exploring, while summer offers warmth and winter brings cozy charm, though cold temperatures may require extra layers.

Dining Recommendation in Grand Rapids

Try the locally-sourced Michigan whitefish at The Chop House, where the relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients contrast sharply with Chicago's bustling dining scene; the delicate flavors and friendly service provide a refreshing take on coastal cuisine.

Chicago - Grand Rapids operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Grand Rapids, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
$7-100
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Kalamazoo Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$9-30

Bus from Kalamazoo, MI - Amtrak to Vernon J Ehlers Station - Grand Rapids

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$75-76
Website
https://www.aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$73-74
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$73-74
Website
https://iflysouthern.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Muskegon (MKG)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$77-78
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 231-739-7161
Website
http://portcitycab.com

Other from Muskegon to Grand Rapids

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$30-100

Chicago to Grand Rapids: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Grand Rapids offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Hit the road from Chicago to Grand Rapids for a scenic 177-mile drive that typically takes just under three hours. 💰 Prices for the journey can range from $30 to $50, making it an affordable and convenient way to explore the Midwest.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚂 Traveling by train from Chicago to Grand Rapids is a convenient option with a direct route available. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes, covering a distance of 173 miles. Services operate daily, offering a comfortable ride on the Amtrak Pere Marquette. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train between Chicago and Grand Rapids can range from $7 to $100, providing affordable options for different budgets. Departing from Chicago Union Station and arriving at Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station, passengers can enjoy a relaxing trip while taking in the scenic views along the way. 🌆 Whether you choose the direct train route or opt for a journey with transfers, traveling from the bustling city of Chicago to the vibrant city of Grand Rapids by train offers a pleasant experience and an efficient way to reach your destination in around 4 hours.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train journey from Chicago to Grand Rapids typically include both vending and dining options, depending on the train operator. Amtrak offers a café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals available for purchase. Be sure to check the menu ahead of time on their website, and consider bringing your own snacks for the ride.
• The seating options for this route may vary depending on the operator. Amtrak provides different classes: Standard Economy seating, which is comfortable with plenty of legroom; Business Class, which offers more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments; and First Class, which enhances the travel experience with added amenities. It's advisable to book your tickets early to secure your preferred class.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak. You can find more details, including schedules and booking information, on their website: amtrak.com Other potential services like Megabus may provide alternate transport options to consider if you're looking for flexibility. For additional travel resources, check the Grand Rapids transit site for local bus schedules.
🛫 Flying from Chicago Midway Airport to Grand Rapids Airport is a convenient and quick option for travelers looking to reach their destination efficiently. The direct flight offered by Southwest Airlines takes only 50 minutes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a hassle-free trip.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Grand Rapids Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Chicago to Grand Rapids, the journey can be completed in approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes with transfers along the way. 🛣️ Route options include one with a total travel time of 4 hours and 5 minutes involving a transfer in Kalamazoo, or another with a longer journey of 17 hours and 55 minutes with a transfer in Detroit. 🚂 For a scenic alternative, a train option is available, taking approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes from Chicago Union Station to Grand Rapids Station on the Pere Marquette line operated by Amtrak.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Vernon J Ehlers Station - Grand Rapids
Useful tips for bus travellers
• To make your transfer smoother, plan your bus trip from Chicago to Kalamazoo using Greyhound (greyhound.com) and book tickets in advance, ensuring you arrive with ample time to switch to the Indian Trails service for the final leg to Grand Rapids.
• Once you arrive at Kalamazoo, check the Indian Trails departure schedule (indiantrails.com) for your transfer to Grand Rapids and keep an eye on any announcements at the station for any changes or delays in service.
• Upon arriving at Vern Ehlers Station in Grand Rapids, familiarize yourself with the station layout by reviewing their map online to find key facilities such as restrooms, ticket counters, and local transportation options like taxis or rideshares for further travel.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Grand Rapids.

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The distance between Chicago and Grand Rapids is approximately 126 miles. If you prefer train travel, it typically takes around 4 hours and 4 minutes to reach Grand Rapids from Chicago. Alternatively, taking a flight from Chicago O'Hare to Grand Rapids followed by a bus ride on line 5 can take around 4 hours and 31 minutes. Driving by car is the fastest option, with an average travel time of about 2 hours and 58 minutes. However, if you prefer taking a bus, it usually takes around 5 hours and 20 minutes to reach Grand Rapids from Chicago.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Grand Rapids is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $7 to $100. Taking the train will take approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes. However, if time is a factor, driving is the quickest option, taking around 2 hours and 58 minutes. Although it may be slightly more expensive, driving allows for more flexibility and the ability to make stops along the way.
The prices for train tickets between Chicago and Grand Rapids vary, ranging from $7 to $100. The exact price will depend on factors such as the date of travel, the class of ticket, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with the specific train service provider for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Chicago to Grand Rapids without using public transportation, the best option would be to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 177 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of driving from Chicago to Grand Rapids can vary between $30 to $50, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll road fees.
If you want to travel from Chicago to Grand Rapids without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes and ticket prices range from $7 to $100 depending on the service. This is a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Grand Rapids by train. The Amtrak train departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives at Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station, with a journey time of approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities. Instead, you would need to take a bus from Chicago to Kalamazoo, and then transfer to another bus to reach Grand Rapids, with a total travel time of around 5 hours and 20 minutes.
The flight from Chicago to Grand Rapids typically takes 55 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. However, on average, you can expect to pay around $150 to $250 for a round-trip ticket. It is always recommended to book your flight in advance and compare prices from different airlines to get the best deal.
There are numerous accommodation options available in Grand Rapids. With over 134 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of options to fit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $50, making it accessible for travelers with different budgets. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices to consider when planning your stay in Grand Rapids.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Grand Rapids