Grand Rapids, MI, USA to East Lansing, MI, USA from $7: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$7 by busBest price

110 kmDistance

1h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Grand Rapids to East Lansing 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.

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Traveling From Grand Rapids to East Lansing

The journey from Grand Rapids to East Lansing takes you from a vibrant city known for its craft breweries and art scene to a college town brimming with youthful energy and an impressive array of cultural and educational attractions.

Best Neighbourhoods in East Lansing

East Lansing features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown East Lansing

• Bustling with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

• Frequent events create a lively atmosphere.

Brody Neighborhood

• Home to Michigan State University students.

• Offers green spaces and recreational facilities.

Harrison Meadows

• Quiet residential area with a friendly vibe.

• Close proximity to parks and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit East Lansing's Attractions

Timing your visit to East Lansing's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Michigan State University Campus

Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

Abrams Planetarium

Weekdays are ideal; weekends can attract larger crowds.

The Wharton Center

Catch a show mid-week for a more relaxed and intimate experience.

East Lansing Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

East Lansing experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters, making it a destination for seasonal changes. Late spring and early fall offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while winter can affect travel plans due to snow and colder temperatures.

Dining Recommendation

In East Lansing, try the locally beloved dish of Greek-style lamb gyro at The Parts Pantry, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors come together in a unique way compared to the craft beer and farm-to-table focus of Grand Rapids. The vibrant atmosphere and community vibe here provide an enjoyable dining experience that showcases the city's diverse culinary landscape.

Grand Rapids - East Lansing operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-292-3831

Website

https://www.indiantrails.com/

Bus from Grand Rapids, MI to East Lansing, MI

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$7-40

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

Traveling between Grand Rapids and East Lansing 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Grand Rapids to East Lansing, covering a distance of 68 miles in just over an hour. Enjoy the picturesque views along the way as you cruise through Michigan's charming towns. 💵 Explore budget-friendly options with car travel costs ranging from $12 to $18 for the Grand Rapids to East Lansing route. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your travel budget and possibly discover some hidden gems along the route.

Average price

$12 - $18

🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Grand Rapids to East Lansing covering a distance of 73.0 miles in just 1 hour and 15 mins. 🚌 Begin your trip by hopping on a bus towards Detroit, which will take approximately 1 hour and 5 mins. Travel through cities like Chicago, Kalamazoo, Flint, and St. Ignace before arriving at Lansing.

🚍 The journey from Grand Rapids to East Lansing by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Services depart twice daily and operate every day. 🚌 The route covers a distance of 72.9 miles, with the bus traveling through Lansing and Flint before reaching East Lansing. The bus is operated by Indian Trails. 🎫 Prices for the bus ticket between East Lansing and Grand Rapids range from $7 to $40.indiantrails.com/.

Departure Point

Grand Rapids, MI station

Arrival Point

East Lansing, MI station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Arrive at the Grand Rapids station early to familiarize yourself with the bus schedule and terminal layout, as Indian Trails operates on a strict timetable and has only two departures daily—be at the Greyhound Terminal with ample time to check your tickets and locate your bus.

• Onboard, take advantage of the Wi-Fi service and charging ports available on the Indian Trails buses, allowing you to stay connected for the approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes journey—just remember to download any essential content ahead of time in case of a weak signal.

• Once you arrive at the East Lansing station, head straight to the MSU Student Center or the nearby shops on Grand River Avenue for delicious dining options—both are within walking distance and offer a variety of local cuisines; don't miss checking out local favorites like Crunchy's or the MSU Dairy Store for unique snacks.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Grand Rapids to East Lansing.

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The cheapest way to get from Grand Rapids to East Lansing is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate this route, with ticket prices ranging from $7 to $40. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Taking the bus not only provides a cost-effective option but also allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenic views during your trip.

The fastest way to travel from Grand Rapids to East Lansing is by driving. The journey usually takes around 1 hour and 12 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The approximate cost for this trip is between $12 and $18, taking into account the fuel expenses. Make sure to check for any construction or road closures before you depart for a smooth and efficient journey.

The distance between Grand Rapids and East Lansing is approximately 62 miles. This is the direct distance between the two cities. However, the road distance is slightly longer, around 68.3 miles, as it takes into account the actual route you would have to take by car or bus. It usually takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive between the two cities, depending on traffic conditions.

The most convenient way to travel from Grand Rapids to East Lansing without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus options available, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $7 to $40, depending on the specific bus company and the time of travel. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

The bus journey from Grand Rapids to East Lansing takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including any transfers that may be required. Buses depart twice daily, providing travelers with flexibility in choosing their preferred departure time. It's important to note that the duration may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors, so it is advisable to check the schedule and plan accordingly.

There are numerous hotels available near East Lansing. With over 60 options to choose from, you can find accommodation suitable for any budget or preference. Prices for hotels in East Lansing start at $56 per night, making it easy to find affordable options. Whether you prefer luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay near East Lansing.

Yes, you can drive from Grand Rapids to East Lansing. The driving distance is approximately 68 miles and it takes around 1 hour and 12 minutes to reach your destination. You can take multiple highways such as I-96 E and I-69 N to make your journey more efficient. Please note that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Yes, there is a direct bus between Grand Rapids and East Lansing. The bus service operates twice daily, every day. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

You can catch the bus from Grand Rapids at the Grand Rapids Station. The bus services are operated by Indian Trails. Simply head to the station at the designated departure time for your convenience.

The bus from Grand Rapids to East Lansing arrives at the East Lansing station. This is the final destination of the bus journey. The East Lansing station is a convenient location in the city where passengers can easily access local transportation or continue their journey on foot. It is recommended to check the exact location and any specific instructions or guidelines provided by the bus operator.

The cost of a bus ticket from Grand Rapids to East Lansing can range from $7 to $40, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. Prices may also vary based on the time of day and the day of the week. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.

Driving from Grand Rapids to East Lansing is a cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $12 to $18 depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and current gas prices. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the round trip journey, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way. Remember to factor in any additional expenses such as tolls or parking fees during your trip.