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Madison, WI, USA to Grand Rapids, MI, USA from $29: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Madison 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.

$29 - Bus, TrainBest price
523 kmDistance
5h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madison 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
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  4m
Estimated price
$31-139
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  8m
Estimated price
$29-228
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 523 km
Duration: 5h 26m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway operated by Indian Trails
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
9h  59m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  14m
Estimated price
$34-146
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  26m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$292-311
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  29m
Estimated price
$306-310
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
8h  32m
Estimated price
$312-313
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Madison to Grand Rapids

Your journey from Madison to Grand Rapids offers a fascinating shift from Wisconsin’s vibrant city life, filled with eclectic events and festivals, to Grand Rapids’ thriving craft beer scene and rich art culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown
• Home to lively bars and restaurants.
• Hosts annual events and festivals.
Heritage Hill
• Known for stunning historic homes.
• Offers charming tree-lined streets.
West Michigan
• Boasts a vibrant arts community.
• Features cozy coffee shops and boutiques.

Best Times To Visit Grand Rapids's Attractions

Maximize your Grand Rapids experience by timing your visits strategically.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and peaceful strolls.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Afternoons on weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere for exploring exhibits.
John Ball Zoo
Early mornings on weekends provide a serene environment and active animals.

Grand Rapids Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Grand Rapids experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making it crucial to plan your visit according to the weather. Spring and fall are particularly delightful times to explore, as mild temperatures enhance the enjoyment of outdoor attractions and events.

Dining Recommendation

In Grand Rapids, don’t miss the opportunity to savor a handcrafted Michigan cherry BBQ pork dish at The Smokehouse, a local favorite that showcases the region's fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This contrast to Madison’s farm-to-table scene adds a smoky twist and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Madison - Grand Rapids operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Kalamazoo Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Milwaukee Intermodal

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
http://www.badgerbus.badgerbus.com/tickets

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Milwaukee Intermodal

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

Average Duration
3h 36m
Estimated price
$3140-317

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

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$318-319

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$1390-319
Website
aa.com

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

Average Duration
4h 33m
Estimated price
$3140-850
Website
delta.com

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

Average Duration
3h 47m
Estimated price
$315-1391
Train
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
$1394-1395

Train from Milwaukee to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$297-13945

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

Traveling between Madison 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Madison to Grand Rapids spanning a drive of 325 miles.🌳 Discover the beauty of the Midwest as you traverse through scenic landscapes and charming towns on your journey. 💰 Prices for the road trip from Madison to Grand Rapids by car range from $55 to $85, offering flexibility to suit various budgets. 🛣️ Plan your route carefully and enjoy the cost-effective adventure from Wisconsin to Michigan. 🕒 Set aside approximately 5 hours and 26 minutes for the drive from Madison to Grand Rapids, allowing for leisurely stops and sightseeing along the way. 🏞️ Experience the joy of the open road as you make lasting memories on this exciting Midwest excursion.
Average price
$55 - $85
🛫 Flying from Madison to Grand Rapids usually involves a one-stopover flight with major airlines like American, United, or Delta. The quickest route takes about 3 hours and 1 minute. ✈️ Although there are no direct flights from Madison to Grand Rapids, the total travel time by plane is approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes. Prices for flights between these cities typically range from $306 to $396.
Departure Point
Madison Airport
Arrival Point
Grand Rapids Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 1m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Since there are no direct flights from Madison to Grand Rapids, consider booking a flight with a short layover to minimize your overall travel time; most flights will connect through Chicago O'Hare (ORD) or Detroit Metro (DTW).
• Upon arriving at Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, be prepared to navigate a smaller airport with efficient signs; if you have checked baggage, head to the baggage claim area promptly as it’s a straight shot from the terminal.
• The taxi fare from Gerald R. Ford International Airport to downtown Grand Rapids is approximately $30-$40, so consider using rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft for potentially lower rates or more convenient service.
🚌 Starting from Madison station, travelers on the bus to Grand Rapids will embark on an approximately 10-hour journey with transfers along the way. The route includes stops at Chicago Bus Station and Kalamazoo - Amtrak.
Departure Point
Madison station
Arrival Point
Vernon J Ehlers Station - Grand Rapids

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Madison and Grand Rapids is approximately 190 miles. By car, it takes around 5 hours and 26 minutes to travel from Grand Rapids to Madison. If one prefers to take a bus, the travel time is approximately 10 hours and 28 minutes. For a faster option, flying from Madison to Grand Rapids takes around 6 hours and 13 minutes. It is also possible to take a combination of bus and train via Milwaukee, which takes approximately 8 hours and 53 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Madison to Grand Rapids is by taking a bus and train combination. This option typically costs between $30 and $140 and takes approximately 9 hours and 4 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking around 5 hours and 26 minutes. The cost for driving is estimated to be between $55 and $85.
To get from Madison to Grand Rapids without using public transportation, you can drive yourself. The driving distance is approximately 325 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 26 minutes to reach your destination by car. The cost of driving from Madison to Grand Rapids can range from $55 to $85, depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees.
To travel from Madison to Grand Rapids without a car, you can take a bus and then a train via Milwaukee. This option takes approximately 8 hours and 53 minutes and costs between $18 and $210. Another option is to take a plane, which takes about 6 hours and 13 minutes. However, if you prefer a more scenic route, you can also take a bus, which takes around 10 hours and 28 minutes.
There is no direct bus link between Madison and Grand Rapids. However, there are alternative routes available. One option is to take a bus from Madison to Chicago, then transfer to another bus that goes to Kalamazoo, and finally take a train from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 10 hours and 28 minutes. The buses and train services are operated by Amtrak.
The flight duration between Madison and Grand Rapids typically takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes with one stopover. It is important to note that there are no direct flights available for this route. The prices for flights between the two cities can range from $306 to $396, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
In Grand Rapids there are a variety of hotels available for accommodations. With over 134 options to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in the area start at $50 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or more budget-friendly options, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay near Grand Rapids.

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