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Milwaukee, WI, USA to Grand Rapids, MI, USA from $111: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Milwaukee 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.

$111 by trainBest price
183 kmDistance
5h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Milwaukee 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
6h  33m
Estimated price
$11-174
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
6h  33m
Estimated price
$111-112
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 183 km
Duration: 5h 45m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
7h  50m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
FlixBus, Amtrak
Bus
Train
Average Duration
7h  8m
Estimated price
$17-145
Company
Wisconsin Coach Lines, United Airlines
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$93-259
Company
Various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
8h  1m
Estimated price
$102-142
Company
Amtrak, Various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  9m
Estimated price
$160-110
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Milwaukee to Grand Rapids

A journey from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids takes you from the vibrant lakefront city known for its breweries and art scene to a charming hub of craft beer and outdoor adventures, each offering distinct cultural and recreational experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Eastown
• Eclectic boutiques and cafes abound.
• Vibrant nightlife scene attracts younger crowds.
Heritage Hill
• Historic architecture showcases rich local history.
• Tree-lined streets perfect for leisurely strolls.
Downtown Grand Rapids
• Home to numerous arts and cultural venues.
• Variety of dining options from casual to upscale.

Best Times To Visit Grand Rapids's Attractions

Plan your visits to Grand Rapids's attractions for the best experience.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Visit early morning on weekdays to enjoy peace and avoid crowds.
John Ball Zoo
Midweek visits in spring or fall provide a quieter experience.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Late afternoons on Thursdays allow for fewer visitors and special events.

Grand Rapids Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Grand Rapids experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, offering warm summers and cold winters; the best times to visit are spring and fall for pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Weather can greatly influence your travel experience, as snow in winter provides opportunities for winter sports, while mild temperatures in warmer months are ideal for outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Grand Rapids

When in Grand Rapids, try the Smoked Brisket Sandwich at Oh My Burger, which features locally sourced ingredients and a smoky flavor profile that sets it apart from Milwaukee’s renowned cheese curds and beer culture. The laid-back, vibrant atmosphere of this eatery, combined with the innovative menu, offers a refreshing contrast to Milwaukee’s more traditional dining scene.

Milwaukee - Grand Rapids operators

Explore transport companies operating between Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee to Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station

Average Duration
6h 33m
Estimated price
$111-112

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

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
$110-174
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$111-171

Bus from Milwaukee Bus Station to Vernon J Ehlers Station - Grand Rapids

Average Duration
7h 50m
Estimated price
$17-145
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Milwaukee Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$111-174

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Kalamazoo Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$175-176

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

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

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Grand Rapids

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$115-160
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Grand Rapids

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$116-160
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Grand Rapids

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$110-117
Ferry
Contact phone
(800) 841-4243
Website
ssbadger.com

Ferry from Manitowoc to Ludington

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$1450-17470

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

Traveling between Milwaukee 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.

🚆 Traveling from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids by train is a scenic journey with a total duration of approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes. Although there is no direct train, passengers will transfer at Chicago Union Station before reaching Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station. 🚆 The train services on this route are operated by Amtrak, offering a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation between the two cities. The prices for the train tickets between Milwaukee and Grand Rapids can vary from $11 to $174, providing options for different budgets. 🚆 The route covers a distance of 262 miles and involves a single transfer at Chicago Union Station. With the first leg on the Train Hiawatha Service departing from Milwaukee Intermodal Station to Chicago Union Station, followed by the Train Pere Marquette to Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station, travelers can enjoy a pleasant and efficient rail journey through the Midwest.
Departure Point
Milwaukee station
Arrival Point
Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station
🛫 Flying from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids is a convenient and quick way to travel with a direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport taking only 57 minutes.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Grand Rapids Airport
🚌 The trip from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids by bus is not direct and includes transfers. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes. 🌆 The route covers a distance of 289 miles with 2 transfers along the way. The first step involves a bus towards Chicago, with a duration of about 1 hour and 45 minutes. 🚦 The second step consists of a bus towards Detroit, lasting around 2 hours and 50 minutes. The final leg is a bus from Chicago to Grand Rapids, taking about 1 hour.
Departure Point
Milwaukee Bus Station
Arrival Point
Vernon J Ehlers Station - Grand Rapids

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids is by taking a combination of bus and train. There are several bus companies that offer affordable fares, such as Greyhound or Megabus. The bus journey takes approximately 3-4 hours. Once you reach a connecting city, you can catch a train to Grand Rapids, which typically takes around 3-4 hours as well. It is important to check the schedules and prices in advance to ensure a smooth and cost-effective journey.
The fastest way to travel from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids is by taking a combination of bus and fly. This option typically takes around 5 hours and 35 minutes. The cost of this journey can range from $90 to $260 depending on various factors such as the time of booking and availability. It is recommended to check for the most up-to-date schedules and prices before making any travel arrangements.
It is approximately 114 miles from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids. The driving distance between the two cities is around 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. If you prefer public transportation, there are also bus and train options available, which take around 4-5 hours.
The best way to travel from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids without a car is by taking a train. Amtrak operates a direct train route between the two cities, which takes approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes. The cost of the train ticket can range from $10 to $180, depending on factors such as availability and booking time. This option provides a convenient and comfortable mode of transportation for those who prefer not to drive.
To get from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids the cheapest way is by taking a bus and train combination. This option typically costs between $16 and $150 and takes approximately 6 hours and 54 minutes. By choosing this mode of transportation, you can save money while enjoying a comfortable journey to your destination.
There are plenty of options for accommodation in Grand Rapids. Some popular hotels include the Amway Grand Plaza, JW Marriott Grand Rapids, and CityFlatsHotel. Prices for hotels in the area start at around $50 per night for budget options and can go up to $200+ for more upscale establishments. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Milwaukee and Grand Rapids. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers. The journey usually includes departing from Milwaukee transferring in Chicago, IL, and then continuing on to Kalamazoo before reaching Grand Rapids. The total travel time for this route is approximately 8 hours and 8 minutes, including the transfers.
To catch the bus from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids you will need to go to the Milwaukee station. This is where the bus services, operated by Megabus, depart from. Ensure to arrive at the station ahead of time to avoid missing your bus. The station is conveniently located and easily accessible for travelers.
The Milwaukee to Grand Rapids bus operated by Amtrak arrives at the Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station. This station is located at 440 Century Ave SW, Grand Rapids. It is conveniently located near downtown Grand Rapids and offers easy access to various attractions in the city. Passengers can disembark here and continue their journey to their desired destination in Grand Rapids.
United Airlines and American Airlines offer flights from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Grand Rapids Airport. The average flight duration is around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is recommended to check the airlines' websites or third-party flight search engines to compare prices and schedules for this route.
The fastest way to travel from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids is by taking a flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Grand Rapids Airport. The direct flight takes approximately 55 minutes. United Airlines and American Airlines are the airlines that offer flights for this route.
The flight from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids typically takes around 55 minutes. The quickest and most convenient option is to take a direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Grand Rapids Airport. However, please keep in mind that this is the estimated flight time and could vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date flight schedules.
Trains from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids arrive at the Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station. This station is located in downtown Grand Rapids and provides convenient access to the city's attractions and amenities. It is the main train station in Grand Rapids and offers a comfortable and convenient arrival point for passengers traveling from Milwaukee. The station is well-maintained and equipped with amenities such as waiting areas, ticketing services, and restrooms to ensure a pleasant travel experience.
No, there is no direct train between Milwaukee and Grand Rapids. However, there are train services available that require a transfer at Chicago Union Station. The journey from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids, including the transfer, takes approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes. It is recommended to check the train schedules and plan accordingly for the transfer.
To catch the train from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids you need to go to the Milwaukee station. The train services are operated by Amtrak, and they depart from this station. It is important to check the train schedules and plan your trip in advance to ensure a smooth journey from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids.
The cost of a train ticket from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids can vary depending on various factors such as the class of service, time of booking, and availability. On average, train tickets for this route range from $11 to $174. It is recommended to book your train ticket in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from Milwaukee

Trips to Grand Rapids