Most Michiganders have taken at least one road trip to the beautiful city of Chicago. While there’s nothing quite as classically adventurous as driving from the Mitten State to the Windy City, there is an alternative way to make the journey. If you’re seeking an exciting ride through some of our state’s loveliest areas, hop aboard the Pere Marquette train. Sit back, relax, and watch the sights of our beloved Michigan go by — without the responsibility of driving.
The current route of the Pere Marquette was established in 1984, when the railway on which it runs was purchased by Amtrak. Today, the train operates between Grand Rapids, Michigan and Chicago, Illinois, with several stops in between.
But the history of the Pere Marquette stretches back into the early 1900s, when the train ran between Detroit and Grand Rapids six times each day as part of the now-defunct Pere Marquette Railway. In 1947, the railway was purchased by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, which extended the track to include service to Chicago.
Modern-day passengers will board the fully updated train in Grand Rapids, where they can even elect to lounge in "sightseeing" seats that face the window. On the route to Chicago, the Pere Marquette stops in the charming Michigan cities of Holland, Bangor, and St. Joseph/Benton Harbor. The train can be boarded or left at any of these locations, and covers 176 miles in total.
A stop in Holland will reveal one of the state’s most quaint and friendly small towns. Check out Windmill Island or Veldheer Tulip Farm to explore the city’s Dutch heritage, or make the short trip to Holland State Park for a relaxing day on Lake Michigan before continuing your railroad journey.
In Bangor, learn about the town’s economic history, which has spanned everything from blueberry growing to toy train production. Visit the refurbished historic train depot to experience
what train travel was like in its early days.
St. Joseph is another fascinating stop along the Pere Marquette, with yet another stunning beachfront view of Lake Michigan. Along with the adjoining town of Benton Harbor, "St. Joe" boasts a charming downtown and offers visitors access to hiking and natural exploration.
But if stopping along the route isn’t quite your style, don’t worry: there are plenty of wonderful sights to see during a ride on the Pere Marquette. The route follows the coast of Lake Michigan and passes through the heart of several Michigan cities before entering equally scenic territory in northern Indiana and, ultimately, Illinois.
Whether you’re admiring the Grand River in Grand Rapids, watching rows of dune grass fly by outside the train car window, or simply daydreaming about your upcoming adventure in the Windy City of Chicago, you’ll never forget your ride on this one-of-a-kind Michigan route.
For more information about prices and schedules for the Pere Marquette, click here. Have you taken a ride along this amazing route? We’d love to hear about your favorite views and stops!
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