4 Michigan Amtrak Adventures on the Pere Marquette Line

The Pere Marquette Amtrak route runs 176 miles between Chicago and Grand Rapids, but the real charm lies in the Michigan towns along the way.

The full-day route scoops around Lake Michigan from Illinois through Indiana, and then heads northeast through these Michigan towns:

• St. Joseph/Benton Harbor
• Bangor
• Holland
• Grand Rapids

If you stop in one of these Michigan destinations, you can pick up the train in the evening for a ride back to Chicago. Plus, you have the option to make a long weekend of it and hopscotch through the towns on this daily route.

We start our virtual vacation at the first Michigan stop in St. Joseph, just a five-minute walk from one of Michigan’s best beaches.

St. Joseph-Benton Harbor

The Amtrak St. Joseph (SJM) train station is located at 410 1/2 Vine Street.

The first stop from Chicago is in the heart of St. Joseph. The city of fewer than 8,000 residents swells in the summer, thanks to the beautiful beaches of Silver Beach County Park.

On the short walk to the shoreline, you’ll be able to take a ride on the Silver Beach Carousel. The intricate merry-go-round dates back to the 1890s. The amusement park that once stood here is now cherished in mementos and a diorama.

Stop by the Brass Ring Gift Shop for tokens to take a ride through history.

Traveling with kids? Don’t miss the Curious Kids Museum & Discovery Zone next door. The museum focuses on kids of all ages, while the Discovery Zone is for those up to 10 years old. Reserve online in the summer or on holidays.

Once you’re at the beach, head to the northwest corner where the St. Joseph River and Lake Michigan meet. Look for the And You, Seas sculpture by Richard Hunt to know you’re in the right place.

Walk the breakwater about 2,000 feet to get sweeping water views of the South Pier lighthouse across the river. Those who want to get on the water can book through Third Coast Paddling, located right inside the park.

Heading away from the water, you’ll find yourself in the heart of this charming downtown. Hungry? Choose the rooftop at RyeBelles for a sophisticated dinner where every seat comes with a view.

If sampling wine sounds like a great way to pass the day, the White Pine Winery’s tasting room gives you a sample of Michigan’s finest vines.

Those who want something more casual and a chance to stretch their legs should head east down Broad Street. Stop in at the free Box Factory for the Arts, a laid-back creative space in a converted warehouse.

Then, wrap up with a riverside view from Clementines Too, serving Midwest comfort food at its finest.

Benton Harbor is across the water, but it will be a 2-mile walk to Tiscornia Park. Walk the breakwater to the lighthouse, or grab a spot on the bench to enjoy the view.

One of the most unique things to do in the St. Joseph-Benton Harbor area is sailing the Tall Ship MJ. Choose from traditional day sails or themed adventures like the Kid’s Neverland Sail or a sunset sail.

Bangor

The Amtrak Bangor (BAM) train station is located at 541 Railroad Street.

Nicknamed Rail City USA, Bangor is more of a sleepy town these days. Wander the traditional downtown area any time of year. If you want a photo with the Rail City USA caboose, it’s just a six-minute walk from the train station.

Bangor is also known as the Gateway to the Lake, with many people stopping by for supplies before heading to the lake.

Fall is when this city springs to life.

Plan a trip during mid-October to enjoy the Bangor Apple Festival. It’s the kind of small-town festival where you can catch a parade, eat way too many apple desserts, browse handmade crafts, and test your cornhole skills.

And, if you have a little more time, head just outside of town to Big Sky Farm. The 15-acre corn maze, pumpkin patch, and weekend Fall Fest events are worth the mile or so walk to the center of action.

If you have a car or can catch a ride, head 2 miles east of downtown for Frida’s Cantina. Authentic Mexican dishes fill the menu of this colorful eatery. Plus, live music and trivia make for a fun night out on the town.

Holland

The Amtrak Holland (HOM) train station is located at 171 Lincoln Avenue.

Our next stop on the Pere Marquette Amtrak virtual vacation is Holland, Michigan. The tulip is to Holland what the apple is to Bangor. Dutch immigrants brought their culture to this region, and it’s still thick in the air and its architecture to this day.

The train stops right by the banks of the Macatawa River, which turns into Mackatawa Lake and then Lake Michigan. The best time to visit is in early May when Tulip Time takes over the town. More than 5 million tulips are on display.

About a half mile from the train depot is Windmill Island Gardens, one of the must-see spots in this version of Holland. Art, nature, and a 250-year-old Dutch windmill make this a place that feels surreal.

Riverview Park is less than a 10-minute walk from the train station. This park is also known as the Window on the Waterfront. There’s a walking trail, a playground for the kids, and an outdoor ice skating rink in the winter.

Downtown Holland is one of those places you can just wander around for hours. The charm and energy fill more than 100 shops and restaurants. Look for live music and public events to take over the streets, too.

The Holland Museum is just on the outskirts of downtown next to Centennial Park. Explore the historic exhibits and artwork dating back to the 1600s. Check the schedule for guided tours.

It’s worth walking a bit more to Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant right by Kollen Park. Eat or drink at the bar, indoor dining room, or the covered outdoor patio with water views.

The menu ranges from street corn to seafood chowder to barbecue brisket, with heaping portions of steaks, sides, and pizzas to round it out. 

New Holland Brewpub offers a hand-selected list of beers seasonally and year-round. Sit outside or enjoy the indoor atmosphere while scanning the elaborate list of drink options. Look for the pizza of the month; it’s usually the go-to dish.

Grab a cab or a rideshare to take the short 3-mile ride to Nelis’ Dutch Village. If Holland had a theme park, this would be it. Enjoy live demonstrations, rides, and self-guided exhibits.

Try a meal filled with Dutch specialties at the Hungry Dutchman Cafe or grab some chocolates and ice cream along the way. If you can’t make it to the village, shop the Nelis’ Dutch Village store downtown.

Really want to see the beach and Lake Michigan? It’s about an hour bike ride or a 15-minute drive to Ottawa Beach at Holland State Park.

Grand Rapids

The Amtrak Grand Rapids (GRR) train station is located at 440 Century Avenue SW.

As the second-largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids offers a lot of things to do. Luckily, the most popular stops are within walking distance of the train station. In fact, it ranks as one of the most walkable cities in the United States.

Downtown Grand Rapids also has an Ambassador program, with someone on duty every day. Call (616) 250-8263 if you have questions or need an escort.

Make time for the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, both less than 1 mile from the station. The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum offers two stories of exhibits and hands-on fun for creative minds.

You can also stroll along the Grand River and check out the Downtown Market for food stalls, local goods, and rooftop views.

With plenty of restaurants to choose from, it really depends on what you’re in the mood for. Want seafood? Leo’s Seafood Restaurant is the place to be. Butcher’s Union is made for meat eaters, with a whiskey bar, too.

When you want something truly out of the ordinary, Max’s South Seas Hideaway is the spot. You’ll forget you’re in West Michigan due to the immersive tropical decor throughout two stories of hidden booths and mood lighting.

Animal lovers should put John Ball Zoo on the itinerary. It’s about 2 miles from the train station, and you’ll likely want a ride to get there. However, with more than 2,000 animals, interactive exhibits, and events throughout the year, it’s well worth it.

Don’t Confuse This Pere Marquette With the Dozens of Others

There’s more than one Pere Marquette in Michigan and across the Midwest. From rivers to state parks to scenic drives, the name pops up everywhere thanks to the 17th-century French missionary it honors.

But, when you’re talking about the Pere Marquette train, you’re specifically referring to the Amtrak route connecting Grand Rapids to Chicago. Even the Pere Marquette Rail Trail is a different type of adventure, about 100 miles northwest of Grand Rapids.

One final travel tip for the Pere Marquette line: If you’re taking the ride back to Chicago, pick a seat on the west-facing side. You’ll get to see the epic Golden hour of sunset over Lake Michigan.