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Michigan
Amtrak Train Routes In Michigan
Published: June 27, 2025
By: Adam Burns
Michigan, known as the Great Lakes State, offers a diverse range of travel options for both residents and visitors alike. While driving is a common mode of transportation, passenger trains provide an excellent alternative, allowing travelers to relax, enjoy scenic views, and explore the state's many attractions.
In this article, we'll explore the current passenger train services available in Michigan, highlighting their routes, amenities, and the unique experiences they offer.
A special Amtrak control unit, #90218, brings up the rear of westbound train at Botsford Yard in Kalamazoo, Michigan on July 13, 2008. Rob Kitchen photo.
Amtrak
Amtrak's Michigan Service offers several routes that connect Michigan to neighboring states The below information delves into the details of this service, highlighting the routes, amenities, and the captivating experiences awaiting passengers.
Wolverine Service
The Wolverine Service is a popular route serving Chicago and Detroit, Michigan, with several stops in between. The train offers daily departures and arrivals, making it convenient for travelers.
Along the route, passengers can experience the beauty of Michigan's countryside, including charming towns and picturesque landscapes. The train features comfortable seating, Wi-Fi access, power outlets, and an onboard café for refreshments.
Blue Water
Amtrak's Blue Water offers a picturesque route that showcases the beauty of Michigan's eastern shoreline. The train makes stops at cities such as East Lansing, Flint, and Durand before reaching Port Huron.
The service provides opportunities for passengers to explore vibrant college towns, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions.
The Blue Water prioritizes passenger comfort, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable journey. The train features comfortable seating with ample legroom, allowing passengers to unwind and take in the scenic views along the way.
Passengers can stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi access, making it convenient to catch up on work, browse the internet, or simply stay in touch with loved ones.
The Blue Water offers convenient travel options for both locals and visitors. The train operates daily, providing flexibility for passengers to plan their journeys. Whether you're embarking on a day trip or a longer adventure, the Blue Water ensures a seamless and comfortable travel experience.
Pere Marquette
Michigan's West Coast is renowned for its sandy beaches, picturesque sunsets, and charming lakeside towns. Amtrak's Pere Marquette offers a delightful way to explore this enchanting region, connecting Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Chicago, Illinois.
This scenic passenger train route takes travelers along the shores of Lake Michigan, providing a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation. In this article, we'll delve into the details of the Pere Marquette, highlighting the route, amenities, and the captivating experiences that await passengers.
The service offers a captivating route that showcases the natural beauty of Michigan's West Coast. The train makes stops at cities such as Holland, St. Joseph, and New Buffalo, allowing passengers to explore charming lakeside communities, visit pristine beaches, and discover local attractions. As the train travels along the route, passengers are treated to stunning views of Lake Michigan's shimmering waters and golden sand dunes.
The Pere Marquette includes an onboard café car, offering a variety of food and beverage options for passengers to enjoy. Whether you're craving a hot cup of coffee, a light snack, or a refreshing beverage, the café car provides a convenient and satisfying dining experience. Sit back, relax, and savor the flavors as you take in the scenic beauty outside your window.
One of the highlights of the Pere Marquette is the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of Lake Michigan. As the train hugs the shoreline, passengers can marvel at the crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and picturesque coastal landscapes. The journey provides an intimate connection with the natural splendor of the area, creating lasting memories.
The Pere Marquette offers convenient travel options for both locals and visitors. The train operates with daily departures, providing flexibility for passengers to plan their trips. Whether you're embarking on a day excursion or a longer adventure, the Pere Marquette ensures a seamless and comfortable travel experience.
Indian Trails (Bus Service)
Indian Trails is a regional passenger bus service that connects various cities in Michigan, including Detroit, Flint, Lansing, and Traverse City. Although not a train service, Indian Trails provides an affordable and convenient transportation option for travelers who wish to explore different parts of the state. The buses offer comfortable seating, onboard restrooms, and ample storage space for luggage.
Detroit People Mover
The Detroit People Mover is an automated light rail system that operates on an elevated track, providing efficient and convenient transportation throughout downtown Detroit. With 13 stations strategically located around the city center, this driverless train system allows passengers to easily access major attractions, entertainment venues, dining hotspots, and business districts.
The Detroit People Mover's route covers a 2.94-mile loop, making it easy to navigate the downtown area. The system operates in a counterclockwise direction, and each train arrives at stations approximately every 3 to 4 minutes. Some of the key stops along the route include:
Grand Circus Park Station: Located near the historic Grand Circus Park, this stop offers access to the Detroit Opera House, Comerica Park (home of the Detroit Tigers baseball team), and the lively entertainment district.
Renaissance Center Station: Situated within the iconic GM Renaissance Center, this stop provides direct access to the complex's shops, restaurants, hotels, and the Detroit RiverWalk, offering stunning views of the Detroit River.
Greektown Station: Nestled in Detroit's vibrant Greektown district, this stop is perfect for experiencing Greek cuisine, lively nightlife, and the Greektown Casino-Hotel.
Financial District Station: This stop puts you in the heart of Detroit's bustling financial district, surrounded by major corporations, high-rise buildings, and the historic Guardian Building.
A new Amtrak "Turboliner" heads out of Kalamazoo, Michigan in July, 1977. Rob Kitchen photo.
Conclusion
Whether you're exploring the scenic landscapes of the Wolverine Service, enjoying the coastal views of the Pere Marquette, or hopping on the Detroit People Mover to navigate downtown Detroit, there's a train service to suit every traveler's needs. Embrace the convenience, comfort, and unique experiences that Michigan's passenger train services provide, and embark on a memorable journey through the Great Lakes State.
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Chesapeake & Ohio Class L 4-6-4 Hudsons. Eight L-2s, five L-1 rebuilds, five L-2-As. Specs, Baldwin works numbers, and the roster. No. 490 survives.
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Alton Railroad, chartered February 27, 1847 as the Alton & Sangamon. Chicago, St. Louis, and Kansas City, the 1937 Official Guide, and the May 31, 1947 merger into the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio.
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Mobile & Ohio steam since 1900. Drury's class grid: 48 six-wheel switchers, 107 Ten-Wheelers, 15 Consolidations, 58 Mikados, and 14 Pacifics. Last revenue steam October 7, 1949.
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Oct 09, 26 11:31 AM
Mobile & Ohio Railroad, chartered in 1848. Columbus on April 22, 1861, the Cairo & St. Louis, the March 1940 Official Guide, and the September 13, 1940 merger into the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio.
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Oct 09, 26 10:42 AM
Gulf, Mobile & Northern steam since 1900. Drury's class grid: Ten-Wheelers, Mikados, Russian Decapods, Pacifics 425 and 426, and three light 4-8-2s. Last revenue steam October 7, 1949.
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Oct 09, 26 10:41 AM
Gulf, Mobile & Ohio diesel roster, all-time. The 1935 boxcab, DL-107s, 55 FA-1s, F3s and F7s, the Ingalls 4-S, GP30s through GP38-2s, and 21 SD40s. Serials and order numbers.
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Oct 09, 26 10:36 AM
Gulf, Mobile & Northern, from the 1890 Mobile, Jackson & Kansas City to the Rebel and the September 13, 1940 merger into the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio. Steam roster is the companion page.
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Oct 08, 26 11:48 PM
Gulf, Mobile & Ohio, chartered in 1938 and merged September 13, 1940. The Mobile & Ohio, the Alton on May 31, 1947, the Rebel Route, and Illinois Central Gulf on August 10, 1972.
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Oct 08, 26 11:37 PM
New Jersey railroad museums—Whippany, Maywood, Pine Creek, Mahwah’s Erie depot, Phillipsburg, and Boonton. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 08, 26 11:34 PM
New Hampshire railroad museums—North Conway, the Flying Yankee, Ashland, Gorham, Raymond, and Sandown. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 08, 26 11:00 PM
Missouri railroad museums—the National Museum of Transportation, Patee House, Frisco 4524, the Chicago & Alton depot, and Marceline. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 08, 26 04:28 PM
Milwaukee Road X3800, the a home-built shop goat that served the Deer Lodge, MT yard. It was a 220-volt DC switcher, powered through an extension cord that moved electrics into a roundhouse where the…
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Oct 08, 26 03:59 PM
Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad, Miami to Key West, 1905–1935. The Seven Mile Bridge, the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, and the road that became U.S. 1.
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Oct 08, 26 02:34 PM
Florida East Coast steam since 1897. Seventeen Ten-Wheelers, twenty Atlantics, eighty-seven Pacifics, ninety Mountains, fifteen Mikados, and the switchers.
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Oct 08, 26 02:12 PM
Florida East Coast diesel roster, all-time. E units from 1939, F3s, BL2s, GP7s and GP9s, the GP40-2 orders, 22 SD40-2s, and 24 ES44C4s. Serials and EMD order numbers.
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Oct 08, 26 01:46 PM
Florida East Coast Railway, Henry Flagler's line from Jacksonville to Miami and Key West. Receivership in 1931, the 1963 strike, Grupo México in 2017, and Brightline on the same track.
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Oct 08, 26 10:32 AM
Minnesota railroad museums—the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, Two Harbors, Jackson Street, Willmar’s Great Northern 2523, and Currie. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 08, 26 09:24 AM
Maine railroad museums—Seashore Trolley, the two-foot lines at Portland, Alna, and Phillips, Boothbay, and the Bangor & Aroostook depots. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 08, 26 12:08 AM
Massachusetts railroad museums—Berkshire Scenic at Lenox, Shelburne Falls trolley No. 10, Edaville, Chatham’s 1887 depot, and Lowell. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 07, 26 12:09 PM
Clinchfield steam since 1900. Fifteen H-4 Consolidations, K-1 Mikados, M-2 and M-3 Mallets, L-class 2-8-8-2s, eighteen Challengers. Class grid after Drury. Last steam April 16, 1954.
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Oct 07, 26 12:05 PM
Clinchfield diesel roster, all-time. F3A 800, FP7 200, the F7s, GP7s, 25 SD40s, 18 SD45-2s, seven U36Cs, and the Family Lines hoods. Serials and EMD order numbers.
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Oct 07, 26 12:02 PM
Clinchfield Railroad, Elkhorn City to Spartanburg. George L. Carter, the Carolina, Clinchfield & Ohio, the 1924 lease, coal, the loops, and CSX. Steam and diesel rosters are companion pages.
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Oct 07, 26 11:39 AM
Kentucky railroad museums—the Kentucky Railway Museum, Bowling Green’s L&N depot, Paducah, Versailles, and Covington. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 07, 26 11:26 AM
Kansas railroad museums—Santa Fe 3768 at Wichita, Santa Fe 132 in Topeka, the Great Overland Station, and Abilene. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 07, 26 10:38 AM
All-time diesel roster of Southern locomotives lettered for the Cincinnati, New Orleans and Texas Pacific. Serials, order numbers, and builder dates.
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Oct 07, 26 10:31 AM
Cincinnati, New Orleans and Texas Pacific Railway, incorporated September 8, 1881, to lease Cincinnati’s railroad to Chattanooga. Queen and Crescent route, Rathole, and the 2024 sale to Norfolk Southe…
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Oct 07, 26 12:26 AM
Indiana railroad museums—Nickel Plate 765, Elkhart’s New York Central collection, French Lick, Linden’s junction depot, and Haley Tower. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 11:52 PM
Erie class P-1 Triplex 2-8-8-8-2s. Three Baldwin compounds, 2603–2605, later 5014–5016, built 1914 and 1916. Matt H. Shay, the 1930 class card, and Virginian XA 700.
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Oct 06, 26 11:47 PM
Illinois railroad museums—the Illinois Railway Museum, Monticello, the Pioneer Zephyr, Galesburg’s Burlington 3006, and the depots. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 11:41 PM
Iowa railroad museums—the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, RailsWest, Sioux City, Boone, and the National Hobo Museum in Britt. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 11:29 PM
Charleston and Western Carolina diesel roster. Twenty-one GP7s, two SW7s, two SW9s, and six F7As, all built 1950–1952. Serials, order numbers, and ACL and SCL numbers.
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Oct 06, 26 11:18 PM
Charleston and Western Carolina Railway, incorporated September 16, 1896. Port Royal to Spartanburg, with branches to Anderson and Greenville. Merged into the Atlantic Coast Line on December 31, 1959.
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Oct 06, 26 04:00 PM
Central of Georgia steam since 1900. Cooke Consolidations, Harriman Mikados, 32 Mountains, and eight Lima 4-8-4s. Class grid after Drury. Last steam May 1953.
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Oct 06, 26 03:44 PM
Central of Georgia diesel roster. SW1 No. 1 in 1939, E7s and E8s, nine F3As, 39 RS3s, GP7s through SD35s. Serials and order numbers.
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Oct 06, 26 03:42 PM
Central of Georgia Railway, from the 1833 Savannah charter to Southern control on June 17, 1963. Map, logos, Nancy Hanks II, and links to the steam and diesel rosters.
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Oct 06, 26 03:33 PM
Georgia railroad museums—Savannah’s Central shops, Duluth, the General at Kennesaw, the Texas in Atlanta, Tifton, Waycross, and Albany. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 03:18 PM
Florida railroad museums—Boca Raton, Winter Garden, Whitehall, the Gold Coast, Parrish, Fort Myers, Milton, and Plant City. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 01:05 PM
Connecticut railroad museums—the Shore Line Trolley, East Windsor, the Naugatuck Railroad, Danbury Union Station, Willimantic, and the SoNo tower. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 12:47 PM
Colorado railroad museums—Golden, the Forney’s Big Boy 4005, Pueblo’s Santa Fe 2912, and the depots at Castle Rock, Limon, and Ridgway. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 12:44 PM
Atlantic Coast Line steam since 1900. Copper Head Ten-Wheelers, 235 P-5 Pacifics, Q-1 Santa Fes, twelve R-1 4-8-4s. Class grid after Drury. Last steam June 30, 1955.
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Oct 06, 26 11:57 AM
Atlantic Coast Line diesel roster. HH660 1900 in 1939, E3s for the Champion, FTs and F2s, GP7s 100–279, GP30s, U25Cs, and the 1967 SCL numbers. Serials and orders.
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Oct 06, 26 11:53 AM
Atlantic Coast Line, the Standard Railroad of the South. April 21, 1900 to July 1, 1967. Plant System, L&N, Clinchfield, the Champion, and the Seaboard Coast Line merger.
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Oct 06, 26 09:50 AM
California railroad museums—the California State Railroad Museum, Perris, Portola, Railtown 1897, and the depots that still stand. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 09:46 AM
Arizona railroad museums—the Arizona Railway Museum in Chandler, Southern Pacific 1673 at Tucson, and the McCormick-Stillman park in Scottsdale.
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Oct 06, 26 09:07 AM
Arkansas railroad museums—Cotton Belt 819 at Pine Bluff, the Fort Smith trolley, the Mammoth Spring depot, and the Eureka Springs railway.
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Oct 06, 26 09:03 AM
Alabama railroad museums—Heart of Dixie at Calera, the North Alabama museum at Chase, Huntsville’s 1860 depot, and Fort Payne. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 06, 26 12:09 AM
Pennsylvania railroad museums—Strasburg, Steamtown, the Horseshoe Curve, the East Broad Top, and the depots and towers in between. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 05, 26 11:53 PM
Maryland railroad museums—the Baltimore roundhouse, Ellicott City station, Bowie, Gaithersburg’s Buffalo Creek & Gauley 14, and the Western Maryland collections.
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Oct 05, 26 05:51 PM
Ohio railroad museums—the Age of Steam Roundhouse, Bellevue, Worthington, Conneaut’s Nickel Plate 755, and the Dennison depot. Confirm hours on each site.
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Oct 05, 26 02:43 PM
Delaware railroad museums—Wilmington & Western at Greenbank, the Harrington tower and N5 caboose, Felton's 1868 depot, and the Selbyville station museum.
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