- Must visit
Detroit Institute of Arts
Major fine arts museum known for its encyclopedic collection and Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
Cheapest price
$153
Average price
$203
Fastest journey
8 h 6 m
Average duration
12 h 31 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
453 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI will cost around $203 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $153.
It's difficult to get from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI without transferring at least once.
49 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
449 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
49 Lake Shore Limited · 352 Wolverine
449 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
49 Lake Shore Limited · 6049 AMTRAK
49 Lake Shore Limited · 352 WolverineOmio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $224.
Distance: 281 miles (453 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$145 Average price | $86 Average price Cheapest | $439 Average price | $86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 19m Average total duration 7h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 15m Average total duration 8h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 57m Average total duration Fastest 5h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI:
A bus is $58 (€47) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI costing on average $145 (€117).
A bus is $352 (€285) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI costing on average $439 (€354).
Other travel options to Detroit, MI take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 49m.
Bus takes on average 8h 45m.
Tickets start at around $145 (€117) compared to roughly $86 (€70) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-58.50 (€-47.29). The journey takes 7h 49m versus 5h 3m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI trains for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3:29 AM Rochester, NY | 8h06 | 11:35 AM Detroit, MI | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) but you can travel from only $61 (€49) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 09:35, the last at 23:29. The fastest train covers the 281 miles (453 km) distance in 8h 6m.
Distance 281 miles (453 km) |
Average train duration 7h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 (€65) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 8h 6m |
First train 9:35 AM |
Last train 11:29 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Discover the best of Detroit — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Detroit trip today.
Major fine arts museum known for its encyclopedic collection and Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
Large museum in the Detroit area showcasing transportation, industry, design, and iconic American artifacts.
Historic Hitsville U.S.A. museum preserving the story of Motown Records and its legendary artists.
Popular waterfront promenade with skyline views, public art, and easy walking between downtown and riverfront parks.
Island park with gardens, trails, water views, and several cultural attractions, popular with locals and visitors.
Historic market district famous for murals, weekend markets, and one of Detroit’s strongest local atmospheres.
A rectangular, deep-pan pizza with a thick yet airy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and sauce layered on top. It is one of Detroit’s most iconic local foods.
A hot dog in a bun topped with chili, mustard, and chopped onions. The Detroit coney is a classic local fast-food staple tied to the city’s Greek-American diner tradition.
A traditional Detroit float made with Vernors ginger ale and vanilla ice cream. Despite the name, it is a distinctly Detroit dessert drink.
A long-running Hamtramck favorite for hearty Polish dishes in a warm, traditional basement setting near Detroit.
A respected modern Detroit restaurant known for seasonal small plates, strong cocktails, and an upscale but relaxed atmosphere.
A polished downtown dining room in the Detroit Foundation Hotel, known for contemporary American cooking and stylish surroundings.
Moderate for U.S. city travel. Hotels vary widely, while casual dining, coffee, and local transport are usually manageable for most visitors.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants before tax. Bartenders: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 1-5. Not usually expected for counter service, but appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rochester, NY to Detroit, MI by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Detroit, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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