Top 13 Destinations with Cheap Flights from Grand Rapids Right Now

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Real talk: getting flight deals from Gerald R. Ford International used to mean accepting defeat and driving to Detroit or Chicago. But after spending way too many hours stalking airfares (and learning the hard way), I’ve found some seriously amazing routes that’ll make you forget those long drives down I-96 ever existed.

These are the best places in West Michigan to snag affordable flights, and I’m genuinely excited to share them. Just last month, I scored an incredible deal to Nashville and spent my days between the honky tonks of Broadway and the food scene in East Nashville, all for less than a weekend at the lakeshore. Here are 13 destinations that prove you don’t need a major hub airport to find killer travel deals.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Grand Rapids

Looking for cheap places to fly from Grand Rapids? Before jumping into all the coolest cities and airports to fly into, I want to share a quick tip to save money on airfare.

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. GRR) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $425 roundtrip fare from Detroit to London. On average, I save about $350 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Affordable Travel Destinations from Grand Rapids

Looking for affordable travel destinations from Grand Rapids? Visit St. Louis for its iconic Gateway Arch and vibrant blues music scene, Indianapolis for motorsports and cultural attractions, Milwaukee for scenic lakefront views and famous breweries, and Cincinnati for historic architecture and a thriving food scene. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer budget-friendly getaways from Grand Rapids.

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Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

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1. Grand Rapids to St. Louis ($170–$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, United, Southwest (usually 1 stop in Chicago)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌞 and September to October 🍂 for baseball season and outdoor festivals without extreme heat
• 🏆 Perfect for: Sports fans ⚾, food lovers 🍖, beer enthusiasts 🍺, budget travelers 💰

St. Louis is a vibrant river city with iconic architecture, incredible free attractions, and some of the best barbecue in the country. The vibe is local, affordable, and packed with unexpected gems you won’t find in bigger cities.

The Gateway Arch is famous for its breathtaking views, while Forest Park is so massive you can actually spend an entire weekend exploring its free zoo, art museum, and science center, pretty rare for major US attractions. Don’t miss Busch Stadium during baseball season when Cardinals fans create one of the most electric atmospheres in sports, or the City Museum, which is basically an adult playground disguised as an art installation.

To score the best fares, book six to eight weeks out and fly midweek. Southwest occasionally runs flash sales with nonstop options, while American and United usually offer solid deals through Chicago.

Visit in spring or fall for perfect festival weather, fewer crowds, and a break from that infamous Midwest humidity.

2. Grand Rapids to Indianapolis ($145–$215 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, American, United (usually connecting through Detroit or Chicago)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🏁 for racing events, summer festivals, and comfortable weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Sports enthusiasts 🏎️, history buffs 🏛️, craft beer fans 🍺, family travelers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Indianapolis is way cooler than people give it credit for. This city hits the sweet spot between big city fun and small city prices without trying too hard.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is obviously what everyone knows about, but don’t just come during race season. The museum there has some seriously sick vintage race cars, and you can actually tour the track most days. White River State Park is right downtown with the Indiana State Museum and Indianapolis Zoo all in one place, making it super easy to hit multiple attractions without driving all over town.

For the best deals, Delta flights through Detroit often dip under $175 roundtrip, especially midweek. American also offers competitive options via Chicago, but double-check those baggage fees before booking.

If you’re looking for a low-key weekend with just the right amount of energy, Indy might just surprise you.

3. Grand Rapids to Milwaukee ($133–$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, American (connecting through Detroit or Chicago), occasionally United
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September 🎭 for lakefront festivals and perfect brewery-hopping weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beer lovers 🍺, foodies 🧀, music fans 🎸, lakefront enthusiasts ⛵

Milwaukee is one of the most underrated weekend escapes from Grand Rapids. This lakefront gem delivers serious value with top-tier breweries, vibrant festivals, and way fewer tourist crowds than its neighbor, Chicago.

The Historic Third Ward is packed with converted warehouses now housing art galleries, restaurants, and the must-visit Milwaukee Public Market where you can sample local specialties like cheese curds and craft beer all under one roof. Lakefront Brewery tours are legendary with generous pours and hilarious guides who make even non-beer drinkers have a blast. And the Harley-Davidson Museum is surprisingly awesome even if you’ve never touched a motorcycle.

Flight deals pop up about 6–8 weeks out, with Delta through Detroit usually offering the best combo of price and convenience around $165 roundtrip. American occasionally drops fares below $140 if you’re cool with a Chicago connection. 

4. Grand Rapids to Cincinnati ($151–$230 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, American (usually connecting through Detroit or Chicago)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October 🏙️ for baseball season, food festivals, and perfect riverfront weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Foodies 🍽️, sports fans ⚾, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, architecture lovers 🏛️

Cincinnati is seriously underrated and surprisingly affordable to reach from Grand Rapids. This river city has completely transformed over the last decade with killer food, drinks, and culture scenes that won’t destroy your wallet.

Over-the-Rhine is the neighborhood everyone talks about, packed with beautifully restored 19th-century buildings now housing breweries, boutiques, and restaurants that give major European vibes. The Findlay Market is Ohio‘s oldest continuously operated public market where you can sample everything from goetta (the weird-but-delicious local breakfast meat) to artisanal gelato. Rhinegeist Brewery is housed in a massive former bottling plant with a rooftop that offers killer skyline views.

Flights are cheapest about two months out, with Delta offering the best combo of price and connections through Detroit around $180 roundtrip. American sometimes runs competitive deals through Chicago but tend to have longer layovers.

Cincinnati proves that quick, budget-friendly trips don’t have to be boring.

5. Grand Rapids to Pittsburgh ($177–$260 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 20 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, American, United (connecting through Detroit, Chicago, or Philadelphia)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🍂 for outdoor activities, sports games, and perfect weather for exploring neighborhoods
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food explorers 🥪, sports fanatics 🏈, history buffs 🏛️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌉

Pittsburgh is totally misunderstood and way more affordable than you’d expect for a flight from Grand Rapids. This city of bridges has transformed from steel town to cool town with incredible food, unique museums, and stunning views that’ll blow up your Instagram.

The Point is where the three rivers meet and offers that iconic Pittsburgh skyline photo everyone wants. Ride the historic Duquesne Incline up to Mount Washington for those killer panoramic views of downtown that make everyone think your travel budget is way bigger than it is. The Strip District is a food lover’s paradise where you can score everything from authentic Italian sandwiches at Primanti Bros (with fries ON the sandwich) to fresh pierogies for practically nothing.

For getting there, Delta usually offers the best value when booked 6 to 8 weeks in advance, with roundtrip fares around $200. Visit in early fall for crisp air, colorful hills, and outdoor events all over the city.

6. Grand Rapids to Columbus ($120-$200 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, United (connecting through Chicago), occasionally Delta
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October 🍂 for outdoor festivals, college football, and perfect patio weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Sports fans 🏈, craft beer lovers 🍺, food explorers 🍽️, college town vibes 🎓

Columbus is a vibrant college town with big city amenities that delivers way more than people expect without draining your wallet.

Short North is the city’s creative heart, packed with galleries, boutiques, and buzzing patios housed in restored Victorian buildings. Nearby, German Village feels like a step back in time with its brick streets, charming shops, and the massive Book Loft with 32 maze-like rooms. And then there’s Scioto Mile, which offers a gorgeous riverfront park with fountains, trails, and even outdoor concerts during summer months.

Flights are typically cheapest when booked 6 to 8 weeks out. American offers solid deals through Chicago, often under $140 roundtrip. United follows similar routes, though fees can add up. Nonstop flights are rare but sometimes available for around $180.

Time your visit in early fall when football energy takes over the city and outdoor dining is still in full swing.

7. Grand Rapids to Louisville ($147–$225 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, American (connecting through Detroit, Chicago, or Atlanta)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October 🥃 for bourbon season, horse racing, and perfect outdoor weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Bourbon enthusiasts 🥃, horse racing fans 🏇, food lovers 🍗, music scene explorers 🎵

Louisville is way more than just the Kentucky Derby and surprisingly affordable to reach from Grand Rapids. This river city has tons of iconic attractions where you can drink, explore, and soak up culture without the crowds you’d find in bigger Southern cities.

Bourbon Row on Main Street has transformed historic whiskey warehouses into distilleries where you can sample Kentucky’s famous spirit without leaving downtown. The Urban Bourbon Trail connects 40+ bars each stocking at least 50 different bourbons, making bar hopping actually educational. And don’t miss Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, where you can tour the museum and catch live races even when it’s not Derby season.

For the best flight deals, fly with Delta connecting through Detroit, or spend a bit less with American if you’re willing to deal with potentially longer layovers in Chicago.

• Read next: Magical Places to Visit in Kentucky

8. Grand Rapids to Nashville ($99–$185 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Allegiant (direct), American, Delta (connecting through Chicago or Detroit)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October 🎸 for perfect weather, music festivals, and fewer tourist crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎵, foodies 🍗, nightlife seekers 🍻, bachelor/bachelorette parties 🎉

Nashville is the cheapest “cool city” destination you can reach from Grand Rapids, with direct flight options that make weekend trips actually doable. This music mecca delivers way more than just country tunes with food, drinks, and neighborhoods that rival cities twice its size.

Broadway is the famous neon-lit strip where honky-tonks blast live music from morning till night with no cover charges. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Robert’s Western World are classics where you might catch tomorrow’s stars playing for tips. Skip the tourist traps and head to The Gulch for better restaurants and Station Inn for authentic bluegrass jams.

Flights are cheapest with Allegiant, often under $100 roundtrip, though bags cost extra. American and Delta usually run $160–$180 with smoother schedules if booked 6–8 weeks out.

Spring and fall are prime times to explore Music City, when rooftop bars come alive with the perfect temperature for outdoor concerts.

9. Grand Rapids to Toronto ($300–$420 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 25 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Air Canada, United, Delta (often connecting through Chicago or Detroit)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🍁 for outdoor festivals, patio season, and perfect weather for neighborhood exploring
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, foodies 🍜, culture seekers 🎭, international vibes without flying overseas 🌎

Toronto is a quick international escape that feels far bigger than the flight time suggests. This multicultural city blends global neighborhoods, bold food scenes, and skyline views without the jet lag.

Kensington Market is packed with vintage shops, global street food, and colorful murals perfect for wandering without a set agenda. The CN Tower is obviously iconic, but skip the tourist lines and hit up a rooftop bar like The Porch for similar views with cocktails included. Toronto Islands are just a quick ferry ride from downtown but feel like a complete escape with car-free paths, beaches, and unreal skyline views.

When flying from Grand Rapids, watch for Air Canada sales which can drop fares to around $320 roundtrip connecting through Chicago. Delta through Detroit typically offers slightly higher fares but shorter overall travel times. 

The US dollar usually stretches further here, making food and hotels surprisingly affordable.

10. Grand Rapids to Des Moines ($101–$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, United (connecting through Chicago), occasionally Allegiant with seasonal direct flights
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🌽 for farmers markets, state fair, and outdoor sculptures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food explorers 🧀, art enthusiasts 🎨, political junkies 🗳️, budget travelers 💰

Des Moines might be the most underrated city on this entire list and offers some of the cheapest flights from Grand Rapids. This surprisingly hip capital city has transformed into a legit food and art destination that’ll make you question everything you thought about Iowa.

The East Village neighborhood is packed with indie boutiques, craft cocktail bars, and farm-to-table restaurants housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. Pappajohn Sculpture Park drops 28 world-class sculptures right in the middle of downtown that you can wander through completely free. And the Des Moines Social Club hosts everything from circus classes to indie concerts in a former firehouse.

Score the cheapest fares by booking 4-6 weeks out with American or United connecting through Chicago, usually running around $130-150 roundtrip midweek. Allegiant sometimes drops direct flights under $100 if you’re flexible with dates and bags.

11. Grand Rapids to Buffalo ($204–$285 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, United (connecting through Detroit or Chicago)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October 🍁 for waterfront activities, food festivals, and nearby fall foliage
• 🏆 Perfect for: Waterfall chasers 💦, architecture buffs 🏛️, wing enthusiasts 🍗, sports fanatics 🏈

Buffalo is more than a gateway to Niagara Falls. It’s a revitalized city with an impressive food scene, walkable neighborhoods, and restored waterfront spaces that surprise first-timers.

Canalside has completely reinvented the formerly industrial waterfront with outdoor concerts, kayak rentals, and winter ice skating that bring the Erie Canal history back to life. Elmwood Village feels like a small-town main street packed with local shops, cafes, and some of the city’s best restaurants all within walking distance. The stunning Frank Lloyd Wright houses including Martin House Complex offer architectural tours that would cost triple in bigger cities.

Look for flight deals about 2-3 months ahead with Delta connecting through Detroit for around $240 roundtrip. United occasionally offers competitive fares through Chicago but often with longer layovers. 

The extra cost compared to other Midwest destinations is worth it when you factor in seeing one of the world’s great natural wonders.

12. Grand Rapids to Madison ($88–$165 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 50 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, American (connecting through Detroit or Chicago), occasionally United
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October 🌞 for farmers markets, lakefront activities, and college football
• 🏆 Perfect for: College town explorers 🎓, outdoor enthusiasts 🚴‍♂️, craft beer fans 🍺, farmers market lovers 🧀

Madison offers one of the best-value weekend escapes from Grand Rapids. This lakefront college town is packed with charm, energy, and more waterfront than most coastal cities.

On Saturdays, Capitol Square hosts one of the largest producer-only farmers markets in the country, wrapping around Wisconsin’s stunning state capitol. State Street connects the capitol to the University of Wisconsin campus with a pedestrian-friendly corridor packed with indie shops, global cuisine, and student-friendly bars that welcome all ages.The city sits between Lakes Mendota and Monona, giving it more shoreline than you’d expect. 

For flights, book Delta connecting through Detroit about 4-6 weeks out, and you’ll often find deals under $100 roundtrip midweek. American through Chicago usually costs a bit more, but also offers more flight options. 

Fall brings vibrant foliage and electric football energy without the big-city prices.

13. Grand Rapids to Omaha ($70–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time from U.S.: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: United, American (connecting through Chicago), occasionally Allegiant with seasonal direct options
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October 🏙️ for perfect weather, College World Series, and uncrowded attractions
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food explorers 🥩, baseball fans ⚾, history buffs 🚂, budget travelers looking for the ultimate deal 💸

Omaha is the absolute cheapest flight from Grand Rapids on this entire list. This surprisingly cool city delivers way more than you’d expect from “somewhere in Nebraska.”

Old Market district is where everyone starts their visit with cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and restaurants with patios perfect for people-watching. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge lets you literally stand in two states at once as it crosses the Missouri River with great skyline views. And just minutes from downtown, the Henry Doorly Zoo ranks among the world’s best with massive indoor ecosystems that make you forget you’re in the Midwest. 

Flights with United through Chicago often dip below $100 roundtrip midweek. Allegiant sometimes offers seasonal direct flights under $140 if you book early.

Omaha packs in more for less, making it a smart choice for travelers on a budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Grand Rapids

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Grand Rapids? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Grand Rapids to anywhere.

Which destinations are typically the cheapest to fly to from Grand Rapids?

A variety of destinations offer affordable flights from Grand Rapids. Domestic cities such as Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis frequently have competitive rates. On the international front, Toronto often emerges as a budget-friendly option. However, it’s always good to keep an eye out for seasonal deals and promotions to other destinations.

How can I find the best deals on flights from Grand Rapids?

To secure the best deals, use flight comparison websites that aggregate prices from various airlines. Setting up fare alerts can notify you when prices drop for your preferred destination. Additionally, consider flying on weekdays, avoiding major holidays, and being flexible with your travel dates to capitalize on off-peak season rates.

Are there direct flights available from Grand Rapids to popular destinations?

Absolutely! Many airlines offer direct flights from Grand Rapids to a range of popular destinations. The availability of direct flights often depends on the season and demand, so it’s beneficial to check schedules in advance.

Which airlines typically offer the cheapest flights from Grand Rapids?

Airlines such as Southwest, Allegiant Air, and Frontier are known for their competitive rates from Grand Rapids. However, prices can fluctuate, so it’s wise to compare multiple airlines and consider any additional fees they might charge.

Is it cheaper to book flights from Grand Rapids in advance or last minute?

Generally, booking flights several weeks or even months in advance can yield better prices. While last-minute deals can occasionally pop up, they’re less predictable and can be a gamble, especially during peak travel seasons.

What’s the best time of year to find cheap flights from Grand Rapids?

Fall and spring, considered off-peak seasons, often present more affordable flight options. During these times, fewer travelers and lower demand can result in reduced airfares.

Do flight prices from Grand Rapids fluctuate during the year?

Indeed, flight prices can vary significantly based on factors like demand, seasonality, and airline promotions. Monitoring prices over time and being flexible with travel dates can help you snag a great deal.

Are there any nearby airports that might offer cheaper flights than Grand Rapids?

While Grand Rapids provides competitive flight prices, it might be worth checking fares from nearby airports such as Detroit Metropolitan Airport or Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Sometimes, larger airports have more flight options and potential deals.

What cities does Allegiant fly to from Grand Rapids?

Allegiant currently offers flights from Grand Rapids to destinations like Orlando, Las Vegas, Tampa/St. Pete, and Punta Gorda, among others.

How long is the average flight from Grand Rapids to popular destinations?

Flight durations can vary. For instance, a flight to Chicago might be around an hour, while a journey to Toronto could take an hour and a half or slightly more. Factors like wind speed, flight path, and layovers (if it’s not a direct flight) can influence travel time.

Are there any travel restrictions or requirements when flying from Grand Rapids?

Travel restrictions and requirements can change based on global events, health advisories, and destination-specific regulations. Before booking, it’s crucial to check with airlines, the destination’s official tourism website, or consulate for up-to-date travel advisories or requirements.

When planning your trip, thorough research and consultation with airlines or travel agencies can ensure a smooth and cost-effective journey. Safe travels!