$177 Cheap Flights to Big Rapids, MI

Flights to Big Rapids at a glance

Traveling to Big Rapids is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare travel times and select the best option that aligns with your budget and schedule as you plan to visit the city's well-known attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airport near Big Rapids: Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)
• Flights per week: 2,000+ flights arriving at Big Rapids airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Big Rapids: around 15+ carriers

Popular airport near Big Rapids

Big Rapids is a charming city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, scenic getaways, and romantic retreats. Visitors flock to Big Rapids for its breathtaking landscapes, adventure opportunities, and sports activities. This city is conveniently accessible via a major airport, along with several other airports nearby, making travel planning a breeze.

• Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR): Situated in Kent County, Michigan, approximately 56 miles from Big Rapids, this airport facilitates both domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 180 domestic cities and more than 50 international destinations. Passengers have the option to enhance their travel experience by selecting premium economy or first-class seating for additional comfort, depending on the specific routes and airlines. Notable carriers operating here include American Airlines, United, and Delta.

Top routes to Big Rapids

• Orlando (MCO) to Big Rapids (GRR), with one-way fares starting at around $55
• Denver (DEN) to Big Rapids (GRR), with one-way tickets available from around $70
• Las Vegas (LAS) to Big Rapids (GRR), with one-way flights starting at around $110
• Tampa (TPA) to Big Rapids (GRR), with one-way flights starting at around $85
• Phoenix (PHX) to Big Rapids (GRR), with one-way flight options from around $110

Cheapest routes to Big Rapids

• Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Big Rapids (GRR), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
• Raleigh (RDU) to Big Rapids (GRR), with affordable one-way prices from around $55
• Orlando (MCO) to Big Rapids (GRR), with budget one-way fares from around $55
• Fort Myers (RSW) to Big Rapids (GRR), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $65
• Atlanta (ATL) to Big Rapids (GRR), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $65

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Big Rapids

• American Airlines: This carrier services Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) and represents roughly 36% of arrivals to Big Rapids. The typical one-way fare is about $270, with premium cabins potentially including first class depending on the specific route.
• United: Operating flights to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), United comprises approximately 24% of arrivals in Big Rapids. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $290, with first class available as a premium cabin option on select routes.
• Delta: Serving Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), Delta accounts for about 22% of arrivals to Big Rapids. One-way fares generally hover around $280, with premium cabin options that may include both premium economy and first class based on the route.
• Southwest Airlines: This airline operates to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) and makes up about 13% of arrivals to Big Rapids. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of roughly $250.
• Frontier Airlines: Providing flights to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), Frontier accounts for around 4% of arrivals to Big Rapids. The average one-way fare is approximately $170, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers.

Best time to fly to Big Rapids

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Big Rapids are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Big Rapids can reach up to 43.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 61.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $222), roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? August, October, and May offer average one-way fares of around $232, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Big Rapids

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Big Rapids is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Big Rapids hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Big Rapids flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Big Rapids

Big Rapids welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Big Rapids efficiently:

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Big Rapids, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Big Rapids is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Big Rapids on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Big Rapids

• Stanwood: Nestled 8 miles drive away from Big Rapids, Stanwood offers a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing at the renowned Tulleymore Golf Course or relaxing by the serene Lake of the Clouds, perfect for scenic strolls. The city also features a local landmark, Ferris State University, which adds a vibrant college atmosphere. If you’re looking for a blend of nature and leisure, Stanwood’s nearby national state park and event conference venues provide excellent opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
• Paris: Located 6 miles drive away from Big Rapids, Paris is a charming destination ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. The tranquil Townline Lake invites romance and leisure, while the Big Rapids Riverwalk offers a delightful esplanade for families and couples alike. Paris also boasts recreational areas and golf courses, making it a versatile spot for relaxation and adventure. With its proximity to a national state park and scenic dunes, this city is perfect for nature lovers seeking a memorable getaway.
• Rodney: Situated 8 miles drive away from Big Rapids, Rodney is a quaint city that appeals to travelers seeking outdoor experiences and stunning landscapes. The local golf courses and recreational areas provide ample opportunities for activity, while the inviting beaches and urban parks create a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Key highlights include Lake of the Clouds, a romantic spot for couples, and Ferris State University, which adds a youthful energy to the area. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, Rodney offers a perfect blend of leisure and adventure.

Tips for short-haul flights to Big Rapids

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and organizing outfits strategically. This also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time and carry a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Big Rapids

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines may allow you to select a seat for free once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines even permit seat selection earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to ensure you have enough time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take a moment to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Big Rapids

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Big Rapids on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

October is the cheapest month to fly to Big Rapids. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Big Rapids. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Big Rapids, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Big Rapids

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Big Rapids in 2026 starts from $284, while one-way tickets start from from $177. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Big Rapids. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Big Rapids

Delta, United, American Airlines are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Big Rapids. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Big Rapids and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Big Rapids, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Big Rapids. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Big Rapids plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Big Rapids

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Big Rapids.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Big Rapids are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Big Rapids. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Big Rapids for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Big Rapids. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Big Rapids flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Big Rapids. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.