Traveling by train from Chicago to Seattle? With Amtrak’s Empire Builder, you can embark on a cross-country adventure that departs Chicago’s Union Station every day and arrives at King Street Station in Seattle after a 1,733-mile journey across America’s beautiful terrain.
This picturesque travel option takes 46 hours. The Empire Builder route spans through the Midwest’s rolling prairies, the Rocky Mountains in Montana, the rugged terrain of Idaho, and the evergreen forests of Washington.
Beat the competition on affordability! Coach tickets begin at $89. For added comfort, choose a sleeper roomette, which also includes complimentary full-service dining car meals.
For your entertainment, you can relax in the Sightseer Lounge Car, which has a panoramic ceiling and also serves as a dining car. Enjoy a spacious car with reclining seats and power outlets.
Why Take the Train from Chicago to Seattle?
There is something undeniably romantic and deeply satisfying about watching the American landscape unfold from a train window. The journey from Chicago to Seattle by Amtrak is not just transportation – it is a travel experience that millions of passengers choose every year for very good reasons.
The scenery is spectacular: The scenery is spectacular. As you travel west, the train passes through golden plains in Illinois and Wisconsin. It then climbs into the Rocky Mountains of Montana. You pass dense forests and evergreens as it cuts through Idaho. Finally, the train descends into Washington State’s lush Pacific Northwest. This kind of natural theatre is not available on a flight, a highway drive, or a bus.
Second, the comfort is very important: The freedom of movement on long-distance trains is a great benefit. The dining car is within walking distance; you can stretch your legs and sleep comfortably in a roomette if booked. When compared to an uncomfortable airplane seat or sitting behind a wheel for hours on end, the decision is clear.
Third, there is a real environmental advantage: A train trip has a lower carbon footprint for each passenger than flying solo or driving. Train travel from Chicago is the most sustainable option for those who are concerned about sustainability.
The price is another important factor: Coach tickets for this route can often be surprisingly cheap, even though sleeper accommodations are expensive. Save on hidden costs such as airport parking fees, checked luggage, gasoline, and more.
If you’re a single adventurer or a couple looking for an alternative to a road trip, a family seeking a new experience, someone wanting to explore America slowly and from the bottom up, the train between Chicago and Seattle is worth serious consideration.
Which Amtrak Trains Run from Chicago to Seattle?
Empire Builder: This is Amtrak’s main service which connects Chicago with Seattle.
- Amtrak’s Empire Builder is a beloved and iconic long-distance train: The Empire Builder, which is named for James J. Hill, who, as a railroad pioneer, was known throughout the Pacific Northwest region as the “Empire Builder”, has operated in different forms since 1929. Amtrak operates this route as a flagship, and it consistently ranks in the top ten long-distance trains on the national network.
- Empire Builder has a unique feature: it is divided into two sections west of Spokane in Washington. One section travels northward to Seattle’s King Street Station, while the other continues south to Portland, Oregon, Union Station. From Chicago, both sections will travel to the northern part of the US before they separate. Passengers heading from Chicago to Seattle will share the train with passengers headed to Portland for most of the trip.
- Chicago Union Station, one of the United States’ most historically and architecturally significant stations, is where the train leaves from. Seattle-bound passengers are welcomed at King Street Station, which is in the center of Seattle. Just steps away from Pioneer Square, it’s easy to reach the whole city.
- For a direct Amtrak from Chicago to Seattle, there are no other options: The travelers bypassing the Empire Builder will have to connect to other routes. This adds a large amount of travel time and complexity. Because of this, the Empire Builder is the best option for this journey.
Chicago to Seattle Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
Empire Builder runs on a daily schedule. This means that there are departures from Chicago each day. It is easier to plan than other routes, which run less often.
| Detail | Information |
| Train Name | Empire Builder (Train 7) |
| Departure City | Chicago, IL (Union Station) |
| Arrival City | Seattle, WA (King Street Station) |
| Typical Departure Time | Around 2:15 PM (Chicago) |
| Typical Arrival Time | Around 10:45 AM (Day 3) |
| Frequency | Daily |
| Total Duration | Approximately 46 hours |
Important note on schedules: Amtrak’s schedules vary slightly according to the seasons and can be subject to alteration. You can check Amtrak’s latest arrival and departure times directly from their website or app before purchasing your ticket. The Empire Builder is notorious for its occasional delays due to the freight traffic that uses shared rail lines. You should always plan your trip with flexibility, especially when you are connecting at an arrival station.
As the train leaves Chicago at midday: it means that you can spend the evening of your first day rolling along the plains in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Day two will bring the mountainous terrain of Montana, while the morning brings the open prairies. Finally, day three sees you arriving in Seattle. This is an incredibly well-structured journey, where every day offers a completely different experience.
Chicago to Seattle Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
Chicago to Seattle is about a 46-hour train trip, which makes it two nights and three days of adventure. Many travelers find this to be a plus rather than an inconvenience. It’s not only about getting to your destination – it’s also about experiencing America in between.
The following is a breakdown of how each phase looks:
| Segment | Approximate Duration | Highlights |
| Chicago to Milwaukee | ~1.5 hours | Urban landscapes, Lake Michigan views |
| Milwaukee to Minneapolis-St. Paul | ~5.5 hours | Wisconsin countryside, Mississippi River |
| Minneapolis to Havre, MT | ~10 hours | Northern Plains, North Dakota flatlands |
| Havre to Whitefish, MT | ~3 hours | Glacier National Park region |
| Whitefish to Spokane, WA | ~5 hours | Rocky Mountains, Idaho Panhandle |
| Spokane to Seattle | ~6 hours | Cascade Mountains, Washington forests |
Amtrak’s long-distance trains share tracks with freight railroads, and they are given priority by law on most segments. This can cause delays due to traffic congestion or bad weather. Amtrak trains that travel long distances share track space with freight trains, and the law gives priority to freight trains on some segments.
However, experienced travelers tell us that even an Empire Builder delayed is enjoyable. It’s always interesting, there is someone to chat with in the Lounge Car, and you can look forward to a good meal in the Dining Car.
Seattle King Street Station Guide for Passengers
King Street Station is your arrival point to Seattle: It is one of the best train stations in the Pacific Northwest. King Street Station, located at 303 S Jackson Street within the Pioneer Square area of Seattle, has been an iconic landmark since its opening in 1906.
In 2013, the station’s interior was restored to its Beaux-Arts splendor: Seattle’s iconic clock tower, modeled on the Campanile at Venice’s St. Mark’s Square, is easily visible throughout the downtown area and has grown to be one of its most beloved architectural icons.
What you will find at King Street Station:
| Facility | Availability |
| Waiting Room | Yes, spacious and beautifully restored |
| Ticketing Counter | Yes |
| Baggage Claim | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes (free) |
| Taxi and Rideshare Pickup | Yes, outside the main entrance |
| Bus Connections | Yes, multiple routes nearby |
| Light Rail Access | Yes, International District/Chinatown Station is a short walk |
| Restaurants Nearby | Yes, Pioneer Square has many dining options |
Getting from King Street Station to the rest of Seattle:
This station is located in a convenient location. You can walk to the International District/Chinatown Link Light Rail Station, which connects you with Capitol Hill and downtown Seattle. It also provides access to South Lake Union as well as Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Uber and Lyft are free to use from the station. There is also a taxi service.
Travelers with large luggage will find it easier to get to the ground transport due to the level terrain outside the station. King Street Station is within 15 to 20 minutes of most major Seattle Hotels.
Key Stops Between Chicago and Seattle
It is a great joy to ride the Empire Builder through the many fascinating cities, landscapes, and countries it travels through. Most travelers will plan their multi-city trip around this route. They may stop for a couple of days before continuing to the next Empire Builder.
| Stop | State | Mile Marker (approx.) | Notable Feature |
| Chicago | Illinois | 0 | Starting point, Chicago Union Station |
| Milwaukee | Wisconsin | 85 | Lakefront, breweries, architecture |
| Columbus | Wisconsin | 130 | Small-town charm |
| La Crosse | Wisconsin | 315 | Mississippi River crossing |
| Winona | Minnesota | 355 | Scenic river bluffs |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul | Minnesota | 411 | Twin Cities, urban stop |
| St. Cloud | Minnesota | 481 | Gateway to northern Minnesota |
| Havre | Montana | 1049 | Hi-Line country, agricultural heartland |
| Malta | Montana | 1133 | Remote prairies, wildlife sightings |
| Glasgow | Montana | 1176 | Fort Peck Reservoir country |
| Wolf Point | Montana | 1215 | Missouri River region |
| Williston | North Dakota | 1340 | Oil country, badlands nearby |
| Minot | North Dakota | 1447 | “Magic City,” northern plains hub |
| Whitefish | Montana | 1021* | Gateway to Glacier National Park |
| Sandpoint | Idaho | 1319 | Lake Pend Oreille, mountain scenery |
| Spokane | Washington | 1396 | Largest city in eastern Washington |
| Ephrata | Washington | 1481 | Columbia Basin plateau |
| Wenatchee | Washington | 1546 | Apple capital of Washington |
| Leavenworth | Washington | 1573 | Bavarian-themed town in the Cascades |
| Everett | Washington | 1643 | Puget Sound region |
| Seattle | Washington | 1733 | Final destination |
Note: The Empire Builder travels through Whitefish on its northern Montana routing, passing near Glacier National Park – one of the most visually spectacular segments of the entire journey.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Amtrak Chicago to Seattle ticket prices can be significantly different depending on whether you buy in advance, what booking class you choose, when the trip is, and the current availability.
General Price Ranges (approximate):
| Class | Price Range (One Way) |
| Coach (Unreserved/Reserved) | $89 – $250 |
| Roomette (Sleeper) | $350 – $700+ |
| Bedroom (Sleeper) | $600 – $1,200+ |
| Family Room (Sleeper) | $700 – $1,400+ |
A sleeper fare includes meals from the dining cars, adding significant value. Passengers can buy meals from the cafeteria or even bring their food with them.
Best Ways to Save Money:
- Book Early: Amtrak’s dynamic pricing is the same as that used by airlines. Booking early will save you money. Prices can drop as low as $1.50 per ticket up to 11 months in advance.
- Travel Off-Peak: Avoid major holidays and summer weekends. By traveling on weekdays and during shoulder seasons in spring or fall, you’ll typically find lower prices.
- Use Amtrak Guest Rewards: Amtrak Guest Rewards is a loyalty program that earns points every time you travel. The points can be exchanged for future tickets. The savings for frequent travelers can be substantial.
- Rail Passes: Consider an Amtrak USA Rail Pass if you’re planning to travel on Amtrak multiple times. This pass offers a fixed number of Amtrak rides within a specific time period. It is a great value when you are planning a multi-city itinerary, such as Chicago to Seattle.
- AAA, Senior, and Student Discounts: Amtrak discounts are available for AAA members and seniors over 65, active military, and students. Amtrak offers a 50% discount to children aged between 2-12 when they travel with an adult.
- Multi-City Booking: Book a multi-segment fare if you intend to make stops in multiple cities along your route, like Minneapolis or Whitefish. This is usually cheaper.
Onboard Amenities on the Chicago to Seattle Train
Empire Builder, a long-distance full-service train, offers an onboard journey that is more enjoyable and comfortable than the experience of a regional or commuter train.
Coach class amenities: The Empire Builder’s coach seats are spacious, reclining, and comfortable with plenty of legroom. They offer significantly more room than the economy seats. Each seat is equipped with an electrical outlet and has large windows that are designed to allow for easy sightseeing. Carry-on luggage can be stowed above the overhead storage, while checked bags are stored beneath.
Sleeping Car Amenities: Roomettes are sleeping compartments for up to two people. Sleeping compartments have two bunk beds that are converted from the seats and are present in the compartment throughout the daytime. Passengers are provided with the necessary bedding and towels. Bedrooms have convertible seating and have a private lavatory with a shower. All passengers are provided with dining car meals at no additional cost.
Dining Car: Looking for that late-night meal? Our full-service dining car serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Menus change, but classic American meals are standard – eggs and pancakes in the morning, burgers and sandwiches for lunch, and steak, salmon, or pasta for dinner. All meals in the dining car are complimentary for sleeping car passengers, who are seated with other passengers to foster the communal dining experience that is beloved among many travelers.
Sightseer Lounge Car: Trains 8 and 28 take on the Sightseer Lounge, exclusive to Amtrak, but that features something very specific to Empire Builder – panoramic views! In fact, the views are the best you can get on the entire train, thanks to the wrap-around windows that are near all the ceilings. It’s common to wait to get some seats so you can have the best view of the Rocky Mountains as they drift by you. The lounge is first-come, first-served, and they also sell you some items to snack on.
Café Car: The café car features hot and cold beverages, snacks, and sandwiches and offers reasonably priced microwavable meals. All Coach passengers have access to the café car.
Wi-Fi: The Empire Builder does have Wi-Fi, but service will be spotty in the more remote regions of Montana and Idaho. It is advisable to download any media you wish to enjoy and not rely on anything streamed.
Other Amenities:
- Power outlets at each seat
- Personal reading lights
- Restrooms that are kept clean and maintained
- Accommodations for passengers with disabilities
- Family sleeping cars that are available for families with young children
Chicago to Seattle Train vs. Other Travel Options
What is the Amtrak Empire Builder’s standing in relation to the alternatives with which one can get from Chicago to Seattle?
| Factor | Amtrak Train | Flight | Driving | Bus |
| Travel Time | ~46 hours | ~4-5 hours (+ airport time) | ~29-32 hours | ~50-55 hours |
| Average Cost (budget) | $89-$250 (coach) | $120-$350 | $200-$350 (gas + lodging) | $80-$150 |
| Comfort | High (space, movement) | Low-Medium | Medium (tiring) | Low |
| Scenery | Outstanding | Minimal | Good | Average |
| Carbon Footprint | Low | High | Medium-High | Low-Medium |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Low (airport rules) | High | Low |
| Luggage Freedom | High | Low (fees apply) | High | Medium |
| Sleep Onboard | Yes (sleeper option) | Difficult | No (stops needed) | Uncomfortable |
Flight: Flights are generally faster, but the time difference shortens when accounting for the full travel experience, including getting to the airport (which requires arriving 1 to 2 hours prior), going through security, layovers, and travel to your final destination in Seattle. The biggest trade-off with flying is you miss out on the entire country in between.
Car: Travelers making the journey by car are able to enjoy the flexibility that comes from being on the road for days. Still, it is quite a bit more work and attention paid to expenses like accommodation along the journey.
Bus: The bus is the best option for travelers on a budget, although it is not a very comfortable way to travel, especially for a long distance.
Train travel is the best option for those travelers who realize that the journey is part of the experience, as it is the best way to travel for value and comfort.
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Chicago to Seattle Route
Preparing a little in advance for your trip will make your first time riding the Empire Builder an enjoyable and seamless experience.
- Pack Smart: Be sure to have a travel bag packed with essentials: phone charger, headphones, toiletries, a book, and some other downloaded content (snacks and a travel/pillow blanket if you’re a coach passenger). Prepare for varying temperatures by bringing layers.
- Arrive Early at Chicago Union Station: The Empire Builder is a long train and is bound to have a busy departure. Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (more time if you have checked baggage).
- Claim Your Seat Strategically: Most long-distance trains do not have assigned seats in coach class. Therefore, it’s to your advantage to board early. The left side (the north side) of the train will provide the best views of Montana’s Glacier Park, so be sure to choose a window seat.
- Spend Time in the Sightseer Lounge: Don’t spend the entire trip in your seat! If you’re looking for memorable conversations and amazing views, the lounge car is where you should be!
- Bring Cash or a Card: Although Amtrak only accepts card payments in the dining and café precincts, it is a great idea to have a little cash with you.
- Keep Your Ticket Accessible: The conductors of Amtrak will be checking your tickets many times, so be sure to keep it saved in the Amtrak app, or better still, printed and easily accessible.
- The Schedule of Scenic Highlights: The Amtrak train delivers stunning views traveling through Montana and Idaho during the second, and mostly daytime, leg of the trip. If this part of the trip is the leg you want to be awake for, this is the area to be most alert. The section around Whitefish and Glacier National Park is some of the most amazing scenery on the journey.
- Download the Amtrak App: The app gives alerts on the status and timing of the train, which will help you time your arrivals to the stations better.
- Pack Your Own Snacks: The café car has plenty of options, but it makes it easier and cheaper to bring your favorite snacks on this two-night trip.
- Respect Quiet Hours: Since sleeping cars are smaller and quieter, more significant sacrifices are demanded to keep sound levels down. Using headphones and bringing personal noise-making devices to an acceptable and considerate volume can be very helpful.
What to Do When You Arrive at King Street Station, Seattle
The feeling of satisfaction when you step out of the Empire Builder and into Seattle’s King Street Station, after 46 hours traveling across America, is truly satisfying. It is amazing how much you can explore in a city that opens before you.
Immediate Area – Pioneer Square: King Street Station’s location is in Pioneer Square. This neighborhood has a rich history and is Seattle’s oldest. Seattle is a city of brick-paved streets, Victorian-era architecture, art galleries, as well as some of its best bars, restaurants, and cafes.
Pike Place Market: Seattle’s most famous attraction, Pike Place Market, can be reached by a quick rideshare or bus from the station. The first stop is the Elliott Bay area, home to Seattle’s original Starbucks and flying fish vendors. Fresh produce, locally made crafts, and breathtaking views of Elliott Bay are also available.
Seattle Waterfront: This waterfront is a stunning stretch with restaurants and open space that runs along Puget Sound. Seattle Aquarium, located nearby.
The Space Needle: Seattle wouldn’t be Seattle without a trip to the Space Needle. We suggest taking the trip to the Needle if only for the experience. Opened in 1962 for the World’s Fair, the Space Needle still towers over the Seattle skyline.
Capitol Hill and the Central District: For the best places to eat and drink, as well as Seattle’s top artistic venues, Capitol Hill is a must. You can access this area directly via the Light Rail from the International District station that is next to King Street.
Day Trips From Seattle: You can also use Seattle for exploring the rest of the Pacific Northwest. Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park, as well as the San Juan Islands and the adorable Leavenworth (also a stop on the Empire Builder) are just a day trip away.
Booking Your Chicago to Seattle Amtrak Ticket
There are a variety of convenient ways for reserving your Empire Builder ticket.
- Online via Amtrak.com: This is the easiest/most common way to book. Go to Amtrak.com. Input your departure city (Chicago – CHI) and arrival city (Seattle – SEA), input your travel date, and click search. The website will furnish information on the available fare classes, the prices (if any), and the seat/room availability. You will need a credit or a debit card to complete your booking.
- Amtrak App: The booking process on the mobile version of Amtrak.com is identical to the booking process on the desktop version. The mobile app will also supply your mobile ticket, a view of your train’s real-time location, and your station info.
- By Phone: You can make a reservation over the phone by calling Amtrak’s 1-800-USA-RAIL network. This option is best for people who have questions or have accessibility issues.
- At the Station: For those who prefer to make a reservation in person, Amtrak sells tickets at the Chicago Union Station. However, during peak-season time, this option is not recommended since ticket fare classes are likely to sell out.
Key Booking Tips:
- To get the best sleeper room fares, book as soon as possible.
- Earning points with bookings on Amtrak can be done by creating a Guest Rewards account.
- Refund and cancellation policies vary by fare class. Be sure to check the selected class for the policies before completing the purchase.
- Separate itineraries can be a hassle for a multi-city journey with planned stopovers; book as one itinerary where possible.
Best Time to Travel from Chicago to Seattle by Train
While the Empire Builder operates every day of the year, certain windows of time present opportunities for travelers to have a better experience.
Summer (June – August): Expect a crowded train for this route during the summer months. The glorious summer weather in both Chicago and Seattle is the least of the reasons. Summer also means the wild mountain meadows full of flowers and the green valleys of Montana, plus the white nights of summer mean longer picture days. This perfect time comes with the expense of plane tickets and booked flights. Be prepared to plan ahead at least 2 – 3 months.
Fall (September – October): If beautiful scenery is your goal, then this period is the best time to travel the Empire Builder! With the Wisconsin and Minnesota deciduous trees and the brilliant colors of orange and gold, fall is the best time to go. The crowds are obviously thinner, and the comfortable temperatures are an added plus. The best part is the celebrity prices during this time. First-time riders will not be disappointed by the striking scenery at off-season prices.
Spring (April – May): With nature beginning to flush a bright green, this is shoulder season for travel. Weather can be temperamental, but mountain passes become easier to traverse, and the scenery is worth the risk. This is another great value window.
Winter (November – March): Taking the Empire Builder in the winter is a completely different experience. The plains turn to a tundra and the mountains into a beautiful snowscape. A disadvantage is the delays that this route is certain to cause. If you have a firm schedule, winter is a risky time to travel. However, if you are an adventurous traveler without plans, this route is hard to beat.
| Season | Scenery | Crowd Level | Price | Best For |
| Summer | Excellent | High | Highest | Families, first-timers |
| Fall | Stunning | Medium | Moderate | Budget travelers, scenery lovers |
| Spring | Beautiful | Low-Medium | Lower | Value seekers, nature lovers |
| Winter | Dramatic | Low | Lowest | Adventure travelers, flexibility needed |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there a direct train from Chicago to Seattle?
Yes. The Amtrak Empire Builder (Train 7) makes a daily, no-transfer trip from Chicago Union Station to Seattle King Street Station. This route is the only non-transfer train service connecting these two cities.
Q2. How long is the train ride from Chicago to Seattle?
The expected travel time is around 46 hours. The usual Chicago departure time is early to mid-afternoon. Passengers will usually arrive in Seattle on the morning of the third day. The actual travel time may extend beyond 46 hours due to freight traffic clogging the tracks.
Q3. How much does a train ticket from Chicago to Seattle cost?
Generally, coach tickets will run about $89 to $250 depending on how far from departure you book and the time of year. Roomettes usually start at $350 and can be even more at peak travel time. Meals in the dining car are included with sleeper fares.
Q4. Does the Empire Builder have sleeping options?
Yes, the Empire Builder has Roomettes (two-person compartments with fold-down bunk beds), Bedrooms (larger private rooms with a bathroom and shower), and Family Bedrooms (for families). All accommodations in the sleeping car have complimentary meals included.
Q5. Is food available on the Chicago to Seattle train?
Yes. The Empire Builder has a dining car that serves all three meals. There is a café car that has food and drink available for purchase. Passengers in the sleeping cars receive free meals, while those in the coach car pay for their own meals.
Q6. Can I bring my bicycle on the Amtrak Empire Builder?
Amtrak allows bicycles as checked baggage on various routes including the Empire Builder, pending space availability. The bicycle must be in a bike box or in a bag. Review Amtrak’s policies on bicycles to understand more, including potential costs for using the service, and book your spot as space is limited.
Q7. Does the train go by Glacier National Park?
Yes, the Empire Builder Route passes through Whitefish, MT, which is the primary gateway to Glacier National Park. It also travels along the southern border of the park. There are views of glacier-carved mountains, which are best during the day on the second day of travel.
Q8. What seat is best for views on the Empire Builder?
The Glacier National Park and Montana mountain views are best from the left side of the train, which is the north side. The best views are from the Sightseer Lounge, which is open to all passengers. The Lounge has large, panoramic views.
Q9. Is Wi-Fi provided on the Amtrak from Chicago to Seattle?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided, but it is very spotty, especially through the rougher areas of Montana, North Dakota, and Idaho. These areas have a very limited cellular infrastructure. Make sure to bring entertainment to cover the gaps. The best options are downloaded movies, music, podcasts, etc.
Q10. What is Amtrak’s cancellation and refund policy?
Amtrak’s cancellation and refund policy is fare-specific. Cancellations for flexible and value fares can incur a full or partial refund. Saver fares have a cancellation fee or may be entirely non-refundable. Be sure to check the details pertaining to your fare class when booking. For long-distance travel, especially during the winter months when there is a higher likelihood of delays, travel insurance may be a good option.