The Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s key long-distance routes, connecting Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. It runs through the northern United States to Seattle and Portland, passing wide plains, major rivers, and mountain regions along the way.
Route Overview
- Start: Chicago, Illinois
- Ends: Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon (train splits near Spokane)
- Approximate distance: ~2,200+ miles
- Travel time: about 46–47 hours end-to-end
- Service type: Long-distance, overnight
The Empire Builder is widely used by passengers traveling between the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest, as well as those visiting national parks and remote communities along the route.
Major Cities and Stops
Key locations served by the Empire Builder include:
- Chicago, Illinois – Chicago Union Station
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- St. Paul–Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Fargo, North Dakota (region)
- Havre and other Montana communities
- Spokane, Washington – train divides for Seattle and Portland sections
- Seattle, Washington – King Street Station
- Portland, Oregon – Union Station
To explore all Amtrak stations, visit:
Train Stations in the United States & Canada
Who Uses the Empire Builder?
- Travelers going between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest cities
- Passengers visiting northern states such as North Dakota and Montana
- Tourists heading toward national parks and rural regions
- Rail fans and long-distance travelers seeking a cross-country experience
Onboard Classes & Comfort
Coach Class
- Reclining seats with legroom
- Overhead storage for carry-on bags
- Large windows suitable for viewing scenery
Sleeper Accommodations
- Roomettes and Bedrooms for overnight journeys
- Meals usually included for sleeper passengers
- Cabin attendant assistance
For a full explanation of room types and what to expect, see:
Amtrak Sleeper Class Guide
Food & Onboard Services
- Dining car service (primarily for sleeper passengers)
- Café car with snacks and drinks for all passengers
- Restrooms in each coach
- Power outlets in many seats (varies by car)
Wi-Fi is not guaranteed and may be unavailable across long remote stretches.
Scenery Highlights
Even if your focus is practical travel, the Empire Builder route offers significant scenic segments:
- Wide plains of the upper Midwest
- Views near Glacier National Park in Montana
- Mountain and river landscapes in Washington and Oregon
Booking the Empire Builder
You can buy tickets from:
- Amtrak website
- Amtrak mobile app
- Station ticket counters and kiosks
Pricing varies based on season, demand, and how early you book. Sleeper cabins often increase in price as availability becomes limited.
For detailed booking advice and fare information, visit:
Amtrak Ticket Booking Guide
Travel Tips for the Empire Builder
- Book sleeper cabins early, especially during summer and holidays
- Bring snacks and drinks, especially if traveling in Coach
- Download entertainment and work offline – internet access can be limited
- Pack a small overnight bag with essentials separate from larger luggage
More general rail travel advice:
Amtrak Travel Tips
FAQs
Are sleeper cabins required for this route?
No, but they are strongly recommended for comfort on such a long overnight journey.
Are meals included?
Meals are typically included for sleeper-class passengers. Coach passengers can purchase food in the café car.
Does the train always run on time?
Delays can occur due to freight traffic and weather conditions. Plan flexible arrival times for any onward connections.
For more general questions about Amtrak, see:
Amtrak FAQ
Note: The Empire Builder is part of the wider Amtrak network connecting the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest. For an overview of the system, visit the main Amtrak guide:
Amtrak – America’s National Train Service.