For travelers looking to experience the beauty of the northern United States without the stress of driving, few journeys compare to the iconic Amtrak Empire Builder.
Stretching more than 2,200 miles from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, this cross-country rail journey takes approximately 46 hours and delivers a front-row seat to some of the country’s most diverse and breathtaking landscapes.
Unlike road trips that require constant planning, train travel allows passengers to relax, move freely, and fully enjoy the changing scenery. From city skylines to national parks, the Empire Builder transforms the journey itself into the highlight of the trip.
A Journey Through America’s Changing Landscapes
Jerry Huddleston, CC BY 2.0/Wikimedia Commons
Traveling west from Chicago, passengers quickly leave behind the city’s skyline and enter the rolling terrain of the Midwest. The route winds through Wisconsin and Minnesota, including a particularly scenic stretch along the Mississippi River near La Crosse, where river views and forested bluffs create a memorable early highlight.
As the train continues through Minnesota, the landscape shifts to a mix of lakes, dense forests, and small towns, with major stops like St. Paul–Minneapolis. Crossing into North Dakota, the scenery opens into vast plains and wide skies, offering a peaceful contrast to the earlier wooded regions.
The most celebrated portion of the journey begins in Montana, where the train passes through Glacier National Park. This section, often considered the crown jewel of the route, features dramatic mountain views, winding rivers, and dense forests. Stops such as East Glacier Park, Essex, and West Glacier provide access to one of America’s most iconic natural landscapes.
Two Final Destinations: Seattle or Portland
One unique feature of the Empire Builder is its split in Spokane. From here, travelers can choose their final destination.
Passengers heading south continue toward Portland, following the scenic Columbia River through central Washington. Those traveling north reach Seattle, passing charming towns like Leavenworth before arriving in the heart of the city.
This flexibility allows travelers to tailor their journey based on their preferred destination while still enjoying the full scenic experience.
Comfortable Seating and Sleeping Options
The Empire Builder offers a range of seating and sleeping choices to suit different budgets and travel styles. Coach seating provides a comfortable and affordable option, with wide reclining seats, no middle seats, power outlets, tray tables, and Wi-Fi access.
One of the most popular spaces onboard is the observation car, designed with large windows for sightseeing. It’s an ideal spot to take in views, especially when traveling through Glacier National Park.
For those seeking more comfort, first-class accommodations include private sleeping options such as roomettes, bedrooms, and family rooms. These upgrades offer added space, privacy, and amenities like bedding, towels, meals, and dedicated service.
Dining on Board
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Food is an important part of the journey, and passengers have access to both a café and a dining car. The café serves snacks, drinks, and light meals throughout the trip.
First-class passengers can enjoy meals in the dining car, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Dinner typically includes a multi-course meal and one complimentary beverage, while family-friendly menu options are also available.
A Travel Experience, Not Just Transportation
What sets the Empire Builder apart is the experience it offers. With no traffic to manage or strict schedules to follow, passengers are free to walk around, socialize, or simply watch the landscape change outside their window.
Additional conveniences, such as free checked baggage and onboard Wi-Fi, make the journey even more comfortable.
Final Thought
The Amtrak Empire Builder is more than just a way to get from one place to another. It is a scenic adventure across the northern United States, offering a rare chance to slow down and truly see the country. From the shores of the Mississippi River to the peaks of Glacier National Park, this 2,200-mile journey proves that sometimes the best part of travel is the ride itself.
