Visiting Leavenworth is an experience that will transport you. You can choose the ornate Bavarian village in Leavenworth, Washington, located in the heart of the Cascades, or you can step back into Wild West history in Leavenworth, Kansas. The full scenic experience on your trip to Leavenworth is best accomplished via Amtrak.
Rail travel is thriving in the United States. More people are opting to ride the rails than to drive or fly. This guide will give you everything you need to travel to Leavenworth via Amtrak – routes, prices, best rail travel seasons, and how to get the best deals.
There is no need to stress about train travel if it’s your first time, or even if you’re an experienced traveler. This guide has the information you need.
Why Take a Train to Leavenworth? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel
Before we dive into the details about schedules and routes, let’s tackle the biggest concern: why do you take the train over flying or driving?
1. The most stunning beauty you can’t get by driving
The train ride from Leavenworth, Washington, aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder traverses one of the most stunning pieces of scenery within the Pacific Northwest. The passengers are treated to stunning, spectacular views from the Cascade Mountains, river valleys, forests, and dramatic landscapes that cannot be seen from an automobile along I-90.
2. No Traffic, No Parking Stress
The downtown area of Leavenworth – particularly during major festivals such as Oktoberfest as well as the Christmas Lighting Festival – is extremely congested by car and truck traffic. If you arrive by train, you can avoid the chaos of parking and stroll or take an easy ride from the local area to the hotel.
3. Affordable Compared to Flying
Train tickets from Leavenworth can be significantly less expensive than air tickets, particularly if you reserve them in advance. Amtrak’s savings fares are extremely affordable.
4. Eco-Friendly Travel
Trains emit far less carbon dioxide per mile of travel compared to personal automobiles and planes. If you are concerned about the impact you have on the environment, trains are the eco-friendly alternative.
5. Comfort and Relaxation
In a train, you can stretch out your legs, go to the dining car, do some work at your computer, or simply sit back and watch the world as it passes through the air. There are no seatbelts to wear, there is no turbulence, and there is no 3-ounce rule for liquids.
6. City Center to City Center
In contrast to airports that are far away from the city center, trains are typically situated in the center of major cities, which makes your departure and ending locations much more convenient.
Which Trains Go to Leavenworth? Major Rail Services Explained
Amtrak provides the only real passenger rail service in the U.S. and currently operates the only rail service that connects with Leavenworth.
For Leavenworth, Washington:
The Empire Builder is Amtrak’s flagship long-distance service and connects Chicago and Seattle/Portland with a rail segment through the Cascade Mountains and a stop at Leavenworth (WA) Station. Daily Empire Builder service in both directions has made this route one of the most scenic and talked-about rail segments in the country.
For Leavenworth, Kansas:
Amtrak does not currently service Leavenworth, KS. The nearest station is in Kansas City, MO, which is about a 30-minute drive. In order to get to Leavenworth, KS, one would need to take Amtrak to Kansas City and travel the rest of the distance by car, rideshare, or bus.
| Destination | Amtrak Route | Nearest Station | Direct? |
| Leavenworth, WA | Empire Builder | Leavenworth, WA | Yes |
| Leavenworth, KS | Southwest Chief / Missouri River Runner | Kansas City, MO | Connecting required |
For most of this guide, we focus on Leavenworth, Washington, because it is a top tourism destination with a dedicated train station.
Popular Train Routes to Leavenworth From Major US Cities
We would like to share the most common train routes that travelers take to get to Leavenworth, Washington.
| Departure City | Amtrak Route | Approx. Travel Time | Train Frequency |
| Seattle, WA | Empire Builder (eastbound) | ~3.5 hours | Daily |
| Spokane, WA | Empire Builder (westbound) | ~3 hours | Daily |
| Chicago, IL | Empire Builder (full route) | ~45 hours | Daily |
| Portland, OR | Empire Builder (via Seattle) | ~6-7 hours | Daily |
| Minneapolis, MN | Empire Builder | ~26 hours | Daily |
| Denver, CO | Empire Builder (via Chicago or Spokane) | Multi-day | Connecting |
| Los Angeles, CA | Coast Starlight + Empire Builder | 2+ days | Connecting |
Pro Tip: Seattle is the best option for taking the train to Leavenworth. The great views on the train for the three and a half hour ride make it a great option for a day or weekend trip.
NYC to Leavenworth Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
Traveling cross-country by train from New York City to Leavenworth, Washington, is an exceptional adventure. Here’s what you have to look forward to:
The Route:
There isn’t a train that will get you directly to Leavenworth from New York. The rail route that most travelers take is:
New York Penn Station → Chicago Union Station via Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited (~19-20 hours)
- Chicago Union Station → Leavenworth, WA via Amtrak’s Empire Builder (~44-46 hours)
- Total journey time: ~63-67 hours with a Chicago layover.
| Leg | Route | Duration | Train |
| NYC → Chicago | Lake Shore Limited | ~19-20 hours | Daily |
| Chicago → Leavenworth, WA | Empire Builder | ~44-46 hours | Daily |
| Total | Two trains, one connection | ~63-67 hours | – |
Ticket Tips for the NYC Route:
- Make reservations at least 3-4 weeks in advance to get the best savings on airfare
- Think about a Roomette or Bedroom to rest your legs overnight. Private sleeping accommodations for passengers on Amtrak long-distance trains are accompanied by food and can be worth it when you are traveling for multiple days.
- Utilize Amtrak guest rewards points to save money on the cost of your journey
- The Chicago layover may be as little as 1-2 hours, but making reservations for the following morning’s Empire Builder gives you time to wander around Chicago
Leavenworth Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
If you’re taking your first trip on a train and you’re new to the train, we’d like to welcome you! These are the essential steps for making your trip smooth:
Before You Board:
- Download the Amtrak application – it will show your reservation in real-time, the train tracker, as well as gate details.
- Be at the station 30 minutes earlier, especially near busy hubs, such as Seattle King Street Station
- Take snacks along with the ability to refill your water bottle; the prices for dining in cars could add up
- Take entertainment with you: movies, books, with earbuds and a battery for your portable device
On the Train:
- The overhead racks for luggage are huge and allow you to bring 2 carry-on bags as well as two bags that you have checked for free.
- Quiet Car is available on numerous routes, making it ideal to sleep on or for focused work
- The Lounge/Observation Car provides panoramic views and is the ideal location to view the Cascade scene
- Inform the conductor of the estimated timings of arrival in case the train is late
Arriving in Leavenworth:
- It’s Leavenworth Amtrak station, a tiny and unstaffed stop. It’s just a station stop
- Downtown Leavenworth can be walked from the station, approximately 0.5 miles from the principal Bavarian village.
- Plan your accommodation early, preferably in the month of October (Oktoberfest), as well as the month of December (Christmas Light Festival)
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Leavenworth
Direct Routes:
The sole straight Amtrak train that connects Leavenworth, WA, is the Empire Builder. Passengers who board at any station along the route of the Empire Builder, which includes Seattle, Spokane, Wenatchee, and Everett, don’t have to switch trains.
Connecting Routes:
For the vast majority of US cities located outside of the Pacific Northwest, at least one connection is needed. Below are the most frequent connections:
| Origin Region | Connection City | Second Train |
| East Coast (NYC, Boston) | Chicago, IL | Empire Builder |
| Southeast (Atlanta, Miami) | Chicago, IL | Empire Builder |
| Southwest (Los Angeles, Phoenix) | Portland, OR, or Seattle, WA | Empire Builder |
| Midwest (St. Louis, Minneapolis) | Chicago, IL | Empire Builder |
| Mountain West (Denver, Salt Lake City) | Chicago, IL, or Seattle, WA | Empire Builder |
Chicago Union Station is the most important connection hub for all travelers from the eastern half of the United States. Always plan for at least a 2 hours connection time for delays.
Business or Coach Class on Leavenworth Trains
Multiple classes of service are on the Empire Builder and connecting trains. Here’s a simple comparison:
| Class | Price Range | Seat Type | Meals Included | Best For |
| Coach | $$ (lowest) | Reclining seats, shared space | No | Budget travelers, short trips |
| Business Class | $$$ | Wider seats, more legroom, quieter | No | Comfort seekers on day trains |
| Roomette (Sleeping) | $$$$ | Private room, 2 narrow beds | Yes (all meals) | Overnight or multi-day trips |
| Bedroom (Sleeping) | Larger private room, private restroom | Yes (all meals) | Couples, maximum comfort | |
| Family Bedroom | $$$$ | Large room, sleeps 2 adults + 2 kids | Yes | Families |
For the Seattle-Leavenworth segment (~3.5 hours): The trip is brief and beautiful. The ride is scenic and short, and the coaches are comfortable enough.
For the Chicago-Leavenworth segment (~44 hours): The use of a Roomette is highly advised. In addition, the meals included, along with privacy, meals, and a comfortable bed, make the trip really enjoyable instead of exhausting.
Amtrak Guest Rewards members may upgrade by using points. Sign up to join before you book if you’re in a bind about your lodging.
Leavenworth Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Leavenworth Station
Key Facts:
- It is important to note that the Leavenworth Amtrak station has a flag-stop, which means that the train stops only for passengers who are on board, getting off, or alighting. You must also hold a ticket that shows the station.
- There’s no ticket counter in the station. Buy tickets online or through the app before arriving
- There is a modest waiting area, but there are no bathrooms, food outlets, or checked baggage services
- The Empire Builder stops here once every day in all directions (eastbound towards Spokane/Chicago and westbound towards Seattle)
Typical Train Times at Leavenworth Station:
| Direction | Approximate Arrival | Train |
| Westbound (to Seattle) | Early in the morning (~6:00-7:30 AM) | Empire Builder |
| Eastbound (to Spokane/Chicago) | Evening (~6:00-7:30 PM) | Empire Builder |
Notice: Times change seasonally and may be delayed. Be sure to check the latest schedules at Amtrak.com prior to traveling.
How to get to the Station from the Station to Downtown Leavenworth:
- Walking: 10-15 minutes from the village’s centre (0.5 miles)
- Ridershare Uber, as well as Lyft, are both available in Leavenworth (availability could be limited, and you must book ahead)
- Local taxis: limited availability. Call ahead
- Hotels that shuttle guests to and from the hotel have free pick-up services. Inquire when you make your reservation.
How to Book Train Tickets to Leavenworth: Step-by-Step Guide
Making reservations for Amtrak tickets is easy. This is exactly how you do it:
Step 1: Go to Amtrak.com or Download the Amtrak App
Both apps work well. The app allows you to use it on the go and offers live updates in real time.
Step 2: Enter Your Trip Details
- Select “One Way” or “Round Trip”
- Select your city of departure and “Leavenworth, WA” as the destination.
- Select your travel date(s)
- Indicate the number of passengers.
Step 3: Choose Your Train
Empire Builder will appear in the results. Keep track of the times for departure and arrival, as well as the details of any connections.
Step 4: Select Your Seating Class
Pick Business Class, Coach, or a sleeper car based on your budget and the length of your trip.
Step 5: Enter Passenger Information
Name, contact information, and contact details, as well as discounts (senior, student, military, senior AAA Rail pass, AAA).
Step 6: Pay and Confirm
Amtrak accepts most major credit card brands, PayPal, and Amtrak Points for Guest Rewards. The ticket will be sent to you via email.
Step 7: Add to Your Phone Wallet or Print
A QR or e-ticket is all you require for boarding – there is no need for paper tickets at the majority of stations.
Pro Booking Tips:
- Make a new Amtrak Guest Rewards Account prior to making your reservation to earn points
- Make reservations 14-21 days ahead for the cheapest savings fares
- Visit Amtrak’s Rail Sale events for limited-time discount offers (usually 25-50 percent off)
- Make use of Amtrak’s multi-city option when you’re stopping along your route
Leavenworth Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Amtrak tickets are subject to change. They change depending on the date you reserve your tickets, the time of year, and the availability of seats. These are the general prices:
| Route | Coach (One Way) | Business Class | Roomette (per person) |
| Seattle → Leavenworth, WA | $28-$55 | $45-$80 | N/A (too short) |
| Spokane → Leavenworth, WA | $25-$50 | $40-$75 | N/A (too short) |
| Portland → Leavenworth, WA | $45-$90 | $75-$130 | $130-$200 |
| Chicago → Leavenworth, WA | $99-$185 | $150-$250 | $300-$600 |
| New York → Leavenworth, WA (via Chicago) | $150-$300+ | $250-$450 | $450-$900+ |
How to Save Money on Leavenworth Train Tickets:
- Get Early to Book: Savings rates are the most affordable, and they sell quickly. Book 2- 4 weeks in advance.
- The midweek train schedule is Tuesday and Wednesday; trains are generally more affordable than on weekends.
- Make use of Amtrak Guest Rewards to earn points on every journey and use them to redeem points for free tickets
- AAA Discount: AAA members get 10% off most Amtrak fares
- Senior Discount: Seniors who are older than 65 receive a 10% discount
- Student Advantage: Amtrak partners with Student Advantage for discounted youth travel
- Rail Pass: The USA Rail Pass covers unlimited journeys over a specified time, ideal for travel to multiple cities
- Keep an eye out for sales on rails: Amtrak regularly runs promotional sales, particularly in the fall and spring
Best Time to Visit Leavenworth by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
Leavenworth, Washington, is a place to visit all year round; however, every season provides a distinct experience.
| Season | Highlights | Crowd Level | Ticket Prices | Notes |
| Spring (Mar-May) | Flowers, mild weather, fewer crowds | Low-Medium | Lower | Great for hiking and outdoor dining |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities | High | Higher | Book 4-6 weeks ahead |
| Fall / Oktoberfest (Sep-Oct) | Oktoberfest festivals, fall foliage | Very High | Highest | Book months in advance for October weekends |
| Winter / Christmas (Nov-Dec) | Christmas Lighting Festival, snow, cozy village atmosphere | Very High (weekends) | High | The most magical time – but extremely busy |
Best Times for Budget Travelers: March and April or January and February. This is when the prices drop, and rush minimizes. This time gives the illusion of a winter village after the holidays.
Best Times for Festivals: October for Oktoberfest, which is three weekends of buzzing festivities. The first three weekends of December are for the famous Christmas Lighting Festival.
Train Tip: The Empire Builder train from Leavenworth to Seattle will leave super early in the mornings during festival weekends. If you want to go to the festival and stay the night, book a hotel before they fill up.
Train vs Bus vs Car to Leavenworth: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
Have you not decided how you will get there yet? Directly compare the three main types of travel:
| Factor | Train | Bus (Greyhound/FlixBus) | Car (Drive) |
| Scenic Experience | Excellent – Cascade views | Limited | Good – mountain roads |
| Comfort | High – spacious seats | Medium – standard coach | Varies |
| Cost (from Seattle) | $28-$55 | $20-$40 | $25-$40 (gas + parking) |
| Travel Time (Seattle) | ~3.5 hours | ~3-4 hours | ~2.5 hours |
| Parking Needed | No | No | Yes (limited + paid in peak season) |
| Flexibility | Low (fixed schedules) | Low (fixed schedules) | High |
| Eco-Friendliness | Best | Good | Worst |
| Great for Festival Weekends | Yes (no parking stress) | Yes | No (traffic + parking chaos) |
Verdict: festival weekends, there’s really no contest. The train is the best option, due to no on-site parking capacity and no long lines to leave after the festival ends. The train also provides a stress-free commute to and from the festival. Traveling by car provides the most flexibility, especially with a family, but it is the most stressful. Traveling by bus is the most cost-effective, but definitely the least comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Amtrak’s Empire Builder connects directly to Leavenworth, Washington. How often does this route run?
Amtrak adds the Leavenworth, WA, stop on the Empire Builder once a day in both directions and requires a reservation.
Q2. About how far is the Leavenworth train station from the Bavarian village center?
The village center is about a half mile from the station, around a 10-15 minute walk, or an easy rideshare away.
Q3. What is the estimated train time from Seattle to Leavenworth?
The train ride from Seattle to Leavenworth is around 3 to 3.5 hours.
Q4. Can you take the train to Leavenworth for a day trip from Seattle?
Not really. The schedule is better suited for overnight trips. Evening train to Leavenworth, overnight stay, and take the return train the next morning.
Q5. Is the Empire Builder a train connection from Portland to Leavenworth?
Yes. The Empire Builder connects Portland to Leavenworth in about 6 to 7 hours.
Q6. What is the estimated cost for a train ticket to Leavenworth?
The train ticket to Leavenworth from Seattle in Coach can be as low as $28 one way (booked in advance). Chicago to Leavenworth can be $99 to $185+.
Q7. Is there an option for luggage storage at the Leavenworth train station?
No. The station is unstaffed, and luggage storage is unavailable. Plan to store luggage at a hotel.
Q8. Can you travel with a bicycle on the Empire Builder?
You can check a bike if you box it, but because Leavenworth is an unstaffed flag stop, you should reach out to Amtrak before traveling with a bike.
Q9. Can you book a sleeper car on the Empire Builder?
Yes, and having a Roomette or Bedroom can be a great addition to longer train trips from Chicago or Minneapolis.
Q10. What is the best way to get from the station to my hotel?
Plan to walk (10 to 15 minutes), use Uber or Lyft, or book a hotel shuttle. During hotel festival weekends, book your transportation early.