Traveling from Chicago to Seattle? Avoid flying and take the train through the heartland instead. The Empire Builder route is one of the most scenic of the U.S. long-distance train routes. The line crosses the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains and the Cascades and is near Glacier National Park.

Do you need to book a ticket? Call us at [YOUR PHONE NUMBER]. We help choose the best seat or room. We can also help find the right travel date with the best fare.

Quick Facts: Chicago to Seattle by Train

Detail	Information
Train name	Empire Builder
Departure station	Chicago Union Station (CHI)
Arrival station	King Street Station, Seattle (SEA)
Travel time	About 46 hours (roughly 2 days, 2 nights)
Distance	About 2,200 miles
Frequency	Daily
Seat and room types	Coach seat, Roomette, Bedroom, Family Bedroom, Accessible Bedroom
On board	Dining car, Sightseer Lounge car, Wi-Fi (limited), power outlets

Why Take the Train from Chicago to Seattle?

1. Awesome Views. You can take in a view of the Mississippi River Valley, North Dakota prairies, Montana plains, Glacier National Park, and the Cascade Mountains.

2. More comfortable than Flying. You get more legroom in coach than you would get on a plane, you don’t have to pay baggage fees to check a standard bag, and you don’t have to deal with cramped middle seats or long airport security lines.

3. Your hotel travels with you. You can sleep, eat, and watch the world go by from the comfort of your own hotel room (sleeper car)

4. Chill way to travel. You can get up and walk around, take meals in the dining car, and take photos from the Sightseer Lounge.

5. Green way to travel. Compared to flying, train travel has lower carbon emissions per passenger.

Chicago to Seattle Train Route and Major Stops

The Empire Builder follows the northern route and takes more days to get across the country. Some of the more notable stops are:

• Chicago, Illinois
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
• Fargo, North Dakota
• Minot and Williston, North Dakota
• Havre, Montana
• East Glacier Park and West Glacier, Montana (the gateway to Glacier National Park)
• Whitefish, Montana
• Spokane, Washington (the train splits here, with one section going to Seattle and one to Portland)
• Everett, Washington
• Seattle, Washington (final stop)

Chicago to Seattle Train Ticket Prices

There are a number of factors that influence your fare (ex: when you’re traveling, when you book, type of seat/room). Here are general guidelines.

Accommodation	Best For	What You Get
Coach Seat	Budget travelers, solo travelers	Large reclining seat, extra legroom, footrest, power outlet
Roomette	Solo travelers, couples	Private room with two seats that convert to beds, with meals included
Bedroom	Couples, extra comfort	More space, private toilet and shower in the room, with meals included
Family Bedroom	Families with children	Large room that sleeps two adults and two children

Book early, as rates usually go up as seats sell.

•  Travel during off-peak times to find better rates. Off-peak usually occurs during late fall and winter months.
•  Consider a coach seat for better rates.
•  Check for senior, child, student, veteran and group discounts.

Coach vs. Sleeper: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Coach if:

• You are looking for an inexpensive flight.
• Reclining seats are not an issue for you.
• You want the cheapest flight available.

Choose a Roomette or Bedroom if:

• You need to sleep flat for two nights.
• You need a private room with a lockable door.
• You need meals included in the dining car.
• You want to celebrate a special occasion (i.e., anniversary or honeymoon).

Best Time to Travel from Chicago to Seattle by Train

Season	What to Expect
Summer (June-August)	Best views of Glacier National Park, long daylight, higher fares
Fall (September-October)	Beautiful autumn colors and fewer crowds
Winter (December-February)	Snowy mountain scenery, often lower fares, possible weather delays
Spring (March-May)	Mild weather and moderate fares

The best views of Glacier National Park in daylight tend to draw tourists during the summer and early fall.

What to Pack for Your Train Trip

• Layers and comfortable clothes, as train cars can get chilly
•  A neck pillow (for coach) and a light blanket
•  Phone charger and a power bank
•  Headphones (for a movie/TV show or music)
•  Books and/or downloaded movies
•  Snacks and a refillable water bottle
•  Camera to capture the mountain views
•  Medications and toiletries
•  Photo ID for boarding

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the train take to go from Chicago to Seattle?

 It takes about 2 days because the trip takes about 46 hours.

 Is there a direct train from Chicago to Seattle?

 Yes, the Empire Builder runs from Chicago to Seattle with no changes. The train splits at Spokane, so make sure you are in the right cars for Seattle.

How much does a train ticket from Chicago to Seattle cost?

 Costs depend on the date and what type of seat you want. Coach is the least expensive, and sleeper rooms are more expensive, but the price includes a meal. Call us for the fare for the day you want to travel.

 Is the train from Chicago to Seattle cheaper than flying?

 It really depends on the cost of the flight, and whether you need a hotel for the nights you would be traveling. A coach seat is usually the same price as a flight, and a sleeper room is more, but you are saving the cost of a hotel for two nights.

Are meals included?

Sleeper passengers have access to all meals. Passengers in the coach class can purchase meals in the restaurant car.

Can I sleep on the train?

Coach class seats have recliners and footrests. Sleeper class rooms have real beds.

Is there Wi-Fi on the train?

Wi-Fi is available but may be very limited, especially in more remote areas.

Can I bring luggage?

Yes, Passengers can bring carry-on baggage as well as checked baggage within the limitations. Check baggage limits prior to your trip.

Can I change or cancel my ticket?

Fare rules determine the change and cancellation policy. Call for information prior to purchasing your ticket to understand your options.

Do you offer help for groups, seniors or travelers with disabilities?

Yes, call for information, and we will help accommodate your needs.