City to city
Traveling from Chicago to Minneapolis-St. Paul by Train
You can travel directly between Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul on the Amtrak Borealis train, a daytime journey that takes about 7 to 9 hours.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Borealis | about 7 to 9 hours | Daily in each direction | No | No, direct |
Taking the train from Illinois to Minnesota is a comfortable and scenic way to travel the Midwest. The direct route connects two major urban centers while passing through rural farm country and along major waterways. The service has been operating daily since May 2024 and remains a popular choice for regional travel as of 2026. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the train offers a relaxing alternative to driving or flying. Passengers can enjoy the changing landscapes of Wisconsin and Minnesota right from their seats.
Your train options
The primary option for this route is the Borealis, which runs daily in each direction as of 2026. This is a direct service, meaning no changes are required along the way. The trip takes about 7 to 9 hours and operates entirely during the day, so there is no overnight travel on this trip. Passengers can choose between Coach and Business Class seating. Both classes offer comfortable, reclining seats with ample legroom. If you want a bit more space and a quieter environment, Business Class is a good upgrade. The train also features a Café car where all passengers can purchase snacks, light meals and beverages throughout the journey. Since this is a daytime trip, you do not need to worry about booking sleeper accommodations. For advice on securing the best fares, read our Amtrak and VIA booking tips.
The journey
The journey from Chicago to the Twin Cities offers distinct regional scenery, visible during the daylight hours of this trip. After leaving the urban sprawl of Chicago, the train heads north into Wisconsin. The train makes several stops, including Glenview, Sturtevant and two stops in Milwaukee. The stretch from Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells features classic Wisconsin farms and lakes. Further along the route, the train calls at Columbus, Portage and Tomah before reaching La Crosse. From La Crosse to St. Paul, the scenery shifts dramatically. The tracks follow the Upper Mississippi River closely. You will ride along the Minnesota bank for many miles, passing through the river towns of Winona and Red Wing. This section provides excellent water views before the train pulls into the urban center of St. Paul.
The stations
Your trip begins at Chicago Union Station, located in the West Loop just west of the Chicago River. It is a short walk or bus ride from the Loop. The station opened in 1925 and features the Great Hall, a classic Beaux Arts waiting room. It is the hub of Amtrak's long distance network, with connections to Metra commuter trains, buses and the CTA Blue Line Clinton stop. Premium passengers can access the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge. The journey ends at the restored Saint Paul Union Depot in downtown St. Paul. From Minneapolis-St. Paul, you can take the Metro Green Line light rail directly to downtown Minneapolis.
Tips
- Book your tickets early to secure the best prices in Coach or Business Class.
- Visit the Café car early in the trip if you want a wider selection of snacks.
- Take advantage of the Metro Green Line for easy transit between St. Paul and Minneapolis.
- Read our guide for your first time on Amtrak to understand the boarding process.
Questions travellers ask
Is there a direct train from Chicago to Minneapolis-St. Paul?
Yes, the Amtrak Borealis provides a direct train service between Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul. You do not need to change trains, and the journey takes about 7 to 9 hours.
Can I sleep on the train from Chicago to Minneapolis-St. Paul?
The Borealis operates entirely during the day, so there is no overnight travel on this specific trip. You will have a standard reclining seat in either Coach or Business Class for the daytime journey.