Chicago to Seattle by train

Riding the train from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest offers a practical and comfortable way to cross the country without flying. The route covers thousands of miles of varied landscapes, moving from the lakes of Wisconsin through the open plains of North Dakota and over the Rocky Mountains. The train operates every day and provides a relaxing environment for the two night trip. Whether you are traveling for a vacation or simply need to reach Washington state, this service connects major cities and very small towns along the northern tier of the United States.

Your train options

The Empire Builder is the only direct train between Chicago and Seattle. As of 2026, it runs daily in each direction. The trip takes about 45 to 46 hours, meaning you will spend two nights on board. Passengers can choose between standard coach class or upgrade to a private room. Coach features reclining seats and leg rests, which can be a budget friendly option if you do not mind sleeping in coach overnight. For a bed and more privacy, you can book a Superliner Roomette or a larger Superliner Bedroom. Families traveling together might prefer the Family Bedroom, and an Accessible Bedroom is also available. All passengers can use the Sightseer Lounge car to watch the scenery. Those in sleeping cars have meals included in the Dining car, while coach passengers can purchase food on board.

The journey

The train travels through diverse regions during the two day trip. Between Chicago and St. Paul, you will see Wisconsin lakes and the Wisconsin Dells, followed by a long run beside the Mississippi River from La Crosse to Red Wing. Moving further west, the train crosses the open northern plains of North Dakota and the Montana Hi-Line between Minot and Havre, an area defined by wheat country and very small towns. The mountain crossing occurs between East Glacier Park and Whitefish. Here, the train skirts the southern edge of Glacier National Park and traverses Marias Pass over the Continental Divide, which is one of the lowest crossings of the Rockies in the US. Depending on your direction of travel, you will cross the Cascades between Spokane and Seattle by night westbound. This final stretch includes the Cascade Tunnel and the Puget Sound shoreline between Everett and Seattle.

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 and connects easily to the CTA Blue Line Clinton stop and Metra commuter trains. The station is the hub of the Amtrak long distance network and features the 1925 Beaux Arts Great Hall, plus a Metropolitan Lounge for premium passengers. You will arrive at Seattle King Street Station. Opened in 1906, the station had its ornate ceiling restored in 2013. It sits next to Pioneer Square and the Chinatown International District, offering easy access to Link light rail.