Station guide · WA, USA
Spokane Train Station Guide
The Spokane Intermodal Center serves as a crucial junction for rail travel in Washington state, connecting passengers to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest.
- Station
- Spokane
- City
- Spokane, WA
- Code
- SPK
- Routes
- 1
At a glance
- The Spokane Intermodal Center east of downtown
- Here the Empire Builder splits into Seattle and Portland sections westbound and joins eastbound
- Trains call in the middle of the night on the usual schedule
Spokane is a major railway junction in eastern Washington. The station operates out of the Spokane Intermodal Center, located just east of the downtown core. This facility handles both rail and regional bus services. For train passengers, Spokane plays a unique operational role. It is the exact point where westbound trains divide into two separate sections bound for different coastal cities. Conversely, eastbound trains from the coast meet here to combine into a single train heading east. Because of the long distances involved in cross-country travel, trains typically arrive and depart in the middle of the night. Passengers should plan their arrival and onward travel with these late hours in mind.
Trains from Spokane
| Train | Between | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Empire Builder | Chicago to Spokane and Seattle and Portland | Daily in each direction |
Spokane is served by the Empire Builder, an Amtrak route running between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest. As of 2026, this service operates daily in each direction. The total journey takes about 45 to 46 hours end to end. Traveling westbound, the train splits at Spokane. One section continues to Seattle, calling at Ephrata, while the other heads to Portland, calling at Pasco. When traveling eastbound toward Chicago, both sections join together in Spokane before continuing to Sandpoint. Because of the vast distances covered on this route, trains call at Spokane in the middle of the night on the usual schedule. Passengers boarding or alighting here will need to prepare for late departures and arrivals. If you are new to overnight rail travel, reviewing advice for your first time on Amtrak can help you prepare for the journey.
Getting to and from the station
The station is located at the Spokane Intermodal Center, situated just east of downtown Spokane. This central location makes it relatively straightforward to reach by road. Since trains call in the middle of the night on the usual schedule, local public transit options may be limited or unavailable when you arrive or depart. Passengers should arrange a taxi or a rideshare service in advance to ensure a smooth transfer. Always allow extra time to reach the station, especially during winter months when weather conditions in eastern Washington can affect road travel. If you plan to use local transit during daytime hours, check the current schedules on the regional transit website to confirm availability.
Around the station
The Spokane Intermodal Center sits just east of the downtown area. The city center features a variety of hotels, restaurants, and civic buildings. A widely known attraction in the city is Riverfront Park, which features the Spokane Falls. Because trains call in the middle of the night, most nearby businesses and attractions will be closed when you pass through. Passengers waiting for a train should expect limited services in the immediate vicinity during these late hours. It is best to purchase any needed supplies or snacks before heading to the station.
Station tips
- Prepare for late hours since trains usually arrive and depart in the middle of the night.
- Read up on Amtrak and VIA booking tips to secure the best fares for your trip.
- Review the luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA before packing for your journey.
- Arrange your transportation to and from the station well in advance due to the nighttime schedule.
Questions travellers ask
Which trains stop in Spokane?
The station is served by the Amtrak Empire Builder. This train runs daily in each direction as of 2026, traveling between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest. The total journey takes about 45 to 46 hours end to end.
What happens to the train at Spokane?
Spokane is a major junction for the Empire Builder. Westbound trains from Chicago split here, with one section going to Seattle and the other to Portland. Eastbound trains from Seattle and Portland meet in Spokane and join together before continuing toward Chicago.
What time do trains arrive in Spokane?
On the usual schedule, trains call at the Spokane Intermodal Center in the middle of the night. Passengers should plan their local transportation and accommodation accordingly, as public transit and nearby businesses are generally closed at these hours.