Introduction to the Amtrak Empire Builder Train
Empire Builder is an intercity rail service offered by Amtrak. It first started service in 1929. The Empire Builder is responsible for taking about 303,000 passengers per year to their final destinations.
The Empire Builder operates along the Midwestern & Northwestern United States between Chicago, Illinois, and Seattle, Washington or Portland, Oregon.
What to Expect on Amtrak Empire Builder?
The Empire Builder runs a total of 2206 miles between its starting point, Chicago, Illinois, and its point of termination, Seattle, Washington, or Portland, Oregon.
This Intercity Rail travels at an average speed of 50 miles per hour. The overall trip from start to finish takes about 46 hours. The Empire Builder runs trips daily and 7 trips per week.
Accommodations provided by the Empire Builder
Empire Builder offers seating for 352 passengers.
This train also has a roomette, bedroom, bedroom suite, accessible bedroom, and family bedroom sleeper car due to its long trip duration.
The Empire Builder provides food options in the dining car & cafe car.
What are the Major Stops on the Empire Builder?
The Empire Builder starts in Chicago, Illinois, and terminates in Seattle, Washington, or Portland, Oregon. In between, Empire Builder makes the following stop at these major locations.
- Chicago, Illinois – Chicago Union Station. This is where the Empire Builder service begins.
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- St.Paul, Minnesota
- St.Cloud, Minnesota
- Fargo, North Dakota
- Whitefish, Montana
- Sandpoint, Idaho
- Spokane, Washington
- Everett, Washington
- Seattle, Washington – King Street Station. This is where the Empire Builder service ends.
How Much Does it Cost to Ride on the Empire Builder?
A normal fare onboard the Empire Builder will cost you between $150.00 and $1,074.00, depending on which type of seat you decide to purchase.
