How to Buy Amtrak Train Tickets from Chicago to Minneapolis?
Buying Amtrak train tickets from Chicago to Minneapolis is simple and can be done through multiple convenient channels. The easiest way is to visit the official Amtrak website (amtrak.com). Enter Chicago Union Station as your departure point and Minneapolis-St. Paul Station as your destination, select your travel date, and browse available trains. You can filter results by price, departure time, and train type before completing your purchase with a credit or debit card.
You can also use the Amtrak mobile app, available on both iOS and Android. The app allows you to search, book, manage, and download your tickets digitally – no printing required. Your e-ticket or QR code is displayed directly on your phone for easy scanning at the station.
Another option is to visit the Amtrak ticket counter at Chicago Union Station or call Amtrak’s customer service at 1-800-USA-RAIL. However, booking online or through the app is strongly recommended as it provides access to web-exclusive deals and saver fares that are not always available at the counter.
Tips to Get Cheap Amtrak Train Tickets from Chicago to Minneapolis
Getting affordable Amtrak tickets on the Chicago-to-Minneapolis route requires a little planning. Here are the most effective tips to help you save money:
- Book Early: Amtrak releases tickets months in advance, and the cheapest “Saver” fares sell out fast. Booking 6-8 weeks ahead can save you significantly on this route.
- Travel Off-Peak: Avoid Friday evenings, Sunday afternoons, and holiday weekends. Midweek travel – especially Tuesday and Wednesday – tends to be much cheaper.
- Use Amtrak Guest Rewards: Sign up for Amtrak’s free loyalty program. You earn points on every journey that can be redeemed for future travel at no extra cost.
- Look for Rail Sale Promotions: Amtrak regularly runs flash sales and seasonal promotions. Follow Amtrak on social media or sign up for email alerts to catch deals before they sell out.
- Be Flexible with Dates: Use Amtrak’s calendar view to compare prices across different days and choose the most affordable departure.
- Choose Coach over Business Class: The Empire Builder offers both Coach and Business Class seating. Coach is significantly cheaper and perfectly comfortable for this 8-hour journey.
- Travel During Winter: January and February are the slowest travel months on this route, and fares tend to drop noticeably during this period.
How to Book Round-Trip Amtrak Train Tickets from Chicago to Minneapolis
Booking a round-trip Amtrak ticket from Chicago to Minneapolis is straightforward and often more economical than purchasing two separate one-way tickets. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:
- Go to amtrak.com or open the Amtrak mobile app.
- Select “Round Trip” at the top of the search bar instead of “One Way.”
- Enter Chicago Union Station as your departure and Minneapolis-St. Paul Station is your arrival.
- Choose your outbound and return travel dates.
- Select the number of passengers and any applicable discounts (senior, student, military, AAA, etc.).
- Browse available trains for both legs of your journey and choose your preferred departure times.
- Select your seat class – Coach or Business Class.
- Complete payment and receive your e-ticket confirmation by email.
Round-trip bookings also make it easier to manage changes or cancellations, as both legs are handled under one reservation number. If you are a frequent traveler, logging into your Amtrak Guest Rewards account before booking ensures your points are automatically credited for both legs.
| Booking Type | Ease of Management | Cost Efficiency | Flexibility |
| Round Trip (single booking) | High | Better value | Easy to modify |
| Two One-Way Tickets | Medium | Slightly higher cost | Independent changes |
| Guest Rewards Booking | High | Points redeemable | Standard flexibility |
Amtrak Train Ticket Price from Chicago to Minneapolis – Full Cost Guide
Ticket prices from Chicago to Minneapolis vary based on class of service, how early you book, and the day of travel. The primary Amtrak service on this route is the Empire Builder, which operates daily between Chicago and Seattle/Portland, stopping at Minneapolis-St. Paul is on the way.
Here is a general price breakdown:
| Class | Approximate Price Range | Meals Included? |
| Coach | $39 – $120 | No |
| Business Class | $80 – $180 | No |
| Roomette (Sleeper) | $150 – $350 | Yes |
| Bedroom (Sleeper) | $300 – $600+ | Yes |
Key Price Factors:
- Saver Fares are the cheapest but non-refundable and sell out quickly.
- Value Fares offer moderate flexibility at a mid-range price point.
- Flexible Fares are the most expensive but fully refundable and changeable.
- Peak travel periods such as summer, Thanksgiving, and Christmas drive prices up significantly.
- Children aged 2-12 typically receive a 50% discount when traveling with an adult. Seniors (65+), active military, students, and AAA members can receive 10-15% off eligible fares.
Always check the Amtrak discount and deals page before purchasing to ensure you are getting the best available rate for your travel date.
How Many Amtrak Trains Run Daily from Chicago to Minneapolis?
The Chicago to Minneapolis corridor is served by Amtrak’s iconic Empire Builder train – one of the most celebrated long-distance routes in the United States. Unlike busy short-corridor routes, this is a long-distance service with a set daily frequency.
Daily Service:
- The Empire Builder operates once per day in each direction between Chicago Union Station and Minneapolis-St. Paul Station.
- The train departs Chicago Union Station daily, typically around 2:15 PM (CST), and arrives in Minneapolis-St. Paul Station approximately 8 hours later, around 10:00 PM to 10:30 PM (CST).
- In the return direction, the train departs Minneapolis-St. Paul arrives in the early morning and returns to Chicago by mid-afternoon.
Why Only One Train Daily?
The Empire Builder is a long-distance train that continues beyond Minneapolis all the way to Seattle and Portland on the West Coast. Amtrak operates it as a single daily service rather than multiple runs, which is standard for transcontinental routes of this scale.
Journey Time: The trip from Chicago to Minneapolis covers approximately 410 miles and takes around 8 to 8.5 hours under normal conditions. Delays due to freight train traffic or weather can occasionally extend this.
| Train | Daily Departures | Departure Time (Chicago) | Arrival (Minneapolis) | Journey Time |
| Empire Builder | 1 per day | ~2:15 PM CST | ~10:00-10:30 PM CST | ~8-8.5 hours |
| Return (Minneapolis→Chicago) | 1 per day | ~7:55 AM CST | ~3:45 PM CST | ~8-8.5 hours |
Always verify the latest schedule on amtrak.com before traveling, as timings can shift seasonally or due to track maintenance along the route.
First and Last Amtrak Train Timings from Chicago to Minneapolis
Knowing the exact train times is essential for planning your Chicago-to-Minneapolis trip effectively. Since the Empire Builder runs once daily in each direction, understanding the departure and arrival schedule helps you plan your entire day around it.
Departure from Chicago – Empire Builder: The Empire Builder departs Chicago Union Station once daily, typically around 2:15 PM (CST). This afternoon departure is ideal for travelers who want to spend the morning in Chicago before boarding and arrive in Minneapolis by late evening.
Arrival in Minneapolis: The train arrives at Minneapolis-St. Paul Station approximately 8 to 8.5 hours later, generally around 10:00 PM to 10:30 PM (CST). This evening arrival gives travelers time to check into their hotel and rest comfortably before starting their plans in Minneapolis the next morning.
Return Train – Minneapolis to Chicago: The Empire Builder departs Minneapolis-St. Paul Station once daily in the return direction, typically around 7:55 AM (CST), arriving back at Chicago Union Station between 3:45 PM and 4:00 PM (CST). This morning departure is convenient for travelers who want to return to Chicago with the afternoon still ahead of them.
Important Timing Tips:
- Arrive at Chicago Union Station at least 45-60 minutes before departure
- Minneapolis-St. Paul Station is located at 730 Transfer Road, St. Paul, MN and is accessible by taxi, rideshare, and local bus
- Platform assignments are announced closer to departure – stay near the departure board
- On select days, minor schedule adjustments may occur due to freight traffic – always confirm on amtrak.com before traveling
- Sleeping car passengers enjoy priority boarding, so arrive a few minutes earlier than Coach passengers
| Direction | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Journey Duration |
| Chicago → Minneapolis | ~2:15 PM (CST) | ~10:00-10:30 PM (CST) | ~8-8.5 hours |
| Minneapolis → Chicago | ~7:55 AM (CST) | ~3:45-4:00 PM (CST) | ~8-8.5 hours |
| Days of Operation | Daily | Daily | Year-round |
Amtrak Peak vs Off-Peak Train Schedule: Chicago to Minneapolis
Understanding peak and off-peak travel periods on the Chicago-to-Minneapolis route helps you save money and enjoy a more comfortable journey. Since the Empire Builder runs just once daily, “peak” refers primarily to seasonal demand and high-travel periods rather than rush-hour time slots.
Peak Travel Periods:
- Summer (June-August): The busiest season on this route. Families, tourists, and leisure travelers fill the train quickly, especially during July and August when outdoor attractions in Minnesota are at their peak popularity.
- Thanksgiving Week: One of the busiest travel periods of the year. Trains sell out days or even weeks in advance, and fares are at their highest.
- Christmas and New Year: Holiday demand drives prices up significantly. Sleeper accommodations book out extremely fast during this window.
- Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekends: Long weekends see a noticeable spike in bookings on this leisure-friendly route.
Off-Peak Travel Periods:
- January and February: The quietest and most affordable months. Post-holiday demand drops sharply, and both Coach and Business Class fares hit their lowest points of the year.
- Early March and November (non-holiday): Shoulder season periods with moderate fares and less crowded trains.
- Midweek Departures (Tue, Wed, Thu): Even on a once-daily train, midweek travelers tend to find better seat availability and occasionally lower fares compared to weekend departures.
Benefits of Off-Peak Travel:
- Fares can be 20-40% cheaper than peak season prices
- More seat availability in both Coach and Business Class
- Quieter, more relaxed journey with more space to stretch out
- Better chance of securing last-minute tickets without planning
| Period | Demand Level | Price Impact | Availability |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Very High | +25-40% | Book 6-8 weeks early |
| Thanksgiving Week | Extremely High | +40-60% | Book 2-3 months early |
| Christmas/New Year | Extremely High | +40-60% | Book 2-3 months early |
| Memorial/Labor Day | High | +20-30% | Book 3-4 weeks early |
| Jan-Feb (Off-Peak) | Low | -20-40% | Last-minute possible |
| Tue/Wed/Thu Travel | Low-Medium | Standard-Lower | Flexible booking |
How to Check Live Amtrak Train Status & Delays for Chicago to Minneapolis
Long-distance trains like the Empire Builder are more prone to delays than short-corridor services. The train shares tracks with freight railroads across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, which can cause unpredictable schedule changes. Knowing how to track your train in real time is essential for a smooth journey.
Ways to Check Live Amtrak Train Status:
- Amtrak Website: Visit amtrak.com and click “Train Status” in the top navigation. Enter your train number – Train #7 (Chicago to Seattle/Portland, stopping at Minneapolis) or Train #8 (return direction) – to see real-time updates including current location, estimated arrival, and any announced delays.
- Amtrak Mobile App: The app sends push notifications directly to your phone for your specific train. Once you book a ticket, enable alerts to receive automatic updates on delays, platform changes, or cancellations.
- Amtrak Train Tracker: A live map-based tool available on both the website and app that shows your train’s real-time position along the entire Chicago to Minneapolis route. Updated continuously throughout the journey.
- Station Departure Boards: At Chicago Union Station and Minneapolis-St. Paul Station, digital departure boards display live train status, track numbers, and delay information. Always check these boards upon arriving at the station.
- Third-Party Apps: Apps like Wanderu, Rome2rio, and Railninja also aggregate Amtrak schedule and delay data and can be useful for quick status checks without opening the Amtrak app directly.
- Amtrak Customer Service: Call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) for live assistance. Representatives can provide current train status and rebooking options if significant delays occur.
Pro Tips:
- The Empire Builder frequently shares tracks with BNSF freight trains, which is the most common cause of delays on this route
- Winter weather between November and March – particularly heavy snowfall in Wisconsin and Minnesota – can cause significant delays
- If your train is delayed by more than 2 hours, Amtrak may offer compensation or rebooking options – check their delay policy on the website
Best Amtrak Trains for Chicago to Minneapolis – Empire Builder Classes Explained
When traveling from Chicago to Minneapolis on Amtrak, all passengers travel on the same Empire Builder train. However, your experience varies significantly depending on the class of service you choose. Here is a detailed breakdown to help you pick the right option.
Coach Class:
- Wide, comfortable reclining seats with generous legroom – more spacious than airline economy
- Overhead storage for carry-on luggage
- Access to the Café Car for snacks and drinks (purchased separately)
- Free Wi-Fi and power outlets at most seats
- Cost: $39-$120 depending on fare type and season
- Best for: Budget travelers, short-trip passengers, and solo travelers comfortable with an 8-hour seat journey
Business Class:
- Wider seats with extra legroom and more recline than Coach
- Quieter, less crowded car environment
- Access to the Café Car and at-seat service on select departures
- Cost: $80-$180 depending on fare type and season
- Best for: Travelers seeking more comfort without paying full Sleeper prices
Roomette (Sleeper Class):
- Private room with two comfortable seats that convert into fold-down beds for overnight or extended travel
- All meals included in the full-service Dining Car (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Dedicated sleeping car attendant service throughout the journey
- Cost: $150-$350 depending on season and booking timing
- Best for: Travelers who want privacy, comfort, and included meals on this 8-hour journey
| Class | Price Range | Meals Included? | Privacy | Best For |
| Coach | $39-$120 | No | Low | Budget travelers |
| Business Class | $80-$180 | No | Medium | Comfort seekers |
| Roomette (Sleeper) | $150-$350 | Yes | High | Premium travelers |
| Bedroom (Sleeper) | $300-$600+ | Yes | Full privacy | Families/couples |
Verdict: For an 8-hour daytime journey, Coach Class is perfectly comfortable and the most popular choice. Business Class is worth the modest upgrade if you prefer a quieter environment. The Roomette makes the most sense if you are traveling overnight or simply want a premium experience with meals included.
Amtrak Train Routes from Chicago to Minneapolis: Empire Builder Explained
The Chicago-to-Minneapolis Amtrak journey runs along one of America’s most scenic and historic rail corridors. The Empire Builder follows a route through the upper Midwest that has been in continuous operation since 1929, making it one of Amtrak’s most storied long-distance services.
Route Overview: The Empire Builder departs Chicago Union Station and travels northwest through Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota before reaching Minneapolis-St. Paul. Beyond Minneapolis, the train continues west all the way to Seattle and Portland on the Pacific Coast.
Key Stops Between Chicago and Minneapolis:
- Chicago Union Station (departure)
- Milwaukee, WI
- Columbus, WI
- Portage, WI
- Wisconsin Dells, WI
- Tomah, WI
- La Crosse, WI
- Winona, MN
- Red Wing, MN
- St. Paul-Minneapolis Station (arrival)
Route Distance and Scenery: The rail distance from Chicago to Minneapolis is approximately 410 miles. The journey passes through the rolling farmlands of Illinois and Wisconsin, crosses the scenic Mississippi River near La Crosse, and follows the stunning Mississippi River bluffs through southeastern Minnesota, offering some of the most beautiful rail scenery in the Midwest, especially during the fall foliage season.
Infrastructure: The Empire Builder runs on tracks owned primarily by BNSF Railway, which also carries heavy freight traffic. This shared usage is the primary reason delays can occur, as freight trains often have track priority. Amtrak has been working with BNSF to improve on-time performance on this corridor.
| Segment | Highlights | Approx. Distance |
| Chicago → Milwaukee | Urban to suburban, Lake Michigan views | ~90 miles |
| Milwaukee → La Crosse | Wisconsin farmlands, rolling hills | ~190 miles |
| La Crosse → Minneapolis | Mississippi River bluffs, Minnesota valleys | ~130 miles |
Amtrak Train vs Bus, Flight & Car from Chicago to Minneapolis – Which Is Best?
When traveling from Chicago to Minneapolis, you have four main transportation options: Amtrak train, bus, flight, and car. Each has its own advantages depending on your priorities – speed, cost, comfort, and convenience.
Amtrak Train: The Empire Builder is a comfortable and stress-free option for this journey. You depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive directly at Minneapolis-St. Paul Station with no security lines, no baggage fees for standard luggage, and no traffic stress. Travel time is approximately 8 to 8.5 hours, and the scenic route through Wisconsin and along the Mississippi River makes the journey itself an enjoyable experience. Prices range from $39 to $350+ depending on class and booking timing.
Bus: Companies like Greyhound, FlixBus, and Jefferson Lines offer the cheapest fares on this route, sometimes as low as $20 to $50 one-way. However, the journey takes significantly longer – typically 9 to 11 hours depending on traffic and stops – and comfort levels are considerably lower. Long-distance bus travel at this scale can be exhausting with limited legroom and multiple stops along the way.
Flight: Flying from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW) to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is about 1.5 hours by air. However, when you factor in airport check-in time, security screening, potential delays, baggage claim, and travel from the airport to downtown Minneapolis, total travel time often reaches 4 to 5 hours. Flight prices vary widely – budget fares start around $60 but can exceed $250 last minute.
Car: Driving from Chicago to Minneapolis covers approximately 410 miles via I-90 W and I-94 W. Under ideal conditions, the drive takes about 6 to 7 hours. However, traffic around Milwaukee and the Twin Cities metro area can extend this to 8 hours or more during peak periods. Add in fuel costs, tolls, and parking in Minneapolis – which can run $20 to $40 per day – and driving becomes both tiring and moderately expensive for a solo traveler.
| Mode | Travel Time | Approx. Cost | Comfort | City Center Arrival |
| Amtrak Train | 8-8.5 hours | $39-$350+ | High | Yes |
| Bus | 9-11 hours | $20-$50 | Low | Near Center |
| Flight | 4-5 hours total | $60-$250+ | Medium | No (Airport) |
| Car | 6-8+ hours | $80-$150+ | Medium | No (Parking needed) |
Overall Verdict: For Chicago to Minneapolis, flying wins on pure speed. However, Amtrak wins on overall comfort, city-center arrival, and value – especially when you factor in the hassle-free boarding and scenic route. The bus suits only extreme budget travelers. Driving is a reasonable option for groups or families splitting fuel costs, but solo travelers are better served by the train or a budget flight.
Amtrak Pet Policy for Chicago to Minneapolis Train Travel
Traveling with your pet on Amtrak from Chicago to Minneapolis is possible, but specific rules and restrictions apply to ensure a comfortable journey for all passengers on board the Empire Builder.
Pets Allowed on Amtrak: Amtrak permits small cats and dogs on most long-distance trains including the Empire Builder. Pets must weigh 20 pounds or less, including the weight of the carrier.
Pet Ticket Cost: A $26 pet fee per pet, per trip is charged in addition to your regular ticket. This fee is non-refundable once the journey begins. You can add a pet to your reservation online at amtrak.com, through the Amtrak app, or by calling customer service at 1-800-USA-RAIL.
Carrier Requirements:
- Your pet must remain in an approved, ventilated pet carrier at all times during the journey
- The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you (maximum dimensions: 19″ L x 14″ W x 10.5″ H)
- Only one pet per carrier is allowed
- Pets are not permitted in the dining car or café car at any time during the journey
Important Notes for This Route:
- The Chicago to Minneapolis journey takes approximately 8 hours – ensure your pet is comfortable traveling for this duration inside a carrier
- Sleeper car passengers may have slightly more space to manage their pet carrier, but the same carrier rules apply
- Service animals are always permitted free of charge with proper documentation and are not subject to the standard pet policy restrictions
| Detail | Policy |
| Allowed Pet Types | Small cats and dogs only |
| Maximum Weight | 20 lbs (including carrier) |
| Pet Fee | $26 per pet, per trip |
| Carrier Required | Yes, at all times |
| Dining/Café Car Access | Not permitted |
| Service Animals | Always allowed, free of charge |
| Booking Method | Online, app, or phone |
Amtrak Train Ticket Cancellation & Refund Policy for Chicago to Minneapolis
Understanding Amtrak’s cancellation and refund policy before booking your Chicago to Minneapolis ticket can save you money and stress if your travel plans change unexpectedly.
Fare Types and Refund Rules:
- Saver Fare: Non-refundable and non-changeable. If you cancel, you forfeit the entire ticket value. This is the cheapest fare but carries the highest risk if plans change.
- Value Fare: Partially refundable. Cancellations made before departure may receive a partial refund or Amtrak travel credit, minus a cancellation fee.
- Flexible Fare: Fully refundable with no cancellation fee if cancelled before departure. Changes can also be made free of charge at any time before travel.
How to Cancel Your Ticket:
- Log into your Amtrak account at amtrak.com
- Go to “My Trips” and select the reservation you wish to cancel
- Click “Cancel Trip” and follow the on-screen prompts
- Refunds are processed back to the original payment method within 7-14 business days
Key Cancellation Tips:
- Always cancel before the train departs – no-shows receive no refund regardless of fare type
- If Amtrak cancels or significantly delays your train, you are entitled to a full refund even on non-refundable Saver fares
- Travel insurance is recommended for bookings made during winter months when weather-related cancellations are more likely on this route
- Sleeper car cancellations follow the same fare rules but the higher ticket value makes travel insurance even more worthwhile
Last Minute Amtrak Train Tickets from Chicago to Minneapolis – Best Deals
Finding last-minute Amtrak deals on the Chicago to Minneapolis route is possible with the right approach. Since the Empire Builder runs once daily, seat availability near departure time depends heavily on the season and day of the week.
When Last-Minute Deals Happen: Amtrak occasionally reduces prices on unsold Coach seats in the final 24 to 72 hours before departure, particularly during off-peak periods when demand is low. If the Empire Builder is not fully booked, fares may dip lower closer to the travel date.
Best Strategies for Last-Minute Booking:
- Check amtrak.com directly: Prices update in real time. Refresh the search on your travel date regularly to spot any last-minute fare drops on available seats.
- Be flexible on travel dates: If your preferred date shows no deals, check one or two days later – availability and pricing can vary significantly from day to day on a once-daily service.
- Target Coach Class: Last-minute Sleeper availability is extremely rare on the Empire Builder. Coach seats are far more likely to be available at reduced last-minute prices.
- Sign up for Rail Sale alerts: Amtrak’s flash sales occasionally include long-distance routes in the Midwest. These are announced via email newsletter and Amtrak’s social media channels.
- Use the Amtrak app: It sometimes surfaces promotional fares that aren’t immediately visible on the desktop website.
What to Avoid:
- Never rely on last-minute deals during summer, Thanksgiving, or Christmas – the Empire Builder sells out completely during these periods, often weeks in advance
- Avoid assuming last-minute always means cheaper – on high-demand departures, remaining seats may actually be priced at peak Flexible fare levels
Amtrak Baggage Policy for Chicago to Minneapolis Train Travelers
Amtrak has a generous and straightforward baggage policy compared to airlines, making it a convenient option for travelers carrying luggage on the Chicago to Minneapolis route.
Carry-On Baggage (Free): Every Amtrak passenger is allowed to bring 2 carry-on bags onboard the train at no charge. Each bag must not exceed 50 lbs in weight and 28″ x 22″ x 14″ in size. Bags are stored in overhead racks or in designated luggage areas at the ends of each car.
Personal Items (Free): In addition to carry-on bags, passengers may bring 2 personal items, such as a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack, at no charge.
Checked Baggage: On the Empire Builder route, Amtrak offers checked baggage service at staffed stations including Chicago Union Station and Minneapolis-St. Paul Station. Passengers can check up to 3 bags, each up to 50 lbs, for a fee of $20 per bag. Oversized or overweight bags may incur additional fees at check-in.
Prohibited Items:
- Hazardous materials, flammable liquids, and explosives are strictly prohibited
- Firearms must be declared and follow strict packaging and documentation requirements
- Pets must be in approved carriers as per the Amtrak pet policy
Baggage Tips for This Route:
- Label all bags clearly with your name and contact information before arriving at the station
- Use the checked baggage service if you are carrying more than you can comfortably manage during an 8-hour journey
- Arrive at Chicago Union Station at least 45 minutes before departure – the baggage check counter closes before boarding begins
| Baggage Type | Allowance | Weight Limit | Fee |
| Carry-On Bags | 2 bags | 50 lbs each | Free |
| Personal Items | 2 items | Reasonable size | Free |
| Checked Bags | Up to 3 bags | 50 lbs each | $20 per bag |
| Oversized/Overweight | Case by case | Over 50 lbs | Additional fee |
| Prohibited Items | Not allowed | N/A | N/A |
Best Time to Travel by Amtrak Train from Chicago to Minneapolis
Choosing the right time to travel from Chicago to Minneapolis by Amtrak can significantly affect costs, comfort, and the overall experience. Since the Empire Builder runs once daily, timing your trip by season and day of the week is especially important on this route.
Best Months to Travel:
- September and October: The single best window to travel this route. The Mississippi River bluffs through Wisconsin and southeastern Minnesota are absolutely stunning during fall foliage season. Demand is moderate, prices are reasonable, and the scenery from the train window is at its most spectacular.
- January and February: The cheapest months to travel. Post-holiday demand drops sharply and Coach fares hit their lowest points of the year. Ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind cold Midwest winters upon arrival.
- April and May: Spring is an excellent travel window – pleasant weather, lower crowds than summer, and good fare availability. A great choice for leisure travelers and first-time visitors to Minneapolis.
Months to Avoid:
- June through August: Peak summer demand pushes fares to their highest levels. Families, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts fill the train quickly, and seats book out weeks in advance.
- Thanksgiving and Christmas Weeks: The Empire Builder sells out completely during these periods – sometimes months ahead. If you must travel during holidays, book as early as humanly possible.
Best Days of the Week:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday offer the best combination of lower fares and less crowded trains
- Friday and Sunday are the busiest and most expensive travel days on this route
- Saturday mornings can be a reasonable middle ground with decent seat availability
5 FAQs – Amtrak Train from Chicago to Minneapolis
Q1. How long does the Amtrak train take from Chicago to Minneapolis?
The Empire Builder takes approximately 8 to 8.5 hours to travel from Chicago Union Station to Minneapolis-St. Paul Station, covering around 410 miles. Delays due to freight traffic or winter weather can occasionally extend this. Always confirm current timings on amtrak.com before traveling.
Q2. How much does an Amtrak ticket from Chicago to Minneapolis cost?
Coach Class fares start at around $39 and go up to $120, while Business Class fares range from $80 to $180. Roomette Sleeper fares range from $150 to $350 and include all meals. Booking early and traveling midweek gives you the best rates.
Q3. Does the Amtrak Empire Builder have Wi-Fi and power outlets?
Yes. The Empire Builder offers free Wi-Fi and power outlets in both Coach and Sleeper cars. However, Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent in rural stretches of Wisconsin and Minnesota. Downloading content in advance is recommended for a reliable entertainment experience throughout the journey.
Q4. Can I bring checked baggage on the Chicago-Minneapolis Amtrak train?
Yes. Passengers can check up to 3 bags at $20 per bag at staffed stations. Additionally, 2 carry-on bags and 2 personal items are allowed onboard free of charge. Arrive at least 45 minutes early to check bags before the counter closes.
Q5. Is the Empire Builder a good option for a day trip from Chicago to Minneapolis?
Yes, the Empire Builder works well as a one-way or overnight option, but not as a same-day round trip since it runs once daily in each direction. Departing Chicago at ~2:15 PM and arriving in Minneapolis at ~10:30 PM, it is best suited for multi-day trips or one-way travel. For a day trip, flying is the more practical choice.