Snow Train to Seattle - 5 Day Tour
Travel the pioneer trails northwest to Seattle on this 5-day winter escape to Seattle. Your vacation begins in Chicago, where you can enjoy some traditional Midwest winter activities before boarding the iconic Empire Builder for your journey through the snowy prairies and plains northwest to the coastal Emerald City, Seattle.
This unmistakably beautiful route takes travelers along the 2,206 mile journey from Chicago to Seattle, and your itinerary includes two nights onboard Amtrak's Empire Builder as well as one night each in Chicago and Seattle.
Day 1 - Chicago's Winter Wonderland
Your winter escape begins with a day at your leisure in Chicago. All of the city's attractions are decorated for the winter holidays. Admire the sparkling lights along Michigan Avenue. Browse the shop windows on State Street themed for the winter season. Participate in winter activities at Navy Pier. Take in panoramic views from the top of Willis Tower.
Overnight Palmer House Hilton or similar.
Day 2 - Depart Chicago aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder
Arrive at historic Union Station for your 2:15 pm departure aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder. Once onboard this legendary train, settle into your seat or private sleeper and prepare for the 2,206 mile journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. Sleeping Car passengers won't want to miss an exclusive wine and cheese tasting in the Sightseer Lounge, where you can enjoy regional wines and cheeses produced along the route you're traveling. As the train makes its way toward Minnesota, bustling cities give way to the rolling prairies of the northwest. This evening, enjoy a hot meal in the Dining Car and settle in for your first evening aboard the train.
Overnight train. (D Sleeping Car passengers only)
Day 3 - Empire Builder En Route to Seattle
As you awake this morning, the train makes its way through the snow-covered prairies of North Dakota. Keep your cameras handy today as you'll be passing through unspoiled natural beauty ripe with winter wildlife including bison, foxes, and white-tailed deer. As the train continues to move westward, the landscape gives way to rolling hills, deep canyons, and snow-capped mountains. The Sightseer Lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, is the best place to enjoy these winter scenes.
Overnight train. (B, L, D Sleeping Car passengers only)
Day 4 - Arrive in Seattle, "The Emerald City"
The Empire Builder is slated for arrival in Seattle, Washington, at 10:30 am. Transfer on your own from the rail station to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your leisure. During the winter holidays, be sure to visit Winterfest at Seattle Center. Seek out the brightly lit flotilla of ships during the Argosy Christmas Ships Festival. Browse the shops and stalls at Pike Place Market, stop at one of the weekend farmers markets that run through December throughout the city, visit historic Pioneer Square, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from atop the Space Needle. Seattle is well-known for its thriving music and theatre scenes, vibrant art galleries, and unique museums.
Overnight Warwick Hotel or similar. (B Sleeping Car passengers only)
Day 5 - Seattle
Your winter train escape comes to a close today. Transfer on your own to the airport or rail station for your return trip home-or, extend your stay in Seattle to fully experience everything the city has to offer.
Itinerary also available from Seattle to Chicago
Senior discounts are available for travelers 62+.
* Arrival and Departure times are subject to change without notice. Please be advised that passengers traveling on Empire Builder Trains may encounter delays of approximately three to six hours due to heavy congestion, speed restrictions and other operating conditions.
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, tax included. Prices are subject to change without notice, and all reservations are based upon availability at time of booking.
