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Empire Builder

Since the early days of Amtrak, the Empire Builder has been presenting the immense beauty of America's northern states. Travelers are treated to expansive vistas of the Midwestern prairies, views of the Rocky Mountains, glimpses at glaciers, and scenes of stunning cityscapes as the train traverses the heart of the country. In all, the route covers over 2,200 miles and occurs over two days and one night of travel.

Passengers may select from three departure dates per week and enjoy a host of onboard amenities, including access to a double-decker car that features a domed glass Sightseer Lounge on the upper level and a Café Car on the lower level. In the Sightseer Lounge, panoramic windows line the train car, curving up onto the roof for unimpeded views of the passing scenery. The chairs in the Lounge swivel to allow guests to converse with one another or to look outside. Single chairs and groups of up to five are available, as are seats at tables. In the lower-level Café Car, booths sit beside picture windows, offering another perspective on the incredible scenery.

While Amtrak's Empire Builder offers modern amenities and an impressive route that highlights both the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest, the course it follows is anything but new. By one line or another, trains have traversed the route between Chicago and the West Coast on these rails since 1929. A journey on the Empire Builder makes it obvious why this expedition has remained popular for nearly 100 years.

Our customers love our Empire Builder tours

America's Great National Parks

26 Jul 2024

Laura Bronzo

“I do not feel I could've ever arranged a trip on my own that included so many parks and experiences. All of the hotels we stayed at were wonderful and our tour guide and bus driver were extremely experienced, knowledgeable and friendly.

Collected by Trustpilot

Calgary Stampede, Canadian Rockies & Glacier

19 Jul 2024

Barbara

“The scenery was spectacular. Our guide Sean was wonderful. He filled us in on a lot of history of the sights we were seeing with videos and narration. It was a god experience.

Collected by Trustpilot

America's Treasures & Natural Wonders

10 Jul 2024

Mela Mathews

“We enjoyed touring the six western US National Parks, and were excited that we got to see all the highlights of each Park. The Tour Guide was very good at covering the history and natural features, and the Coach Driver was excellent. The Empire Builder roomette was good for viewing...

Collected by Trustpilot

Glacier National Park Escape - Seattle Roundtrip

27 Sep 2023

George Foglesong

“People on the train and lodge were great, friendly and very helpful

Collected by Trustpilot

Empire Builder with Glacier National Park - Chicago to Seattle

09 Sep 2023

JULIA ADAMS

“The ride was as comfortable as it could be for the space confinement of a train. We got the roomette which was well worth the upgrade over coach. All meals were included and you can lay down to sleep. There is a private cabin available for quite a bit more...

Collected by Trustpilot

Empire Builder with Alaska Cruise

17 Jul 2023

VIVIAN MAY MCCOY

“Train was relaxing, great food and gave a view of territory unseen. Cruise spoiled us, staff was so accommodating and views of glacier off our balcony was great.

Collected by Trustpilot

Glacier National Park & Seattle

26 Sep 2022

KATHLEEN TURNBULL

“Our trip was cancelled because of potential railway strike. We are waiting to hear about reimbursement.

Collected by Trustpilot

Glacier National Park Escape - Chicago to Seattle

17 Sep 2021

RKCharlton

“We enjoyed the experience through Vacations by Rail.

Collected by Trustpilot

Glacier National Park & Chicago

17 Jul 2024

MATTHEW FOX

“Glacier was amazing and the tours were great

Collected by Trustpilot

Empire Builder

17 results matching: Amtrak's Empire Builder