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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

Empire Builder Experience - Chicago to Seattle

20 Oct 2023

JEANINE Philadelphia

“It was a fun experience. You get to meet a lot of nice people from all over the country/world. The train staff were friendly and helpful. I would suggest the longer version of this trip where you get a chance to get off and spend the night in some of the stops. That's my only regret!

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

America's Great National Parks

22 Sep 2023

PAMELA ZIMBARDI

“Both our guide Edgar & our bus driver Adrian were great! They were both very knowledgeable & shared great information and stories

Collected by Trustpilot

Lodges of Glacier National Park

17 Sep 2023

JAMES MILANO

“Very good/turn director and coach driver excellent

Collected by Trustpilot

America's Treasures & Natural Wonders

15 Sep 2023

Nancee REIMANN

“The train trip from Chicago to Whitefish, MT was a difficult ride. Staying in the coach seats was really uncomfortable. I believe that there was a defect in the seat I was in; a bent hard wire on the right side was irritating my leg. My husband had a VERY difficult time sleeping, or getting any rest in those seats. I would have considered the bedroom or the other option, but I believed the prices to be OUTRAGEOUS! In December, I was quoted a price over $1K for ONE NIGHT! In May, the price had increased to OVER THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS!!!! Had we flown to Whitefish, or somewhere close by, I think the overall trip would have been much better. I realize that your name is VACATIONS BY RAIL, however, much of the time on the train was during darkness, so not much scenery was available.

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 money where there is a sink and private toilet/shower. It’s nice to let someone else do the driving while you just sit and look at the scenery or rest.

Collected by Trustpilot

Calgary Stampede, Canadian Rockies & Glacier

25 Jul 2023

LIN J GRADY

“A fun, bucket-list itinerary capably led by the indefatiguable Beth. She was knowledgeable, a multimedia wizard on the motorcoach, and gave a deep background to the cultural implications and considerations of the sites we visited. We would take another of her trips in a heartbeat.

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

Empire Builder

17 results matching: Amtrak's Empire Builder