train trip from minneapolis to seattle

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This Underrated Train Is the Most Picturesque Way to See the Mississippi River, Glacier National Park, and the Pacific Northwest

Amtrak’s 46-hour Empire Builder runs daily, with stops in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.

Embrace slow travel and take in some of the most underrated natural sights in the U.S. by riding the rails between the Pacific Northwest and Chicago on one of Amtrak ’s most scenic routes: the Empire Builder . 

Justin Franz/Courtesy of Amtrak

The 46-hour long-haul journey has daily departures in both directions. Heading eastbound, the route starts at either Seattle ’s King Street Station or Union Station in Portland, Oregon . The two forks meet in Spokane and then continue on to Chicago ’s Union Station. Of course, passengers aren't required to make the entire journey and can book trips between any of the dozens of stops along the route.

Along the way, the Empire Builder passes through the nation's northernmost states in the west and midwest, running from Oregon or Washington through Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, through to Illinois. It's completely immersed in the pristine scenery of some of the country’s most stunning natural beauty, including in some remote locales that would normally be more challenging to reach, that truly makes the rail journey so enticing. 

“Eastbound from Seattle, we travel with the Puget Sound on the left side of the train and climb up and into the Cascade Mountains, [while] eastbound from Portland, we have the Columbia River Valley on the right as we travel to Spokane, where the two parts of the train are combined to continue into the Rockies,” Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari told Travel + Leisur e of some of his favorite sections of the journey. “We travel with Glacier National Park on the left and the Flathead National Forest on the right, with a monument at Marias Pass at 5,216 feet, surrounded by mountains and wildlife.” 

In fact, the Empire Builder is one of the best ways to reach Glacier National Park, since it was created by the builders of the Great Northern Railway as a tourist attraction, with three stops in the area during the on-season.  

Of particular note is the station itself in Whitefish, Montana. “Not only is [it] an important ski, B&B, and lodge destination, it contains the Stumptown Historical Society and Museum , a reference to an early name for Whitefish,” he added. Another highlight is the West Glacier station, from which travelers can drive about three hours over the Canadian border to the Waterton Glacier International Peace Park , if they're ready to take their journey even farther north.

“Another scenic highlight is on the last day of our eastbound trip, where the route follows the Mississippi River between St. Paul, Minnesota, and La Crosse, Wisconsin, with the river on the left,” Magliari said. He also noted that stations in St. Paul and Chicago themselves double as some of each city's most essential landmarks.

The 2,205-mile journey between Chicago and Seattle, or the 2,255-mile one from Portland, can be enjoyed in one of six accommodations, though they may vary by train. Those who would like privacy and comfort can opt for a Superliner Roomette — which range from 6-by-6 feet to 6-by-8 feet in length and 3-by-6 in width — that can accommodate one or two adults, with seats by day that can be transformed into upper and lower beds at night. Each also has upgraded bedding, pillows, towels, and sheets, as well as access to a shared shower and restroom. All onboard meals are included, as well first-class attendant service, priority boarding, and lounge access. 

Courtesy of Amtrak

For even more space, the Superliner Bedroom , for up to two guests, doubles the area with a 7-by-7 foot length and 6.5-by-6.5-foot width room, which includes a private sink, restroom, and shower. There’s also a sofa and separate chair that can be turned into two-tier beds. For larger parties, the Superliner Bedroom Suite can accommodate up to four people with two adjoining bedrooms, featuring twice the amenities, while the Superliner Family Room is for two adults and two children. Passengers with disabilities can also select the Superliner Accessible Bedroom , with accessible sink and restrooms in a space that’s 7-by-9.5 feet long and 6.5-by-7 feet wide.

Those who prefer a more traditional train experience can opt for coach class seats with wide reclining seats, equipped with tray tables, reading lights, and electrical outlets.

Eastbound trains leave Portland and Seattle at 4:55 p.m. PT, reaching Spokane, Washington, at 1:15 a.m. PT, before pulling into Chicago the second afternoon at 4:45 p.m. CT. Along the way, there will be a dinner service the first night, followed by three meals on the full day of travel, and breakfast and lunch on the final day. Going westbound, the train departs Chicago at 3:05 p.m. CT, and then leaves Spokane for Portland at 3:54 a.m. PT the second morning, arriving at 11:17 a.m. PT, or departs for Seattle at 3:24 am. PT and arrives at 11:29 a.m. PT., with dinner the first night, three meals the next day, and breakfast the final morning. 

Those staying in the private rooms will have their meals included as part of the traditional dining service with chef-prepared meals, including three-course dinners and a one alcoholic beverage, which can be enjoyed in the Dining Car on white linen tablecloths or privately with room service. Sample menus include omelets and quesadillas for breakfast, and burgers, salads, and chili for lunch. Dinner items may include coconut-crusted shrimp or brie-and-raspberry empanadas as appetizers, steak or Atlantic salmon as an entree, and chocolate toffee mousse or lemon cake for dessert. Additionally, there’s cafe service available from morning to night, offering both full meals and snacks.

The Empire Builder also offers checked baggage service and trainside checked bicycles , and allows small cats and dogs on board , though only for limited durations. While there is Wi-Fi, Magliari notes that there may be spotty services in areas since much of the route, especially in Montana and North Dakota, is far from the interstate highway — but that there will be service at station stops. 

With an array of dining options, cozy accommodations, and a constant palette of American landscapes outside the window, the Empire Builder provides one of the most underrated long-haul train routes. After all, as Magliari says, there’s nothing like, “Snuggling in a private room, watching the miles go by with actual 'purple mountain majesties' in Montana, sipping coffee or another drink after enjoying a meal in the Amtrak dining car.”

Train Seattle WA - Minneapolis MN

• Minneapolis
• Train Seattle to Minneapolis

Travel information

• Bus Seattle - Minneapolis

Information about the train from Seattle to Minneapolis . The train is one of the safest modes of transportation in existence, and offers a comfortable atmosphere for you to relax on your journey from Seattle to Minneapolis. Best of all, getting from Seattle to Minneapolis is budget-friendly, with train tickets starting at just $138. This is an estimate, so please contact the train ticket seller directly for precise information.

According to our database, the best route to go from Seattle to Minneapolis is through St. Paul. Take a look at the route we propose for this trip. We show you all available schedules for each train trip.

Tickets and schedules

Seattle Station

St. Paul Station

Amtrak Cascades

Amtrak Empire Builder

Frequently asked questions

How can i get cheap train tickets to go from seattle to minneapolis.

If you want to get cheap train tickets from Seattle to Minneapolis we recommend that you book in advance as the best Amtrak Cascades, Amtrak Empire Builder, Amtrak tickets sell out fast.The cheapest ticket is usually $138 and the most expensive one to go to Minneapolis is approximately $226. .Remember that you must also add the cost of the journey: St. Paul -> Minneapolis

What time is the first train from Seattle?

The first trains for the route we propose are: Seattle -> St. Paul: 07:25 St. Paul -> Minneapolis: -

What companies can help me on my trip?

The companies that can help you are: Amtrak Cascades, Amtrak Empire Builder, Amtrak.

How can I get ticket refund on Amtrak Cascades, Amtrak Empire Builder, Amtrak?

Each company has its rules and depending on the ticket, price, and offer different refund policies apply. We recommend that you contact the company where you bought the ticket to get a solution.

Why do I see more than one step on the route Seattle - Minneapolis?

In Goticket we try to give a solution for every trip the user asks. Sometimes is not possible but we do our best to group different train direct routes to in order to create a multi-step journey that satisfies the user. This is the route we recommend:: 1.- Seattle -> St. Paul 2.- St. Paul -> Minneapolis

How far is Seattle from Minneapolis?

The approximate distance between the two places is 2597 km. With the route we propose, it will take approximately 37h 39m (plus the time it takes to you to make: St. Paul -> Minneapolis).

Trains from Seattle WA

• Train Seattle to Great Falls
• Train Seattle to Bozeman
• Train Seattle to Ellensburg
• Train Seattle to West Linn
• Train Seattle to Bellflower
• Train Seattle to Pittsburg
• Train Seattle to Jonesboro
• Train Seattle to Iowa City
• Train Seattle to Natchez
• Train Seattle to Grover Beach
• Train Seattle to Oregon City
• Train Seattle to Foster City
• Train Seattle to Houma
• Train Seattle to Rocklin
• Train Seattle to Cut Bank
• Train Seattle to Roswell
• Train Seattle to Traverse City
• Train Seattle to Hickory
• Train Seattle to Walnut Creek
• Train Seattle to Williston
• Train Seattle to Petaluma
• Train Seattle to San Juan Capistrano
• Train Seattle to Auburn Hills
• Train Seattle to Fargo
• Train Seattle to Fond du Lac
• Train Seattle to San Jose

Trains to Minneapolis MN

• Train Fargo to Minneapolis
• Train Columbus to Minneapolis
• Train Williston to Minneapolis
• Train Portland to Minneapolis
• Train Lake Charles to Minneapolis
• Train Effingham to Minneapolis
• Train Spokane to Minneapolis
• Train Wolf Point to Minneapolis
• Train Erie to Minneapolis
• Train Ann Arbor to Minneapolis
• Train Brookhaven to Minneapolis
• Train Wells to Minneapolis
• Train Augusta to Minneapolis
• Train West Palm Beach to Minneapolis
• Train San Antonio to Minneapolis
• Train West Sacramento to Minneapolis
• Train Burlington to Minneapolis
• Train Hemet to Minneapolis
• Train Medford to Minneapolis
• Train Waco to Minneapolis
• Train Osceola to Minneapolis
• Train Creston to Minneapolis
• Train Jacksonville to Minneapolis
• Train Las Vegas to Minneapolis
• Train Greenville to Minneapolis
• Train Sarasota to Minneapolis

40 Best Stops Between Minneapolis and Seattle

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How long is the drive from Minneapolis to Seattle?

The direct drive from Minneapolis to Seattle is 1,657 mi (2,666 km) , and should have a drive time of 1 day in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Minneapolis to Seattle, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Yellowstone National Park , Cody , Spokane , West Yellowstone , Bozeman , Mount Rainier National Park , Coeur d'Alene , Helena , Missoula , and Billings , as well as top places to visit like Itasca State Park and North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum, or the ever-popular Kerfoot Canopy Tour.

Top cities between Minneapolis and Seattle

Yellowstone National Park

West Yellowstone

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Coeur d'Alene

Mount rainier national park, best stops along minneapolis to seattle drive, kerfoot canopy tour.

Itasca State Park

North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum

Theodore roosevelt national park, tongue ranger district and forest supervisor's office, little bighorn battlefield national monument, buffalo bill center of the west, old trail town, yellowstone lake.

Lamar River

Grand canyon of the yellowstone, thumb geyser.

Norris Geyser Basin

Mammoth hot springs, old faithful.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Yellowstone National Park Headquarters

Grand prismatic spring, grizzly & wolf discovery center, downtown bozeman partnership, museum of the rockies, montana whitewater rafting & zipline - gallatin, earthquake lake, big sky resort, gates of the mountains wilderness, cathedral of saint helena.

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A Carousel for Missoula

Whitefish mountain resort.

Lake Coeur d'Alene

Manito park, riverfront park, top searches in seattle, other popular road trips from minneapolis, explore nearby places.

• Bainbridge Island
• Lake Forest Park
• Normandy Park
• Mountlake Terrace
• Woodinville
• Port Orchard

All related maps of Seattle

• Map of Seattle
• Map of Medina
• Map of Bellevue
• Map of Kirkland
• Map of Bainbridge Island
• Map of Newcastle
• Map of Burien
• Map of Shoreline
• Map of Manchester
• Map of Lake Forest Park
• Map of Redmond
• Map of Tukwila
• Map of Renton
• Map of Normandy Park
• Map of Kenmore
• Map of Bothell
• Map of SeaTac
• Map of Mountlake Terrace
• Map of Vashon
• Map of Brier
• Map of Woodinville
• Map of Suquamish
• Map of Des Moines
• Map of Sammamish
• Map of Bremerton
• Map of Edmonds
• Map of Issaquah
• Map of Port Orchard
• Map of Keyport
• Map of Lynnwood
• Map of Kingston

Seattle throughout the year

• Seattle in January
• Seattle in February
• Seattle in March
• Seattle in April
• Seattle in May
• Seattle in June
• Seattle in July
• Seattle in August
• Seattle in September
• Seattle in October
• Seattle in November
• Seattle in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Seattle?

Get inspired for your trip to Seattle with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Seattle Itinerary
• 2-Day Seattle Itinerary
• 3-Day Seattle Itinerary
• 4-Day Seattle Itinerary
• 5-Day Seattle Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from minneapolis to seattle.

Yes! You can drive from Minneapolis to Seattle.

How far is Seattle from Minneapolis by car?

The drive from Minneapolis to Seattle is 1,657 miles (2,666 km).

How long does it take to drive from Minneapolis to Seattle?

Driving from Minneapolis to Seattle should take you 1 day in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Minneapolis to Seattle?

Gas from Minneapolis to Seattle would cost around $145 to $339 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Minneapolis to Seattle?

You could check out Itasca State Park and North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum, or the always popular Kerfoot Canopy Tour!

What are the best cities to visit between Minneapolis and Seattle?

People love visiting Yellowstone National Park, Cody, and Spokane, among others.

What's the weather like in Minneapolis?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Minneapolis in January
• Weather in Minneapolis in February
• Weather in Minneapolis in March
• Weather in Minneapolis in April
• Weather in Minneapolis in May
• Weather in Minneapolis in June
• Weather in Minneapolis in July
• Weather in Minneapolis in August
• Weather in Minneapolis in September
• Weather in Minneapolis in October
• Weather in Minneapolis in November
• Weather in Minneapolis in December

What are some other road trips from Minneapolis?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Minneapolis.

• Minneapolis to New York City drive
• Minneapolis to Chicago drive
• Minneapolis to Orlando drive
• Minneapolis to Las Vegas drive
• Minneapolis to Washington DC drive
• Minneapolis to Toronto drive
• Minneapolis to New Orleans drive
• Minneapolis to Nashville drive
• Minneapolis to Niagara Falls drive
• Minneapolis to Branson drive
• Minneapolis to Boston drive
• Minneapolis to Saint Louis drive
• Minneapolis to Montreal drive
• Minneapolis to Duluth drive
• Minneapolis to Seattle drive
• Minneapolis to Wisconsin Dells drive
• Minneapolis to Milwaukee drive
• Minneapolis to San Antonio drive
• Minneapolis to Kansas City drive
• Minneapolis to Atlanta drive
• Minneapolis to Gatlinburg drive
• Minneapolis to Philadelphia drive
• Minneapolis to Memphis drive
• Minneapolis to Vancouver drive
• Minneapolis to Cleveland drive
• Minneapolis to Louisville drive
• Minneapolis to Baltimore drive
• Minneapolis to Denver drive
• Minneapolis to Savannah drive
• Minneapolis to Dallas drive

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Trips from Seattle

• Seattle to Anacortes
• Seattle to Olympia
• Seattle to Whistler
• Seattle to Bellingham
• Seattle to Puyallup
• Seattle to Pullman
• Seattle to Port Angeles
• Seattle to Auburn
• Seattle to Bothell
• Seattle to Sacramento
• Seattle to Boise
• Seattle to Yakima
• Seattle to Missoula
• Seattle to Bellevue
• Seattle to Eugene
• Seattle to Port Townsend
• Seattle to Salt Lake City
• Seattle to Lynnwood
• Seattle to Redmond
• Seattle to Portland
• Seattle to Bremerton
• Seattle to Leavenworth
• Seattle to Spokane
• Seattle to Everett
• Seattle to Anchorage
• Seattle to Boston
• Seattle to San Jose
• Seattle to Detroit
• Seattle to Eureka
• Seattle to San Francisco
• Seattle to Houston
• Seattle to Los Angeles
• Seattle to Cedar City
• Seattle to Victoria
• Seattle to New York
• Seattle to Vancouver
• Seattle to Phoenix
• Seattle to Miami
• Seattle to Yellowstone National Park

Trips to Minneapolis

• Milwaukee to Minneapolis
• Saint Cloud to Minneapolis
• New York to Minneapolis
• Boston to Minneapolis
• Nashville to Minneapolis
• Pittsburgh to Minneapolis
• Portland to Minneapolis
• Minot to Minneapolis
• Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis
• Chicago to Minneapolis
• Fargo to Minneapolis
• Denver to Minneapolis
• Kansas City to Minneapolis
• Ann Arbor to Minneapolis
• Cleveland to Minneapolis
• Philadelphia to Minneapolis
• Kalamazoo to Minneapolis
• Detroit to Minneapolis
• Grand Forks to Minneapolis
• Ames to Minneapolis
• Hinckley to Minneapolis
• Indianapolis to Minneapolis
• Rochester to Minneapolis
• Des Moines to Minneapolis
• Baltimore to Minneapolis
• Bozeman to Minneapolis
• Bloomington to Minneapolis
• Rockford to Minneapolis
• Los Angeles to Minneapolis
• Bismarck to Minneapolis
• Cincinnati to Minneapolis
• Louisville to Minneapolis
• Austin to Minneapolis
• Dallas to Minneapolis
• Orlando to Minneapolis
• San Diego to Minneapolis
• Phoenix to Minneapolis
• Tampa to Minneapolis
• Shakopee to Minneapolis
• Saint Louis to Minneapolis

Popular routes

• Houston to Victoria
• State College to Toronto
• Boise to Twin Falls
• Albany to Toronto
• Calgary to Jasper
• Orlando to Detroit

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511 Travel Info

Passenger Rail

Existing service, empire builder (chicago to seattle and portland via minnesota).

Amtrak currently provides passenger rail service in Minnesota on its Empire Builder route from Chicago, Ill. to Portland, Ore. and Seattle, Wash.

The Empire Builder operates one daily train in each direction in Minnesota, and makes station stops in Winona, Red Wing, St. Paul/Minneapolis, St. Cloud, Staples, and Detroit Lakes. The Empire Builder also makes station stops in the border cities of La Crosse, Wis., Fargo, N.D., and Grand Forks, N.D. It operates over freight rail tracks owned by Canadian Pacific Railway, Minnesota Commercial Railway, and BNSF Railway while traveling through Minnesota.

For more information, visit the Amtrak website .

Other existing passenger rail service:

Northstar Commuter Rail (Big Lake to Minneapolis)

Road Trip from Minneapolis to Seattle

Seattle is a popular vacation destination with a wide variety of entertainment options and vibrant nightlife. The road trip from Minneapolis to this iconic city promises excitement at every turn with all the magnificent landmarks and fantastic attractions on the way.

The 1,820-mile road trip from Minneapolis to Seattle will take you 28 hours of non-stop driving. Highlights include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Spokane, Mount Rushmore, Black Hills National Forest, and Hanford Reach, Theodore Roosevelt & Glacier National Parks.

This is not a trip to be done in a rush as there are so many things to see and experience along the way. Below we discuss the different routes you can take and some of the must-see attractions along the way, so keep reading and start planning your next trip.

How far is Seattle from Minneapolis and how long will the road trip take?

A trip from Minneapolis to Seattle stretches over 1,820 miles and takes 28 hours of driving without any detours along the way. This trip could probably be completed in four days, only accounting for the necessary breaks and traffic, but what would be the fun in that?

A better option would be to take at least a week to enjoy all the exciting attractions along the way.

You can stay on the interstate for most of the trip or take a more scenic route which will take you to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Flathead National Forest. The Scenic Route is 1,840 miles long and will take you 32 hours to drive without any stops.

Whichever route you choose, you will travel past some amazing landmarks, varying from flatlands and cities to rivers and forests. On your way, you can see limestone canyon walls, rock tunnels and even some indigenous wildlife like elk and bison.

Best road trip route from Minneapolis to Seattle

The best road trip route from Minneapolis to Seattle differs widely depending on what you are after. The Interstate Route is a bit quicker, and you will be driving along the highways most of the time, while the Scenic Route takes longer but leads you through majestic forests and sights.

How to drive from Minneapolis to Seattle

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Minneapolis and Seattle. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Interstate Route

Take US-169 towards Mankato and drive past Minneopa State Park. Turn right onto MN-60 and follow it until you reach Worthington, where you will merge onto I-90.

As you cross into South Dakota, make sure to take a break at Falls Park in Sioux Falls, where you can stretch your legs before carrying on down the road until you cross the Missouri River and enter Oacoma.

Continue following I-90 until you reach Rapid City and take Exit 61 onto US-16. Keep right to continue onto US-16A, which will lead you to Mount Rushmore.

Take SD-244 after your visit and turn left onto US-16 W/US-385. Follow the road through Black Hills National Forest and into Montana, where you will cross Thunder Basin National Grasslands before getting onto I-90 again.

Stop at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman to take in some history and then head down through Lolo National Forest for some magnificent views.

Enter Washington and drive through Spokane to reach your destination in Seattle.

The Scenic Route

Take Highway 55 through Minnesota, stopping at Clearwater / Pleasant Regional Park for a break before continuing into South Dakota on MN-28 past Morris.

Take a break at Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge to do some bird watching. Continue onto SD-10 keeping Lake Traverse on your right, and turn left onto US-83. Turning right onto US-12 will take you across the Missouri River past Mobridge.

US-12 will lead you into North Dakota and to Theodore Roosevelt National Park where you can take in some rugged badlands. Turn right onto US-85 in Bowman and make your way into Montana. Drive north and turn left onto US-2.

You will drive past Sleeping Buffalo Rock, which is a historical landmark, and the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum. Make a stop at Flathead National Forest to take in some nature before continuing into Idaho.

Continue straight onto US-95 to cross Lake Pend Oreille which will take you towards Silverwood Theme Park, the Northwest's biggest theme and water park.

Briefly turn onto I-90 towards Spokane as you cross into Washington and take Exit 277 to get back onto US-2.

Driving past Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, you will reach Seattle.

Best places to stop between Minneapolis and Seattle

You will find some of the best places to stop on a road trip between Minneapolis and Seattle in South Dakota and Montana. This is a long road trip and we suggest breaking it up and taking in the spectacular views and activities along the way.

Explore the City of Presidents, Rapid City

Black Hills National Forest is home to some of the most breathtaking sites, forested hills, and towering mountains. There are many accommodation options in the area, but we recommend the fabulous Summer Creek Inn in Rapid City .

The rooms are beautifully decorated, giving you a sense of peace and tranquillity with beautiful views. You can enjoy your breakfast on the sun terrace, overlooking the garden and waterfall, before you set off to see some of the most iconic sights in America.

The hotel is located a short drive away from some iconic attractions and fantastic sights. Make a day of it by stopping at Mount Rushmore National Memorial and then taking some stunning photos at Needles Highway Scenic Overlook.

You can stretch your legs with a hike at Custer State Park before heading back to the hotel, where you can enjoy your favorite drink at the bar or relax with a massage in the spa.

Hit the slopes in Whitefish

If you follow the Scenic Route, you will pass through the gorgeous scenery of Glacier National Park, known for its pristine forests, meadows and mountains. Located in this area, Lodge at Whitefish Lake is about 550 miles from Seattle, so it is the perfect place to spend the night .

This beautiful lodge is right on the shore of Whitefish Lake, which offers opportunities for boating, swimming, water-skiing, and fishing, and the rooms will make you feel right at home with a fireplace and wonderful views of the lake and surrounding forest.

With its close proximity to the more than 700 miles of trails in the Glacier National Park, this hotel is located on the perfect base for your adventures. If you are visiting in winter, you can stop by the Whitefish Mountain Resort to ski or snowboard on its world-class slopes.

To help you unwind after your day in the great outdoors, there is an award-winning restaurant, spa and gym that will make your stay unforgettable. The best part is that the prices at this lodge are reasonable and even cheaper than some of the other hotels in the area.

Things to see on a road trip from Minneapolis to Seattle

There are so many things to see and do on a road trip from Minneapolis to Seattle. Instead of thinking of it as a road that leads to where you want to go, think of it as a journey to be enjoyed and take your time exploring all the natural beauty and activities along the way.

Here is a list of our favorite places to stop between Minneapolis and Seattle.

• Minneopa State Park, Mankato - A beautiful park filled with wildflowers that features the largest waterfall in Southern Minnesota.
• Falls Park, Sioux Falls – Feast your eyes on the spectacular falls from a five-story high observation deck and enjoy a meal at the Falls Overlook Café.
• Wild Water West Waterpark, Sioux Falls - Awaken your inner child by spending a day at this fun-filled water park that hosts a variety of water slides, a swim-up bar, a wave pool and so much more.
• The Mammoth Site, Hot Springs - An indoor active dig site where you can go on a self-guided tour and see some Ice Age fossils.
• Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota - Explore one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world.
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Keystone - Marvel at the magnificent mountain carvings of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln as you learn about the history surrounding these legendary presidents.
• The Needles Highway Scenic Overlook, Custer - A beautiful spot to take photos to immortalize this moment in your trip.
• Thunder Basin National Grassland, Douglas - Mixed-grass prairies where you can spot hawks, foxes, pronghorn and black-tailed prairie dogs.
• Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota and Wyoming - Go on a hike around this stunning park and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and pine forests.
• Custer State Park, Custer - You can camp, hike, bike, swim, and fish in this stunning 71,000-acre park.
• Yellowstone River, Montana - See the majestic Yellowstone River in all its glory and keep an eye out for wandering wildlife.
• Museum of the Rockies, Bozeman - Visit this eclectic museum to see a full T-Rex fossil and learn about the area's rich history and its paleontological roots.
• Lolo National Forest, Huson - This forest offers nine stunning trails through dense vegetation and narrow canyons.
• Manito Park, Spokane - Spend a day walking through the picturesque gardens of this 90-acre park and have a picnic in one of the manicured gardens, visit the conservatory and enjoy watching the ducks paddle along in the pond.
• Hanford Reach National Park, Mattawa - A historical hike along the river will mesmerize you with beautiful views and abundant wildlife sightings of elk, coyotes, and porcupines in this national park.

• Clearwater / Pleasant Regional Park, Annandale - A lakeside park that has a picnic area, swimming pool, fishing pier and disc golf area.
• Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Columbia - Observe migratory birds and wildlife in this refuge.
• The Klein Museum, Mobridge - This museum focuses on European and Sioux cultures and houses many local Native American and pioneer artifacts.
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota - You can observe amazing vistas and views of elk, deer, wild horses and bison roaming free in this park of rugged badlands.
• Sleeping Buffalo Rock, Saco - A historic landmark located right on the highway.
• Great Plains Dinosaur Museum, Malta - See some of the world's best-preserved dinosaur fossils here.
• Flathead National Forest, Swan Lake - Sculpted by glaciers, and covered with a rich thick forest, the landscape of this national forest is a sight to behold.
• Glacier National Park, Montana – This park boasts a variety of animals, lakes, mountains and over 700 miles of hiking trails.
• Whitefish Mountain Resort, Whitefish – A skiing resort in the winter and an adventure park that offers all sorts of different activities in the summer.
• Kaniksu National Forest, Clark Fork - Perfect for an adventurous hike or a family trip, you can take scenic hikes of all levels of difficulty here.
• Silverwood Theme Park, Athol – Let go of your worries at this exciting theme park that offers more than 70 rides as well as a water park, live entertainment, and a restaurant.
• Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, Leavenworth -Learn about these fascinating creatures in this family-run reindeer farm, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains.
• Big Four Ice Caves, Granite Falls - Fascinating ice cave formations that can be reached after a short and easy hike.
• Wallace Falls State Park - A gorgeous lakeside camping park that offers opportunities for birdwatching, boating, paragliding, and beach activities depending on the season.
• Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Wenatchee - You can camp, hike, and pick mushrooms in this national forest that encompasses 3.8 million acres.

Best time to go on a road trip from Minneapolis to Seattle

The best time to go on a road trip from Minneapolis to Seattle depends on what you want to do along the way. Keeping in mind that this is a long journey, you will want favorable weather conditions to safely travel through it.

Some of the roads and attractions will be closed in winter, especially if you are following the Scenic Route that travels further towards the North. The temperatures tend to fall below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, which is something to keep in mind for outdoor activities and driving.

However, if you are traveling in winter, you can enjoy skiing resorts like Whitefish Mountain Resort and take a stroll through the Park Winter Wonderland.

If you are travelling in the summer, there are numerous national parks with an abundance of hiking trails and wildlife that you can enjoy but this is also the peak season for most of the attractions on the way and hotel prices will be at their peak.

Summer temperatures stay mild on both routes, with temperatures staying in the range of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning this is an excellent time to enjoy outdoor activities.

Spring and fall are great times to take this road trip to enjoy the changing colors of the natural scenery. Since you will be driving in the northern parts of America, the weather will be chilly with temperatures seeing averages of 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack accordingly.

If you are traveling to Seattle in April, you can check out the colorful Skagit Tulip Festival to admire many fascinating flower fields at their peak season.

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Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, 20 best amtrak trips from seattle.

Three of Amtrak’s most scenic routes stop in Seattle: Cascades , Coast Starlight and Empire Builder . There are many options for day and long-distance trips to explore mountains, beaches and cities big and small. To start planning, here are the 20 best Amtrak trips from Seattle that don’t require a train transfer or middle-of-the-night travel.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page . For current schedules and ticket prices, visit Amtrak.com.

For a quick Amtrak day trip, book tickets to Tacoma . Travel time is only 45 minutes and you can return same day to Seattle. The large Point Defiance Park is a top attraction. It has a marina, beach, zoo, aquarium, trails and gardens that are great for the whole family. There are also several museums to check out, including the popular Museum of Glass and America’s Car Museum .

For more things to do, visit nearby Gig Harbor. There are boat tours , a waterfront park, history museum and restaurants. Narrows Brewing Company (pictured above) is also a fun place to enjoy the views.

Bellingham is a great summer getaway and easy day trip destination that’s 2.5 hours away from Seattle on Amtrak. The area is full of lakes, hiking trails and a few waterfalls. You can also take a bus tour to Mt. Baker , pick berries , or shop, eat and go to an event in the Fairhaven Village , including the First Fridays Art Walk .

The Amtrak station is about a 5-minute walk to the village and even shorter walk to the ferry terminal that will transport you to Alaska . For hiking and other outdoor adventures, including at the beautiful Whatcom Falls Park and Lake Padden Park (pictured above), use Lyft, Uber or rent a car. The local Enterprise offers pickup service (call ahead to confirm and make arrangements).

A pedestrian-friendly and bike-friendly city full of parks and gardens , Portland is a fun Amtrak trip from Seattle. There are many craft beers to try and interesting festivals to plan a trip around. Plus, Mt. Hood (home to multiple ski areas) and the Columbia River Gorge are also nearby, which are great day trip options and reasons to stay for a night or more in the area.

Travel time is 3.5 hours on the Cascades route, or if you want a roomette or bedroom , book tickets on the Coast Starlight for a four-hour ride.

Leavenworth

In the foothills of the Cascades, Leavenworth is a Bavarian-themed town with events , shops, restaurants , wine tasting rooms, and even a nutcracker museum . Winter is a charming time to visit with holiday lights, sleigh rides, a reindeer farm and nearby skiing and snowboarding . Hiking, whitewater rafting and other recreational activities are also options in warmer weather.

When booking your tickets, choose the Leavenworth Icicle Amtrak Station as your destination. To reach the village (where there are several  hotels ), plan to use the  shuttle  (509-548-7433). Trip time on Amtrak is about 3.5 hours and you’ll need to stay at least one night in the town.

Vancouver, B.C.

Grab your passport and board Amtrak for a four-hour train ride to Vancouver, B.C. It’s one of the most scenic cities in Canada with many outdoor activities. Top things to do include whale watching , boat tours , and exploring the large and beautiful Stanley Park , Queen Elizabeth Park , Granville Island and the historic Gastown neighborhood.

You can return to Seattle on the same day, especially if you take the first morning train to Vancouver. If you stay for a night or more, Whistler is about a 1.5 drive away and is a fun place to visit (rent a car or check out day tours ).

The capital of Oregon, Salem is five hours away from Seattle on the Cascades and almost six hours away on the Coast Starlight. It is a beautiful area with many gardens and parks . Vineyards are also nearby, great for wine tasting excursions . If you’re traveling with kids, head to the Enchanted Forest Theme Park or the Riverfront Carousel for family-friendly fun. For spring flowers, don’t miss the cherry blossoms in April.

The earliest arrival in Salem is midday and you can return to Seattle around dinnertime. The station is on the outskirts of town so plan on using rideshare to get around.

A college town near wineries and outdoor recreation, Eugene is a great Amtrak trip from Seattle. Travel time is 6.5 hours on the Cascades and almost 7.5 hours on the Coast Starlight. After you arrive, you can go to a game at the University of Oregon, visit the Cascades Raptor Center , and walk or bike along the Willamette River path . There are also many great hikes and farm-to-table restaurants to check out.

Lyft and Uber are transportation options, otherwise you can rent a car at  Enterprise  or walk around the city. The Amtrak station is in a very walkable area near a few  hotels , restaurants,  Skinner Butte Park  and the historic  Eugene Saturday Market .

Just over 13 hours from Seattle on Amtrak, Whitefish  is a Montana resort town full of  events ,  restaurants  and  places to stay . Head to the  Whitefish Mountain Resort  to ski in the winter, hang out at  City Beach  in the summer, or rent a car and drive to Glacier National Park in about 30 minutes. Don’t want to drive? Book a national park tour with  Whitefish Outfitters .

Many hotels and resorts in the area have shuttles ( view the list ), which can make getting around easier. Confirm shuttle availability before booking. You can also rent a car with  Budget  at the Whitefish Amtrak Station, use rideshare or taxis, and fly out of nearby Glacier Park International Airport if you don’t want travel by train back to Seattle.

Glacier National Park

Ride Amtrak overnight to reach the amazing landscapes in  Glacier National Park . The East Glacier Park Station is just over 15.5 hours away from Seattle and you’ll have great views of the Rocky Mountains on the way. The historic  Glacier Park Lodge is a five-minute walk away from the train station or use the hotel shuttle.

The lodge has a pool, golf course and connections to  tour buses  that will take you into the national park. Note that the lodge is only open late May through most of September.

Rail fans should consider a trip to Sacramento to explore the California State Railroad Museum . In addition to exhibits, the museum also has excursion train rides. Other top places to visit include the California State Fair (in July), Old Sacramento Waterfront District and the many farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants . You’ll eat well here, and there are many local beers to try.

The train station is in a walkable area near hotels and attractions, and Lyft and Uber are options for getting around after you arrive — travel time from Seattle is about 20.5 hours. For more train adventures, you can transfer to the scenic California Zephyr route at the station.

Oakland/San Francisco

Next to San Francisco Bay, Oakland is 23 hours away from Seattle on Amtrak and has a variety of things to see and do. Top attractions include the Oakland Museum of California , Redwood Regional Park , Urban Wine Trail and the Oakland Zoo . Plus, Jack London Square (pictured above) is next to the Amtrak station and has restaurants, bars and hotels near the waterfront.

Oakland also has ferry service  to  San Francisco . The ferry will drop you off next to the Ferry Building in the heart of downtown. The  Embarcadero BART Station  is a transit option once you arrive, and the  California cable car  is also in walking distance. Don’t miss  Alcatraz Island ,  Golden Gate Bridge ,  Pier 39  and the  Twin Peaks Lookout .

A sunny city full of culture and entertainment, San Jose  is 24 hours away from Seattle on the Coast Starlight. The  SAP Center  (concerts and NHL hockey games) and Little Italy are in walking distance of the Amtrak station. With rideshare or car rental, you can also visit top attractions , including the Winchester Mystery House, Egyptian Museum, Santana Row (full of shops and restaurants, pictured above), Municipal Rose Garden and Japantown . 

As a bonus, you can fly back to Seattle if you want to shorten the travel time. The airport is only 15 minutes away from downtown via car. Otherwise, the return train to Seattle departs each day in the evening.

Paso Robles

Paso Robles is a 28-hour train ride away from Seattle and a must-visit destination if you love wine. Vineyards and wineries surround the small city, and you can walk to several hotels and wine tasting rooms from the Amtrak station. Wine tours are also available.

Outside of wine, there are many great restaurants and mineral hot springs to check out. Cayucos and Morro Bay , two quaint coastal towns, are also a 40-minute drive away if you want a change of scenery. Rental cars are available at Enterprise .

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo  is a great family getaway or a wine trip that’s almost 29 hours away from Seattle by train. Downtown there is a  children’s museum ,  railroad museum ,  historic mission , hotels and restaurants. Adults can also enjoy the many  wineries  in the area (the  Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards  has peacocks). Choose from the many  wine tours , including with  SLO Safe Ride , to avoid drinking and driving.

You can also use rideshare (or rent a car) to visit  Morro Bay State Park ,  Dinosaur Caves Park , Avila Beach and hiking trails at  Valencia Peak  and  Bishop Peak  (both have amazing views).

Santa Barbara

About 32.5 hours away from Seattle on Amtrak, Santa Barbara has beautiful architecture, beaches , restaurants and shopping on State Street . Plus, there are many attractions to check out, including the Santa Barbara Zoo , Mission Santa Barbara and Cabrillo Bike Path . Consider visiting in July or August if you want to enjoy the beaches and go to the Old Spanish Days festival. For whale watching , plan to visit Santa Barbara between November and April.

The area around the Amtrak station is very walkable so you can can easily reach restaurants , hotels and even Stearns Wharf on foot. If you want to rent a car, Enterprise is nearby. Lyft and Uber are also options.

If you want to enjoy the California coast away from the crowds, consider an Amtrak trip to Oxnard . The city has Victorian architecture , beautiful beaches, whale watching excursions and water activities at Channel Islands Harbor . For a unique day trip, take a boat ride to Channel Islands National Park , often called the Galapagos of North America.

Enterprise  is near the Oxnard Amtrak Station and pick-up service is available. Lyft and Uber are also options for getting around. A vacation rental or hotel near the ocean is recommended. Travel time from Seattle is 33.5 hours.

Los Angeles

At the end of the Coast Starlight route is  Los Angeles  and the beautiful  L.A. Union Station . Travel time from Seattle is about 35.5 hours, and you can also book tickets to the Van Nuys Station for a shorter ride and easier access to Griffith Observatory  (pictured above) and  Universal Studios Hollywood . Other top places to visit include the  Getty Center ,  Beverly Hills , Santa Monica Pier  and the  Hollywood Sign . 

Rental cars are available inside the station or use rideshare to get around.  City tours  are also a great way to see the city (and potentially a celebrity!). Consider staying in Hollywood ,  West Hollywood ,  Beverly Hills ,  Santa Monica  or Venice Beach  for easy access to top attractions.

Minneapolis/St. Paul

About 37.5 hours away from Seattle on Amtrak, Minneapolis and St. Paul are full of cultural attractions, sport venues and outdoor fun — including a  scenic bike trail  along the Mississippi River, Chain of Lakes recreation and a beautiful  urban park with a waterfall . If you don’t like cold weather, plan to visit between May and September, although the  Saint Paul Winter Carnival  is a historic event worth checking out.

Trains stop in downtown St. Paul near  museums  and the historic  Summit Avenue .  Hyatt Place  is conveniently next to the Amtrak station and several  other hotels  are nearby. Downtown Minneapolis is only a 15-minute drive away and you’ll want to consider booking  lodging  there if you want to be close to  nightlife .

Wisconsin Dells

A great destination for families, the  Wisconsin Dells  has many indoor and outdoor  water parks ,  boat tours  and  outdoor activities . Trains arrive in a walkable downtown area near a riverwalk , restaurants and accommodations. You can walk to  White Rose Inns  and  Alpine Motel , two of the top-rated places to stay in town. Or book a room at a  hotel with a shuttle  (verify pickup service from Amtrak before booking).

Travel time on the Empire Builder is 42 hours and you’ll spend two nights on the train. If you don’t want to take the train back to Seattle, you can ride Amtrak to Milwaukee, Chicago or Minneapolis for a flight home after your stay.

Chicago is full museums , live music venues and tourist attractions , including the Willis Tower Skydeck, Navy Pier and Wrigley Field. In the warmer months, you can visit one of the city’s beaches , go on a boat tour and take a bike ride along the Lakefront Trail . There are also many festivals and nightlife venues to check out.

It’s best to stay two nights to explore the city, especially after traveling 45.5 hours on the train. Popular hotel areas near attractions include the  Loop ,  West Loop  and  River North . There are also flights back to Seattle at Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway airports, or check out the best Amtrak trips from Chicago to continue on your rail adventure.

More Information

• 10 best stops on the Empire Builder
• 10 best stops on the Coast Starlight
• Amtrak Cascades vs Coast Starlight

Top photo credit: Niranjan Arminius (Santa Barbara Butterfly Beach)

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9 Unbelievable Scenic Trains From Seattle For A Relaxing Getaway

You'll find it hard to do anything other than watching the stunning scenery pass by the train window.

These scenic trains from Seattle deserve a spot on your bucket list.

You can hop on a train in Seattle and visit a Bavarian mountain town, pass through the Cascade Mountains, visit magnificent national parks, head to the beach, or ride all the way to Chicago. These incredible scenic trains from Seattle offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Read on for our top 9 scenic train trips from Seattle!

1. Los Angeles, CA

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Want to escape Seattle’s gray weather? Take Amtrak’s Coast Starlight train from Seattle to Los Angeles. This train route departs from Seattle daily and takes 35 hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy stunning views of the Cascade mountain range and the Pacific coastline. Book your trip on the Coast Starlight here .

2. Vancouver, BC

The Amtrak Cascades route provides two daily round-trip trains between Seattle and Vancouver, BC. You’ll soak up views of the Pacific Northwest on your way to the exciting city of Vancouver: a perfect weekend getaway. Get tickets on the Amtrak website —and don’t forget your passport!

3. Calgary, AB

Amtrak’s Seattle and Canadian Rockies Winter Discovery route takes you from Seattle to Calgary. This nine-day train ride gives you breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and includes breaks for you to explore Vancouver, Jasper National Park, and Sulphur Mountain. Book your Winter Discovery trip here .

4. Leavenworth, WA

This is one of the most classic scenic train rides in Washington State. Take this route and enjoy the rugged Cascade Mountains and the Skykomish River. If you’re looking for a true winter wonderland, we recommend visiting Leavenworth’s Christmastown during December. You can also go in the fall for Oktoberfest fun, or head there this summer to be among the first to try the new alpine rollercoaster . An Amtrak train heads to the Bavarian town from Seattle each Saturday.

5. Glacier National Park

Experience the rugged splendor of the American West. This route between Seattle and Chicago gives you the opportunity to enjoy majestic views, and pass through some major natural beauties. If you decide to go all the way to Chicago, you’ll enjoy a 46-hour long train ride that passes through Spokane and Minneapolis. You don’t have to go all the way though; hop off at the Glacier National Park and revel in the glorious sights of this wondrous park.

6. Snoqualmie Valley Railroad

Hop on the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad and enjoy a historic and mesmerizing 5.5-mile ride through the Upper Snoqualmie Valley. This 1880s Seattle Lake and Eastern Railway is a 90 minutes scenic ride between North Bend and Snoqualmie Falls. Enjoy incredible views and a unique historic experience on board. We recommend checking their website for more info on schedules and calendar updates.

7. Chehalis River Valley

Travel back to the 1920s aboard the beautifully restored Chehalis-Centralia Railroad, and enjoy a scenic ride through the Chehalis River Valley. Ride through the beautiful Lewis County countryside, and enjoy fascinating views of wooded forests, old farmsteads, country homes, and tranquil nature sites. The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad serves as both a train and a museum, and it offers various schedules, routes, and fares. We recommend visiting their website and choosing the best one for you!

8. Vance Creek Railriders

Want to try something a little different? This rare experience offers a unique scenic “train” ride for all visitors, where you can pedal through the amazing Olympic Peninsula aboard the Simpson Logging Company Railway. This expedition is perfect for nature enthusiasts, birders, cyclists, and rail fans that are looking to get out in nature.

9. Portland, OR

We know Portland is a short drive from Seattle, but we must make the case for taking the train from Seattle to Portland. This three-and-a-half-hour scenic train ride not only lets someone take in the true beauty that is the glorious Pacific Northwest, but Amtrak recently expanded this route, offering up to six daily round trip trains between two most popular U.S. cities on this route.

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