Scenic Night train · Amtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corporation)

Chicago to Seattle night train

Everything you need to plan the Chicago–Seattle sleeper: operators, cabins, times, prices and rail-pass rules.

Duration
46h 10m
Frequency
Daily
Departure
15:05
Arrival
13:15
Distance
3550 km
night
2 nights onboard

We link to the operator — we never mark up the fare.

Cabins & typical prices

Seat From €75
Sleeper Cabin From €280
Private Cabin From €600

Why take this train

  • Crosses Glacier National Park in Montana, one of Amtrak's most scenic stretches
  • Splits at Spokane, WA into separate Seattle and Portland sections
  • Named after the Great Northern Railway's founder James J. Hill, the 'Empire Builder'
  • The Seattle section carries the dining car; the Portland section keeps the Sightseer Lounge observation car
  • Occasional winter weather can cause delays through the Rockies and Cascades

Rail passes & reservations

EurailNo
InterrailNo
Reservation requiredYes

No Eurail/Interrail equivalent; a USA Rail Pass (Amtrak, coach only) covers the seat but not sleeper accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Chicago to Seattle night train take?

The journey takes about 46h 10m, travelling overnight so you arrive the next morning.

How much does the Chicago–Seattle sleeper cost?

Fares start from around €75 and rise with demand and cabin type. Booking early gets the lowest prices.

Is the Chicago to Seattle train covered by Eurail or Interrail?

No — this operator does not accept Eurail or Interrail; buy a ticket directly.

What cabin types are available?

You can choose from Seat, Sleeper Cabin, Private Cabin. A reservation for your berth is reservation required.