One Of America's Best Train Rides Offers A Legendary Trip Between Chicago & The West Coast

Traveling on an airplane may be a faster way to get to your destination, but traveling by train is the way to go if you want to experience all of the epic scenery along the way. It's also one of the most eco-friendly methods of transportation. Train travel is infinitely more popular in Europe than it is in the United States, but there are still a few incredible train journeys worth taking in the expansive North American country. Amtrak's legendary Empire Builder train takes passengers from the Midwestern city of Chicago all the way to the West Coast.

Amtrak is the main company that transports passengers on trains in the United States. It has routes that run between big cities all over the nation, and the Empire Builder is one of the most iconic. This famous route has been running since 1929. It begins in the lively city of Chicago, which is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, and then meanders through the American West before arriving In Spokane, Washington. From there you can continue toward either Portland, Oregon, or Seattle, Washington, which are two of the most popular cities in the Pacific Northwest. Along the way you'll pass through multiple states and have the opportunity to view some of the country's most beautiful scenery from the train's windows.

The multi-day journey on the Empire Builder is perfect for anyone who is interested in experiencing slow travel, a new, immersive style of vacation that is emerging in response to overtourism. If you're someone who believes the real magic of travel lies in the journey as opposed to the destination, this train trip belongs on your bucket list.

The Empire Builder departs daily. It crosses through seven or eight different states (depending on which route you choose) and stops at over 40 different train stations across the country. You can begin from any of the stations serviced by the route, but if you choose to travel the entire route it will take you around 46 hours. In total, you'll cover around 2,200 miles.

Passengers who purchase tickets on the Empire Builder have a few different options to choose from. The most affordable way to travel on the legendary train is to book a seat in coach, which costs just over $100 in one direction. The coach seats are comfortable and they do recline, but for such a long journey you may want to opt for more space. Roomettes are a big upgrade from coach. They have two comfortable seats in a private room, and the seats convert into beds when you're ready to get some sleep. Blankets and pillows are provided, and so are complimentary meals throughout the journey. Prices for each Roomette start at around $1,300. 

If you're looking for even more space and privacy, consider booking a bedroom. Bedroom prices start at around $2,800 and feature private bathrooms and showers, and all meals are included. Family rooms that span the entire width of the car and accommodate two adults and two children are also available. At the time of writing, ticket prices varied greatly depending on the departure date. Make sure that you plan your trip well in advance and check a few different dates to score the best rate. Train travel can be a wonderful way for people who have limited mobility to enjoy stunning natural scenery, and there are wheelchair accessible rooms available on the Empire Builder.

If you begin in Chicago, a popular destination that was recently ranked the world's most beautiful city, you should definitely carve out some time to explore before you hop on board the Empire Builder. Visit a legendary Chicago jazz club, catch a game at a historic ballpark, or wander around the Lake Michigan waterfront. Whatever you do, make sure you sample a slice of world-famous Chicago-style pizza before you depart. When it's time to catch your train, you will depart from Union Station. Chicago has two major international airports. Chicago O'Hare International Airport is about 18 miles away from the train station. Chicago Midway International Airport is about 10 miles from the station. Chicago has an excellent public transportation system along with plenty of rideshare services and taxis, so getting to the station will be a breeze.

The Empire Builder departs Chicago around 3 p.m., so on your first night you will enjoy dinner on the train in the dining car. If you booked a room, your meal will be included, and if you're in coach you can choose to purchase a meal separately or pack your own food with you if you're traveling on a budget. The following day you will enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the train. Most of your time will be spent on board but there are a few breaks where you can hop off and stretch your legs for a few minutes. The scenery zooming past the windows will provide hours of entertainment during the day, and the motion of the train will rock you to sleep at night. 

You'll pass through parts of Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana before arriving in Spokane, Washington. From there you can opt to board a train to Seattle, Washington, or Portland, Oregon. Gorgeous views of the United States can be enjoyed all along the route. A few major highlights include the Mississippi River, the plains of North Dakota, Montana's Big Sky country, and Glacier National Park.