Amtrak in Wisconsin offers both frequent corridor service to Chicago and connections to cross-country routes, with scenic stops such as Wisconsin Dells and La Crosse. This guide covers everything you need to know about riding Amtrak from Wisconsin stations, from route options and onboard amenities to booking tips for first-time travelers.
Wisconsin even offers the opportunity to transition from trains to planes in Milwaukee!
Amtrak Routes in Wisconsin
Wisconsin may not have the most extensive train system, but it has some great routes that serve travelers well.
Borealis
- Route: Chicago to St. Paul
- Train Type: Amtrak Midwest regional
- Wisconsin Stops: Similar to the Empire Builder route to the Twin Cities, this route adds stops in Sturtevant, WI, and at Milwaukee Airport.
- What to Expect: Reserved Coach Class seating, café car, midday schedule
- Great For: Midwest travelers seeking more timing flexibility without overnight options
Hiawatha Service
- Route: Chicago to Milwaukee
- Train Type: Amtrak Midwest regional equipment can vary.
- Frequency: Multiple daily round-trips (usually 6–7)
- Intermediate Stops in Wisconsin: Sturtevant, Milwaukee Airport (MKA), Milwaukee Intermodal (MKE)
- What to Expect: Reserved Coach Class seating, Wi-Fi, and a quick 90-minute ride
- Fun Fact: One of Amtrak’s busiest short routes
- Great For: Day trips, airport transfers, and commuters
Empire Builder
- Route: Chicago to Seattle/Portland (via Minneapolis – St. Paul)
- Train Type: Long-distance Superliner
- Wisconsin Stops: Milwaukee, Columbus, Portage, Wisconsin Dells, Tomah, La Crosse
- What to Expect: Coach and Sleeper accommodations, Sightseer Lounge, café car, and Traditional Dining for sleeper passengers
- Scenery Alert: Wisconsin Dells is a fan favorite—especially during the fall foliage season!
- Great For: Scenic travel, long-distance adventures, and National Park trips
Amtrak’s I‑41 Connecting Service. This service ended on October 1, 2025
Wisconsin’s Republican-controlled state legislature has reduced funding for passenger rail operations from the state budget. This decision comes despite Democratic Governor Tony Evers’s request for over $15 million to expand rail services and maintain existing operations, including the I-41 bus service. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) made this decision, not Amtrak.
Wisconsin Amtrak Stations and Routes
Wisconsin train stations are categorized into three types: staffed stations, which have ticket windows and staff assistance during business hours; unstaffed stations, which feature waiting rooms but no staff; and platform stations, which provide only basic shelters. Here is what you will find at each type:
- Milwaukee Intermodal Station – MKE – Staffed Station Building (with waiting room)
Routes: Hiawatha, Borealis, Empire Builder, Amtrak I‑41 Thruway Bus
A comprehensive service center that offers parking, ticketing, and connections to buses and ride-sharing services. - Milwaukee Airport – MKA – Unstaffed Station Building (including a waiting room)
Routes: Hiawatha, Borealis
The location on the west side of the airport campus is very convenient for making connections from the train to your flight. - Sturtevant – SVT– Unstaffed Station Building (including a waiting room)
Routes: Hiawatha, Borealis
The nearest stop for Racine and Kenosha counties. - Wisconsin Dells – WDL – Unstaffed Station Building (including a waiting room)
Routes: Empire Builder, Borealis
A popular vacation destination, particularly for families. - Columbus – CBS – Unstaffed Station Building (including a waiting room)
Routes: Empire Builder, Borealis
The nearest station to Madison is approximately a 30-minute drive away. - Portage – POG – Unstaffed Platform with Shelter
Routes: Empire Builder, Borealis
A small-town station that offers free parking and a peaceful atmosphere. - Tomah – TOH – Unstaffed Station Building (including a waiting room)
Routes: Empire Builder, Borealis
Residents of Western Wisconsin can use local bus services and ride-sharing options. - La Crosse – LSE – Staffed Station Building (with waiting room)
Routes: Empire Builder, Borealis
Western Wisconsin offers access to local buses and ride-sharing services.
Possible Future Amtrak Routes in Wisconsin
Efforts are in motion to bring more train service to the state:
- Madison: Plans are in development to add passenger service that could happen by the early 2030s
- Green Bay & Appleton: Potential expansions heading north from Milwaukee
- Eau Claire: Another proposal aims to connect this city with the Twin Cities and beyond
While no launch dates are official, it’s clear that train fans in Wisconsin have reason to be hopeful!
What to Expect Onboard Amtrak in Wisconsin
On Regional Trains (Hiawatha, Borealis)
- Reserved Coach seating
- Café car (Borealis only)
- Wi-Fi available
- Overhead storage and tray tables
- No checked baggage service
- Power outlets, restrooms, and no middle seats
Learn how to board an Amtrak train like a pro
On Long-Distance Trains (Empire Builder)
- Reserved Coach and Sleeper accommodations
- Checked baggage (at select stations)
- Access to the Sightseer Lounge car with a Café on the lower level.
- Traditional dining car with full meals
- Power outlets, restrooms, and spacious seating
First-Time Tips for Riding Amtrak in Wisconsin
- Book Early: Especially on the Empire Builder—sleeper space goes fast
- Snacks: Café cars are convenient, but you can also bring your own food, especially on the Hiawatha.
- Know Your Station: Smaller stops may not have agents or waiting areas
- Luggage Limits: One personal item and two carry-ons are free
- Get Connected: Milwaukee Intermodal has taxis, buses, and ride-shares ready to go
Amtrak in Wisconsin: Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there three Amtrak Stops in Milwaukee?
If you’re traveling to or from Milwaukee, ensure you check which station you’re booking for. The state has three stations, each providing slightly different services.
- MKE is a staffed station in downtown Milwaukee that provides both train and bus service.
- MKA is the airport train station located on the west side of the airport campus.
Can you take a train between Wisconsin and Chicago?
Yes! The Hiawatha and Borealis offer regular, direct service between Chicago and Milwaukee, with additional stops in Wisconsin.
Does Amtrak serve Madison, Wisconsin?
Currently, there is no station in Madison. The nearest station is located in Columbus, WI, approximately a 30-minute drive away. Restoration of service to Madison is underway, but such efforts often take longer than anticipated.
What’s the best train for visiting Wisconsin Dells?
The Empire Builder and Borealis both stop in Wisconsin Dells. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the route! The best train is the one that fits your schedule and budget.
Does it matter which Empire Builder train I book when traveling through Wisconsin?
When booking a trip on the Empire Builder, you’ll notice two train numbers: 7 and 27 heading west and 8 and 28 heading east. This is because the Empire Builder operates as a combined train between Chicago and Spokane, Washington.
From Spokane, Train 7 continues to Seattle, while Train 27 travels to Portland. On the return journey, Train 8 departs from Seattle, and Train 28 departs from Portland. These trains merge in Spokane before proceeding east to Chicago.
If you’re traveling on the Empire Builder through Wisconsin, it doesn’t matter which section you choose to book—they’re the same train for this part of the route. I usually recommend selecting the more economical option.
If you are interested, you can learn more about trains with multiple train numbers.
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Final Thoughts on Amtrak in Wisconsin
My first experience with Amtrak was on the Hiawatha train out of Sturtevant, Wisconsin. I took it down to Chicago for a weekend getaway, and that ride sparked my love of train travel.
Amtrak in Wisconsin offers a variety of travel opportunities, whether you’re taking a quick trip to Chicago or embarking on a scenic journey west. The routes are convenient, and the views, especially in the fall, make the ride worthwhile.
If you want to enjoy Wisconsin’s vibrant autumn colors, taking the train is a great option! The Borealis and the Empire Builder both offer amazing views. However, keep in mind that the westbound Empire Builder may not be the best choice, as much of the route will be experienced after dark. Overall, traveling by train is a breathtaking way to see the changing seasons.
Safe travels and happy planning!
Kev
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