Booking Amtrak In North Dakota..!!
North Dakota might be known for its vast prairies and rugged badlands, but it’s also home to a vital artery of American rail travel: Amtrak’s legendary Empire Builder route. This train offers a unique, scenic, and surprisingly relaxing way to traverse the state, connecting bustling cities with charming small towns.
Whether you’re a seasoned train enthusiast, planning a cross-country adventure, or simply looking for an alternative way to explore the Roughrider State, understanding North Dakota’s Amtrak stations is your first step. This complete guide will walk you through each station, detailing its services and providing crucial distance information to key cities and airports.
The Empire Builder: North Dakota’s Rail Lifeline
The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and Seattle/Portland, slicing through North Dakota as it makes its way across the northern plains. This iconic route offers breathtaking views, especially from the Sightseer Lounge car, and a chance to experience travel at a slower, more contemplative pace.
All of North Dakota’s Amtrak stations are served by the Empire Builder, running from east to west (or vice versa). Let’s explore them!
1. Grand Forks, ND (GFK)
As the easternmost Amtrak stop in North Dakota, Grand Forks welcomes travelers from Minnesota and beyond. This vibrant university city offers a blend of cultural attractions, a charming downtown, and proximity to the Red River.
- Station Address: 500 Kittson Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Services: Staffed station, checked baggage service, ticket office, waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, short-term and long-term parking, accessible platform.
- Nearby Attractions: University of North Dakota, Ralph Engelstad Arena, Grand Forks Greenway.
Grand Forks Amtrak Station: Distances to Key Locations
| Destination | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Fargo, ND | 80 |
| Bismarck, ND | 200 |
| Minot, ND | 220 |
| Williston, ND | 350 |
| Grand Forks Int’l Airport (GFK) | 5 |
| Hector Int’l Airport (FAR) | 80 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul Int’l Airport (MSP) | 300 |
2. Devils Lake, ND (DVL)
Nestled by the shores of North Dakota’s largest natural lake, Devils Lake is a popular destination for fishing and outdoor recreation. The Amtrak stop here is quaint, offering direct access to this unique part of the state.
- Station Address: 124 W Junction Ave, Devils Lake, ND 58301
- Services: Unstaffed station, outdoor shelter, short-term parking, accessible platform. No checked baggage.
- Nearby Attractions: Devils Lake (fishing, boating), Grahams Island State Park, Fort Totten State Historic Site.
Devils Lake Amtrak Station: Distances to Key Locations
| Destination | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Grand Forks, ND | 90 |
| Bismarck, ND | 160 |
| Minot, ND | 130 |
| Williston, ND | 260 |
| Grand Forks Int’l Airport (GFK) | 90 |
| Minot Int’l Airport (MOT) | 130 |
3. Rugby, ND (RUG)
Rugby holds a special place on the map as the “Geographical Center of North America.” While a small town, its Amtrak stop is a point of interest for many travelers. Don’t miss the monument if you have time!
- Station Address: 201 Main Ave E, Rugby, ND 58368
- Services: Unstaffed station, small enclosed waiting area, short-term parking, accessible platform. No checked baggage.
- Nearby Attractions: Geographical Center of North America Monument, Prairie Village Museum.
Rugby Amtrak Station: Distances to Key Locations
| Destination | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Devils Lake, ND | 50 |
| Minot, ND | 70 |
| Bismarck, ND | 140 |
| Grand Forks, ND | 140 |
| Williston, ND | 200 |
| Minot Int’l Airport (MOT) | 70 |
4. Minot, ND (MOT)
Minot is one of North Dakota’s larger cities and a significant hub for the Empire Builder. Home to Minot Air Force Base and the North Dakota State Fair, it’s a bustling stop with full services.
- Station Address: 100 NW 1st St, Minot, ND 58703
- Services: Staffed station, checked baggage service, ticket office, waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, short-term and long-term parking, accessible platform.
- Nearby Attractions: Roosevelt Park Zoo, Scandinavian Heritage Park, Minot Air Force Base.
Minot Amtrak Station: Distances to Key Locations
| Destination | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Rugby, ND | 70 |
| Bismarck, ND | 110 |
| Grand Forks, ND | 220 |
| Williston, ND | 140 |
| Minot Int’l Airport (MOT) | 5 |
| Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS) | 110 |
5. Stanley, ND (STN)
Stanley is a smaller community in the heart of North Dakota’s oil country. The Amtrak stop here serves as a gateway to the Bakken region, witnessing the pulse of rural industry.
- Station Address: Depot Museum, 222 Main St W, Stanley, ND 58784
- Services: Unstaffed station, small enclosed waiting shelter, short-term parking, accessible platform. No checked baggage.
- Nearby Attractions: Mountrail County Historical Museum (located at the depot).
Stanley Amtrak Station: Distances to Key Locations
| Destination | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Minot, ND | 50 |
| Williston, ND | 70 |
| Bismarck, ND | 150 |
| Grand Forks, ND | 270 |
| Minot Int’l Airport (MOT) | 50 |
| Williston Basin Int’l Airport (XWA) | 70 |
6. Williston, ND (WTN)
As the westernmost Amtrak stop in North Dakota, Williston is another significant city driven by the state’s oil and gas industry. It’s a key connection point for travelers heading further west into Montana.
- Station Address: 1 S Main St, Williston, ND 58801
- Services: Staffed station, checked baggage service, ticket office, waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, short-term and long-term parking, accessible platform.
- Nearby Attractions: Lake Sakakawea, Lewis & Clark State Park, Fort Buford State Historic Site.
Williston Amtrak Station: Distances to Key Locations
| Destination | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Stanley, ND | 70 |
| Minot, ND | 140 |
| Bismarck, ND | 200 |
| Grand Forks, ND | 340 |
| Williston Basin Int’l Airport (XWA) | 5 |
| Minot Int’l Airport (MOT) | 140 |
Traveling Amtrak in North Dakota: What to Expect
- Book in Advance: Especially for sleeper cars or during peak seasons, tickets can sell out quickly.
- Check Schedules: The Empire Builder is a long-distance train, and delays can occur. Always check Amtrak’s real-time tracker on your travel day.
- Onboard Experience: Enjoy comfortable seating in coach, or opt for a private roomette or bedroom. The Sightseer Lounge car offers panoramic windows, perfect for watching the prairie roll by. Dining options range from casual cafe fare to full-service meals (depending on service class and time of day).
- Scenery: Be prepared for endless horizons, stunning sunsets, and glimpses of wildlife. The route skirts the edge of the Little Missouri National Grassland in western North Dakota, offering a taste of the badlands.
- Luggage: Coach passengers can bring two personal items and two carry-on bags. Checked baggage is available at staffed stations.
Amtrak travel through North Dakota is more than just transportation; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to slow down, soak in the landscape, and connect with the heart of America’s northern plains. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider letting the train take the strain – the prairie awaits!