Booking Amtrak In Wisconsin..!!
Wisconsin, with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and charming small towns, offers a fantastic backdrop for train travel. While the Badger State isn’t crisscrossed with train lines like some others, Amtrak provides vital connections, primarily linking Milwaukee and points west to Chicago and beyond.
Whether you’re planning a trip to the shores of Lake Michigan, exploring the state capital, or heading out to the Driftless Area, understanding Wisconsin’s Amtrak stations is key. This complete guide will walk you through each station, detailing its services and, critically, its connectivity to major cities and airports.
Let’s get rolling!
Understanding Wisconsin’s Amtrak Routes
Amtrak operates two primary services through Wisconsin:
- The Hiawatha Service: This popular regional route runs between Chicago Union Station and Milwaukee Intermodal Station, with a stop in Sturtevant. It’s known for its frequent daily departures and convenient travel times, making it ideal for commuters and weekend getaways.
- The Empire Builder: This long-distance route connects Chicago to the Pacific Northwest (Seattle and Portland), making several stops across Wisconsin. It’s a classic overnight train experience, offering Sleeper Car accommodations and a Dining Car for longer journeys.
Wisconsin’s Amtrak Stations: A Station-by-Station Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at each Amtrak station in Wisconsin, from south to west:
1. Sturtevant, WI (SVT)
Located just south of Racine, the Sturtevant station is a convenient stop for travelers coming from or going to southeastern Wisconsin, including Racine and Kenosha. It serves as an important gateway, especially for those who find Milwaukee Intermodal Station a bit further for their journey.
- Address: 9900 East Exploration Court, Sturtevant, WI 53177
- Trains Served: Hiawatha Service, Empire Builder
- Station Amenities: Enclosed waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, free parking.
- Notes: This station recently underwent significant renovations, offering a modern and comfortable experience.
Distances to Key Cities from Sturtevant:
| Destination | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee | 25 | 30-40 min | Easy drive north via I-94 |
| Racine | 10 | 15-20 min | Very close, easy access |
| Kenosha | 10 | 15-20 min | Very close, easy access |
| Madison | 75 | 1 hr 15 min | No direct train; drive or bus connection |
| Green Bay | 135 | 2 hr 15 min | Drive via I-94 N and I-43 N |
| Chicago, IL | 60 | 1 hr 15 min | Direct train connection with Hiawatha/Empire |
Distances to Major Airports from Sturtevant:
| Airport | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Mitchell Intl. (MKE) | 15 | 20-25 min | Direct commute via I-94 N |
| Chicago O’Hare Intl. (ORD) | 50 | 55 min – 1 hr 15 min | Drive or connecting bus from Chicago |
| Dane County Regional (MSN – Madison) | 75 | 1 hr 15 min | Drive only |
2. Milwaukee, WI (MKE) – Intermodal Station
The Milwaukee Intermodal Station is the busiest Amtrak station in Wisconsin and a crucial transportation hub. Located downtown, it connects Amtrak services with Greyhound buses, several intercity bus lines, and local Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) buses, making it an excellent gateway to the greater Milwaukee area.
- Address: 433 West St. Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203
- Trains Served: Hiawatha Service, Empire Builder
- Station Amenities: Large enclosed waiting area, restrooms, ticket office, Quik-Trak kiosks, vending machines, Amtrak baggage service, coffee shop/snack bar, car rental agencies nearby.
- Notes: Offers direct connections to the Milwaukee streetcar (The Hop) and is within walking distance to the Fiserv Forum, Marquette University, and numerous downtown attractions.
Distances to Key Cities from Milwaukee Intermodal:
| Destination | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | 78 | 1 hr 15 min | No direct train; drive or bus connection |
| Green Bay | 118 | 1 hr 45 min | Drive via I-43 N |
| Chicago, IL | 90 | 1 hr 30 min | Direct train connection |
| Wauwatosa | 8 | 15-20 min | Close suburb |
| Lake Geneva | 45 | 1 hr | Popular resort town |
Distances to Major Airports from Milwaukee Intermodal:
| Airport | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Mitchell Intl. (MKE) | 8 | 15-20 min | Accessible via bus, taxi, or rideshare |
| Chicago O’Hare Intl. (ORD) | 80 | 1 hr 20 min – 1 hr 45 min | Bus connections available or drive |
| Dane County Regional (MSN – Madison) | 78 | 1 hr 15 min | Drive only |
3. Columbus, WI (CBS)
A smaller, charming stop on the Empire Builder route, Columbus offers a peaceful gateway to south-central Wisconsin. It’s particularly convenient for those traveling to or from the Madison area without wanting to drive all the way to Milwaukee.
- Address: 350 North Ludington Street, Columbus, WI 53925
- Trains Served: Empire Builder only
- Station Amenities: Small enclosed waiting area, restroom. Unstaffed; tickets must be purchased in advance or from the conductor.
- Notes: This station is historic and has a classic small-town feel. Parking is available.
Distances to Key Cities from Columbus:
| Destination | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | 30 | 35-40 min | Good option for Madison travelers by car |
| Milwaukee | 60 | 1 hr | Drive via US-151 S and I-94 E |
| Wisconsin Dells | 35 | 40-45 min | Drive via US-16 W |
| Portage | 15 | 20 min | Drive via WI-16 E |
| Green Bay | 95 | 1 hr 40 min | Drive via US-151 N and US-41 N |
Distances to Major Airports from Columbus:
| Airport | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dane County Regional (MSN – Madison) | 30 | 35-40 min | Best option for air |
| Milwaukee Mitchell Intl. (MKE) | 60 | 1 hr | Drive only |
| Chicago O’Hare Intl. (ORD) | 105 | 1 hr 45 min | Drive only |
4. Portage, WI (POG)
Portage, nestled near the Wisconsin River and a short drive from the popular Wisconsin Dells, is another Empire Builder stop. It serves travelers looking to explore the natural beauty and tourist attractions of central Wisconsin.
- Address: 200 West Cook Street, Portage, WI 53901
- Trains Served: Empire Builder only
- Station Amenities: Small enclosed waiting area, restroom. Unstaffed; tickets must be purchased in advance or from the conductor.
- Notes: Ideal for accessing the Wisconsin Dells area without a long drive from Madison or Milwaukee.
Distances to Key Cities from Portage:
| Destination | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Dells | 15 | 20 min | Very close, easy access |
| Madison | 37 | 45 min | Drive via I-39 S |
| Milwaukee | 80 | 1 hr 20 min | Drive via I-94 E |
| Baraboo | 20 | 25 min | Home of Circus World Museum |
| Stevens Point | 50 | 55 min | Drive via I-39 N |
Distances to Major Airports from Portage:
| Airport | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dane County Regional (MSN – Madison) | 37 | 45 min | Good option for air |
| Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) | 60 | 1 hr 10 min | Smaller regional |
| Milwaukee Mitchell Intl. (MKE) | 80 | 1 hr 20 min | Drive only |
5. Tomah, WI (TOH)
Further west along the Empire Builder route, Tomah offers a stop for travelers seeking access to western Wisconsin’s outdoor recreation and smaller communities. It’s a stop on the way to La Crosse and Minnesota.
- Address: 201 West Milwaukee Street, Tomah, WI 54660
- Trains Served: Empire Builder only
- Station Amenities: Small enclosed waiting area. Unstaffed; tickets must be purchased in advance or from the conductor.
- Notes: Tomah is a quiet stop, serving a primarily rural area.
Distances to Key Cities from Tomah:
| Destination | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Crosse | 45 | 45-50 min | Drive via I-90 W |
| Eau Claire | 70 | 1 hr 15 min | Drive via US-12 N/WI-12 N |
| Madison | 90 | 1 hr 30 min | Drive via I-90 E |
| Rochester, MN | 80 | 1 hr 25 min | Drive via I-90 W |
| Sparta | 20 | 25 min | Bike trail town |
Distances to Major Airports from Tomah:
| Airport | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Crosse Regional (LSE) | 45 | 45-50 min | Best option for air |
| Dane County Regional (MSN – Madison) | 90 | 1 hr 30 min | Drive only |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul Intl. (MSP) | 150 | 2 hr 30 min | Direct train connection (next stop after La Crosse for Empire Builder) |
6. La Crosse, WI (LSE)
La Crosse, situated on the Mississippi River, is the westernmost Amtrak station in Wisconsin. It’s a significant stop for the Empire Builder, connecting this vibrant river city and the surrounding Driftless Area to Chicago and the Twin Cities.
- Address: 601 St. Andrew Street, La Crosse, WI 54603
- Trains Served: Empire Builder only
- Station Amenities: Enclosed waiting area, restrooms, ticket office, vending machines.
- Notes: The station is located near the university and downtown, offering good access to local attractions.
Distances to Key Cities from La Crosse:
| Destination | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winona, MN | 30 | 35 min | Across the river in Minnesota |
| Rochester, MN | 70 | 1 hr 15 min | Drive via US-14 W/US-61 N |
| Eau Claire | 90 | 1 hr 30 min | Drive via US-53 N |
| Madison | 135 | 2 hr 15 min | Drive via I-90 E |
| Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN | 165 | 2 hr 45 min | Direct train connection (next major stop) |
Distances to Major Airports from La Crosse:
| Airport | Approximate Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Crosse Regional (LSE) | 5 | 10-15 min | Very close, easy access |
| Rochester Intl. (RST) | 70 | 1 hr 15 min | Drive only |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul Intl. (MSP) | 165 | 2 hr 45 min | Direct train connection with Empire Builder |
Key Considerations for Amtrak Travel in Wisconsin
- Booking Tickets: Always book in advance, especially for the Empire Builder or peak Hiawatha times. You can book online at Amtrak.com, through the Amtrak app, or at staffed stations.
- Parking: Most Wisconsin Amtrak stations offer parking, often free for short durations or a fee for extended stays. Always check current parking information for your chosen station.
- Accessibility: All Amtrak stations and trains are generally accessible. If you require special assistance, notify Amtrak when booking your ticket.
- Baggage: Amtrak has generous baggage allowances, but be aware of limits and services (checked baggage is not available at all unstaffed stations).
- Madison Connections: Remember, Madison, the state capital, does not have an Amtrak station. Travelers to Madison will typically use the Columbus or Milwaukee stations and then connect via bus, taxi, or rideshare. Badger Bus offers frequent connections between Milwaukee Intermodal Station and Madison.
- Delays: While Amtrak strives for punctuality, freight train interference can sometimes cause delays, especially on the Empire Builder. Build in some buffer time if you have tight connections.
Embark on Your Wisconsin Rail Adventure!
Amtrak offers a unique and often relaxing way to experience the Badger State. From the bustling hub of Milwaukee to the tranquil stops along the Mississippi, train travel allows you to sit back, enjoy the scenery, and arrive refreshed. Use this guide to plan your next Wisconsin adventure by rail – happy travels!