Key Highlights
Are you ready to see Wisconsin by train? Train travel is a good way to relax and enjoy the nice views in the Badger State. Here are some things you should know before you go:
- Wisconsin has many Amtrak stations. The Milwaukee Intermodal Station is the biggest one.
- Main train routes link Wisconsin cities with Chicago and cities in the Pacific Northwest.
- You will find stations with different services. Some have station staff and baggage service. Some have only the basic amenities.
- The Milwaukee Intermodal Station has full services like a ticket office and a waiting room.
- Many locations focus on making travel easy for all. They have features such as a wheelchair lift and help from station staff.
Introduction
Welcome to your 2026 guide for train travel in Wisconsin! Riding the train is a great way to get around. You can skip the traffic and enjoy the journey. Wisconsin has Amtrak stations that link small towns and big cities. This makes it simple to plan your next trip. Whether you need to get to work or just want to see new places, the state’s train routes offer an easy and comfortable way to go.
In this guide, you will find details about the big stations, top train routes, and important tips for your trip. This way, you can make the most of your time when you travel by train in Wisconsin.
Major Amtrak Train Stations in Wisconsin
When you ride the train in Wisconsin, you will see that the Amtrak stations are not all the same. Some are big, like the main one in Milwaukee, and these have more station staff to help you. At these bigger stations, you can find baggage service, ticket counters, and large waiting rooms.
But there are also many smaller Wisconsin Amtrak stations. These spots are not staffed and are simple platforms where you can have a fast and easy stop. They might not offer baggage service, but you still get the shelter and access you need to start your trip. Up next, you will find out what services you can get at major places like Milwaukee, and at smaller stops such as Tomah.
Milwaukee Intermodal Station: Location and Services
The Milwaukee Intermodal Station, located at 433 West St. Paul Avenue, is the state’s primary rail hub. You can’t miss its soaring glass-enclosed atrium. This fully staffed station is designed for your comfort and convenience, offering a large passenger waiting room and a full-service ticket office.
This station provides a wide range of services to ensure a smooth travel experience. Key features include:
- Checked baggage service and storage options
- Accessible platform, restrooms, and waiting room
- An available wheelchair lift and staff for passenger assistance
The station’s main services operate on a consistent schedule, making it easy to plan your visit. If you need help from the ticket office or want to check your bags, be sure to arrive with plenty of time before your departure.
| Service | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|
| Station Waiting Room | 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily) |
| Ticket Office | 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily) |
| Checked Baggage Service | 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily) |
Wisconsin Dells and Tomah Stations: Features and Highlights
Outside of Milwaukee, you can find smaller amtrak stations in Wisconsin that give you a simple and easy time. The Tomah station is one of these places. You will find it at the corner of North Superior Avenue and Washington Street. It sits inside a depot the area has had for many years. This wisconsin amtrak station does not have a staff working all day, but it is a good stop if you want basics when you travel.
You will not find a ticket office or baggage help here. Still, the Tomah station gives you what you need to get on your trip. These small amtrak stations in Wisconsin are just right for people who have their tickets ready and want to board a train. At Tomah, you can count on these basic amenities:
- A station building with a waiting room that is open every day from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- On-site restrooms and a water fountain you can use
- A wheelchair lift for anyone who might need help to board
A station like the one over in Wisconsin Dells gives about the same basic amenities. It makes for a good spot to get on your train. Don’t forget to check amtrak’s website to be sure about what your wisconsin amtrak station offers before you travel.
Wisconsin Passenger Rail Cities and Routes
Passenger rail in Wisconsin helps you get to many main spots in the state and outside it, too. Amtrak train routes make it easy to go back and forth between places like Milwaukee, Columbus, and Tomah. You do not have to worry about driving. This system is a key part of how people move around in the United States. It lets you travel to different cities nearby or far away.
If you want to take a short trip from a place next to the state or make a longer journey across the country, the rail system in Wisconsin will work well for you. In the sections below, we will tell you about the main Amtrak lines that go to and from Wisconsin cities. We will also point out some of the top trips you can take, for example, the busy path from Chicago.
Amtrak Lines and Schedules Connecting Wisconsin Cities
Two primary Amtrak lines run through Wisconsin, each serving different travel needs. The Hiawatha Service is a popular regional route, offering multiple daily departures between Milwaukee and Chicago. For longer journeys, the Empire Builder route travels across the country, connecting Chicago to the Pacific Northwest with stops in several Wisconsin cities.
These train routes provide reliable service to key Amtrak stations throughout the state. Schedules can vary, so it’s always best to check the official Amtrak website for the most current departure and arrival times when planning your trip. Having the latest information ensures you won’t miss your train.
The major routes connect a string of communities, making it easy to explore.
| Amtrak Line | Key Wisconsin Cities Served |
|---|---|
| Hiawatha Service | Milwaukee |
| Empire Builder | Milwaukee, Columbus, Wisconsin Dells, Tomah |
Popular Routes Including Chicago to Wisconsin
The rail line that connects Chicago, Illinois, to Wisconsin is one of the most used in the area. This way of travel is popular with people who commute every day and with those visiting for fun. With many trains leaving through the day, Amtrak lets you plan a quick trip or stay longer if you like.
Train travel from Chicago helps you get to some of the best places in Wisconsin. You do not need to drive your car. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. This also works well for a business trip or you just want to have a good time. It is easy to reach downtown at the Milwaukee Intermodal Station, which is one big reason people like this trip.
You can get to some great spots by train from Chicago, such as:
- Milwaukee, which is known for festivals, city fun, and breweries.
- Wisconsin Dells, which has many things to do for families and lots of natural beauty.
- Columbus and Tomah, which give you a look at small towns in Wisconsin.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you check out the train stations in Wisconsin, you get an easy and nice way to see more of the state. The busy Milwaukee Intermodal Station, along with the nice features in Wisconsin Dells and Tomah, shows that each station has something different that makes your ride better. The Amtrak lines that connect important cities make it simple for you to travel from Chicago to Wisconsin and other spots. If you plan your trip early, you will have a more smooth time. If you want to see more of Wisconsin by train, look at our resources for up-to-date schedules and the comforts at each spot. You can start your next trip today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Wisconsin cities offer passenger rail service?
Amtrak offers train service for people in many cities across Wisconsin. You can get on a train in Milwaukee, Sturtevant, Columbus, Portage, Wisconsin Dells, Tomah, and La Crosse. These train routes link Wisconsin to big places like Chicago. The trains also go to other areas in the north part of the United States, reaching all the way to the Pacific Northwest.
What amenities are available at Columbus, WI Amtrak station?
The Columbus, WI, Amtrak station is not staffed, and it offers just the basic amenities. There is an enclosed waiting area, so you can sit inside while you wait. You will not find services like checked baggage at this station. But, there is a wheelchair lift for people who need it. If you need more details, check the Amtrak website before you go.
Where can I find the Wisconsin Amtrak train service map for trip planning?
The best way to see a full map of Wisconsin Amtrak service is by going to the official Amtrak website. You can use their interactive map to check all the routes and plan your trip. If you need more help, just talk to the station staff at a station with staff. You can also call Amtrak’s customer service at 1-800-USA-RAIL.