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Trip Summary
There are 2 daily trains from Whitefish to La Crosse. Traveling by train from Whitefish to La Crosse usually takes around 27 hours and 11 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 1146 mi (1845 km) |
| Fastest train | 27h 11m |
| Lowest price | £120.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Whitefish to La Crosse?
In the last month, £120.00 was the average price of a train ticket from Whitefish to La Crosse. Tickets are generally somewhat expensive for this particular train route, which is to be expected given the long distance. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 8 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around £9.60 more than that for a same-day booking.
Monthly average prices
Which train should you take from Whitefish to La Crosse?
Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects Whitefish to La Crosse. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 1d 3h 11m | £127.20 |
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Whitefish and La Crosse is approximately 1146 miles, or 1845 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 27 hours and 11 minutes,
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Saturday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Whitefish to La Crosse. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Saturday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Saturday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Whitefish at 07:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 07:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Whitefish twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to La Crosse with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from La Crosse to Whitefish.
City Information
La Crosse
A busy college town blessed with lush and beautiful green zones, La Crosse is one of the best places to just chill out and unwind. The city's star attraction is the Grandad Bluff, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the Mississippi River. Hiking up the hill will certainly be a challenge, but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile. While staying in the city, don't miss out on the chance to go on a cruise aboard the La Crosse Queen, a replica paddle steamer, and unwind while enjoying the sunset. For some family fun, head over to the Children's Museum of La Crosse.
La Crosse does have a pretty reputable food scene, with a strong focus on beers and cheese curds. For an upscale dining experience with the best local dishes, The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern is a local favorite that has a stellar reputation. Or head to the Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery for a combination of good foods and drinks.
La Crosse is easily accessible by bus or train, and regional flights operate out of the La Crosse Municipal Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Whitefish?
Main departure station: Whitefish Cmnty Library
There is one train station in Whitefish.
All train stations in Whitefish:
Whitefish Cmnty Library
Where is the train station in La Crosse?
Image credit: Adam Moss
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: 601 St Andrew St
The La Crosse Amtrak Station is located in the city's Lower Northside neighborhood at 601 St Andrew St. The station was built in 1926, and even though it has undergone several renovations, many of the original elements – including the marble surfaces and wooden ticket counters – have been preserved. In fact, the station is on the National Register of Historic Places. The station serves as the only stop in La Crosse for Amtrak's Empire Builder train line. At the station, travelers can find a spacious indoor waiting area, as well as an information desk with brochures and guides for local attractions. In addition, since the station is located in a residential neighborhood, various restaurants and bars are in close proximity.
Train stations in La Crosse:
601 St Andrew St
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