5.0
Pros: Was my daughters first train ride and she had a good experience. We are both happy with traveling by train we’d do it again. Tips: We were in general board section although some food and snacks available, recommend bringing own.
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2 trains operate daily from Seattle to Spokane. The train trip from Seattle to Spokane is usually about 11 hours and 33 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can get you there in as little as 7 hours and 42 minutes.
Distance | 228 mi (368 km) |
Fastest train | 7h 42m |
Lowest price | $48.00 |
Trains per day | 1 |
Most frequent service | Amtrak |
Train lines | 2 |
Average score for trains from Seattle to Spokane
(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
Pros: Was my daughters first train ride and she had a good experience. We are both happy with traveling by train we’d do it again. Tips: We were in general board section although some food and snacks available, recommend bringing own.
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Seattle to Spokane was $106.85. Tickets for this route are somewhat expensive, given the distance between Seattle and Spokane. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Spokane if you book your train tickets at least 4 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $21.37.
For the next 30 days, the cost of a one-way train trip from Seattle to Spokane will range from $75 to $424. If you're planning to travel by train to Spokane in the upcoming week, the cheapest train ticket from Seattle you can find in the next 7 days is $75. Be sure to book your trip in advance as train ticket prices typically increase as your travel date approaches.
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Seattle to Spokane. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 4 days before departure, you can save around $21.37. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
2 train services operate from Seattle to Spokane. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
---|---|---|---|
Amtrak | 1 | 14h 31m | $112.14 |
Amtrak Empire Builder | 1 | 7h 43m | $254.24 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Seattle to Spokane every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $48.
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.
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
The distance between Seattle and Spokane is approximately 228 miles, or 368 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 11 hours and 33 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 7 hours and 42 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.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Seattle to Spokane on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Wednesday. Wednesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Seattle at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00pm. 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 Seattle twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Spokane faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Spokane to Seattle.
In the heart of the Pacific Northwest lies Seattle, a city that seamlessly blends urban vibrancy with natural beauty. Known as the “Emerald City,” Seattle offers a dynamic blend of outdoor adventures, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving tech industry.
Visitors have a few options to reach the city. Located south of downtown, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the Pacific Northwest. King Street Station, in the heart of downtown Seattle, is a transportation hub for ground travel. It also serves as a terminal for Sounder commuter trains and the Amtrak Cascades.
Seattle’s iconic waterfront is not only a picturesque sight but also a vital transportation hub. The Washington State Ferries provide an enchanting journey across the Puget Sound, connecting Seattle to the surrounding islands and peninsulas. As the ferries glide through the glistening waters, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the city’s skyline against the backdrop of the majestic Olympic Mountains.
Further enhancing Seattle’s connectivity is King Street Station, a historic railway hub that effortlessly marries old-world charm with modern transportation needs. Amtrak services from this station offer an unforgettable way to explore the region, with routes that traverse lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and charming towns.
Seattle is a leader in sustainability and green initiatives, with a strong commitment to preserving its natural beauty. The city’s public transportation, bike lanes, and green spaces make it easy to explore while minimizing environmental impact.
Known as the “Lilac City” for its abundant springtime blooms, Spokane is a vibrant gem in the heart of the Inland Northwest.
Surrounded by rolling hills and evergreen forests, Spokane boasts a stunning natural backdrop. Riverfront Park, in the heart of downtown, offers scenic river views, a historic carousel, and the iconic Spokane Falls. Nearby, the Centennial Trail invites hiking, biking, and jogging along the Spokane River.
Spokane’s commitment to arts and culture is evident in its numerous galleries, theaters, and performance spaces. The historic Bing Crosby Theater and the modern Fox Theater offer captivating performances, from Broadway shows to local productions, enriching the city’s cultural tapestry. As a hub for education and innovation, Spokane is home to several universities and research institutions. Gonzaga University, in particular, fosters a sense of community and academic excellence, contributing to the city’s intellectual vibrancy.
Spokane takes pride in its lilacs, and the annual Lilac Festival celebrates these flowers with a grand parade and community events. The city also hosts Hoopfest, one of the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, drawing athletes from across the nation.
The nearby Spokane Valley and surrounding wilderness provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Skiing, hiking, and water sports are easily accessible, making Spokane an ideal base for year-round adventures.
Image credit: SounderBruce
Link to image attributionKing Street Station is the main station for Amtrak train service and Greyhound bus service in Seattle, with connections to local public transit like the Link Light Rail and King County Metro at the International District/Chinatown station one block away. Located near downtown Seattle in the trendy Pioneer Square neighborhood, King Street Station opened in 1906 and continues to impress travelers with its restored Italian architecture and Venetian-style clocktower. King Street Station has on-site Amtrak staff, restrooms, and vending machines, and while there are no restaurants in the station, several nearby coffee shops and eateries make it easy to fuel up before your trip.
King St Station - 303 S Jackson St
Pacific Central Station
10251 St Edwards Dr
110 10th Ave SW
1301 W 11th St
401 Harris Ave
500 13th St SE
Union Station
Image credit: Paul Sableman
Link to image attributionImage credit: Nick Bramhall
Link to image attributionThe Spokane Intermodal Center on 1st Ave is Spokane’s primary hub for bus and train service. The city’s original train station was built at this location in 1891, and the red brick building has since been remodeled and expanded to include intercity bus service, too. Today, passengers can catch the iconic Amtrak Empire Builder train along its route from Chicago to Seattle or Portland, or hop on a FlixBus US or Jefferson Lines bus heading to destinations throughout the Northwest. The station is just north of I-90 and centrally located in Spokane, within a mile of the sprawling Riverfront Park, the Spokane Convention Center, and Gonzaga University.
Spokane Intermodal Center - 221 W 1st Ave
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