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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from La Crosse to Leavenworth. Traveling by train from La Crosse to Leavenworth usually takes 40 hours and 5 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can make the trip in 37 hours and 14 minutes.
| Distance | 1435 mi (2309 km) |
| Fastest train | 37h 14m |
| Lowest price | $292.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Which train should you take from La Crosse to Leavenworth?
2 train services operate from La Crosse to Leavenworth. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 1d 18h 56m | $339.00 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 1 | 1d 13h 14m | $292.00 |
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 La Crosse to Leavenworth every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $339.
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 La Crosse and Leavenworth is approximately 1435 miles, or 2309 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 40 hours and 5 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 37 hours and 14 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.
Trains departing from La Crosse to Leavenworth tend to have the most passengers on Tuesday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Tuesday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Tuesday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs La Crosse at 8:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00pm. 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 La Crosse 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 Leavenworth 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 Leavenworth to La Crosse.
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.
Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a truly unique destination since it looks exactly like a Bavarian mountain village. Most buildings are alpine-style lodges, and restaurants and cafes serve delicious German-style beer and food. The city is a year-round tourist destination not just for its German-themed events such as Oktoberfest, but also for its gorgeous outdoor scene. Visitors can explore a reindeer farm, hike in Icicle Gorge, wander through Eagle Creek, and enjoy the Leavenworth Ski Hill in winter. There's also the famous Nutcracker Museum, which has over 6,000 nut-cracking tools.
Leavenworth's closest airport is the Pangborn Memorial Airport, about 45 minutes away by car. The Amtrak Empire Builder has service from Philadelphia, Seattle, Portland, and more for more direct access to the town. Buses service the town from across the nation, including from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
Station Information
Where is the train station in La Crosse?
Image credit: Adam Moss
Link to image attributionMain departure 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.
All train stations in La Crosse:
601 St Andrew St
Where is the train station in Leavenworth?
Main arrival station: Leavenworth
Leavenworth receives travelers from La Crosse at its two active train stations.
All train stations in Leavenworth:
Leavenworth
Icicle Station
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