Amtrak’s Borealis service has carried more than 500,000 passengers between St. Paul and Chicago since it began in May 2024. The milestone suggests sustained demand for passenger rail on this Upper Midwest corridor, supported by Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois.
Amtrak reported the figure in its September 2026 passenger milestone announcement. It also said that more than 2.2 million passengers have travelled by Amtrak between St. Paul and Chicago since May 2024.
What the Borealis passenger milestone covers
The 500,000 figure applies to Borealis, which added another daily rail option between St. Paul and Chicago in May 2024. Amtrak runs the route alongside its state partners: the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Minnesota Department of Transportation and Illinois Department of Transportation.
The wider 2.2 million total is a separate, corridor-wide figure reported by Amtrak for travel between the two cities since Borealis launched. It should not be read as Borealis-only ridership.
For holidaymakers and independent travellers, another service can make a practical difference even on a familiar route. More departure options may help when flights are expensive, driving conditions are poor, or a Chicago city break has to fit around a fixed arrival or departure date.
Why the St. Paul–Chicago route matters
Chicago is a major rail hub, linking Midwest services with long-distance Amtrak routes. St. Paul is a key Twin Cities rail gateway, with the corridor passing through Wisconsin on its way to Chicago.
The service offers a car-free alternative to a long drive, airport transfers and the usual small joys of finding city-centre parking. It is particularly useful if you plan to spend most of your time in central Chicago, where a car can quickly become expensive luggage. Chicago was 63F with scattered clouds and 84% humidity in September 2026, so pack a light waterproof layer rather than assuming a mild-looking forecast will hold.
Once there, use our three-day Chicago itinerary to organise a short stay around major neighbourhoods, museums and waterfront time. Travellers keeping costs down may also find the city’s free things to do useful for a rail-based break. For something beyond the standard sights, see these unique things to do in Chicago.
If you are travelling in late September 2026, allow time and budget for Balloon Museum: EmotionAir at The Fields Studios, as ticketed events can make popular weekends busier. Those visiting during the autumn period can also browse fall activities in Chicago, while winter travellers may prefer our guide to things to do in Chicago at Christmas.
What travellers should check before booking
The announcement confirms the passenger milestone, but it does not set out a permanent fare level, timetable or seat availability. All can change by travel date, demand and planned engineering work.
- Check the departure station carefully. St. Paul and Chicago are the route’s named endpoints, but your most convenient station may differ if you are joining elsewhere.
- Compare departures for your actual date. A service is only useful if its timing works with hotel check-in, onward transport and booked activities.
- Book earlier for busy weekends and holidays. Popular travel periods can reduce the choice of fares and seats.
- Review baggage, accessibility and bike policies before purchase. These rules can vary by service and reservation type.
- Check for service alerts shortly before travel. Rail disruption, weather and infrastructure work can affect a planned journey.
Passengers using other Amtrak services may also want to check the carrier’s wider offers and partnerships. Amtrak has recently promoted new benefits for rail customers through its Amtrak and Away summer travel partnership, although you should confirm eligibility and terms directly with Amtrak before booking.
What happens next for Borealis
Amtrak’s announcement presents the half-million mark as evidence of continuing interest in the added service. The release does not announce a timetable change, route extension or new stations, so treat the milestone as a ridership update rather than an operational change.
The three partner states remain central to the route’s operation. State-supported passenger services can be shaped by funding decisions, infrastructure capacity and operating agreements, all of which can affect future service levels.
Frequently asked questions
When did Amtrak Borealis begin service?
Amtrak launched Borealis service in May 2024. The company’s reported passenger milestone covers travel since that launch.
How many passengers has Borealis carried?
Amtrak says Borealis has carried more than 500,000 passengers between St. Paul and Chicago. The company announced the figure in its September 2026 milestone release.
Is the 2.2 million figure for Borealis alone?
No. Amtrak reported more than 2.2 million passengers travelling between St. Paul and Chicago since May 2024, alongside the separate Borealis total of more than 500,000 passengers.
Where can I check Borealis fares and times?
Check Amtrak directly for the current timetable, fares, station details and service alerts for your travel date. Prices and availability can change before departure.
