Hop on the Empire Builder in Minot and See the U.S. by Train

Minot is a town in North Dakota that offers a mix of a suburban and small-town environment. There's a beautiful Scandinavian Heritage Association Park, and the city is home to Duane Carlson Stadium as well. The population is approaching 48,000, and there are plenty of thriving local businesses here, as well as many of the largest national chain restaurants and retailers.  

Still, there is more to Minot than one might initially observe. There's plenty to do and see here. It's also an ideal location to begin a truly memorable trip! Minot is a major stop for Amtrak's Empire Builder route that opens up travel to as far east as Chicago and all the way through the western United States. 

How Amtrak Ended Up in Minot 

The Great Northern Railway opened Minot Station in 1905. It started as a small brick building with a gabled roof. Over the years, it underwent several renovations. Today, the original brick façade and gabled roof are restored, and it also offers an impressive waiting room with plenty of seating.

The location could not be more convenient, as it is adjacent to the public library and within walking distance of City Hall in downtown Minot. The Minot Station serves as a major Amtrak stop for the Empire Builder.  

The Empire Builder began its service in June of 1929 and just celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2019. It provides daily service to 20 cities from Minot, North Dakota, to Seattle, Washington. The Empire Builder stops at six other towns in North Dakota. Minot is by far the busiest, with refueling and a crew change taking place.

Visit the Railroad Museum in Minot 

The city of Minot takes great pride in its relationship with Amtrak and rail travel. The Minot Railroad Museum opened in August of 1986 and features artifacts, cabooses, and model trains. In recent years, they have also added more digital exhibits. They also boast a kids' center and event space for parties. 

You can visit the museum on Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. through August 30. If you're visiting with a group, they do ask that you make an appointment in advance. The museum is open year-round, but the hours do vary seasonally, so always check the website to plan your visit. 

The cost of admission is $5 for adults and $4 for kids. 

Sights and Cities to Visit on the Empire Builder 

Traveling by train is an adventure in itself. The gentle rocking of the rails forces you to slow down and relax. Many people enjoy visiting with other passengers in the sightseeing car. Whether you're lounging in one of the comfortable coach seats or have a private compartment, you'll have access to the classic dining car and amenities such as showers. 

The train stops in several major metropolitan locations, but the most spectacular part of train travel is the sights you'll see along the way. Some of the most stunning sights to watch for on the Empire Builder include: 

• Jaw-dropping views of the Rocky Mountains and Middle Fork of the Flathead River 
• Mississippi River views on eastbound trains 
• An incredible journey through the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound as you approach Seattle 
• The Columbia River Gorge in the Portland segment 
• The longest railroad tunnel in the U.S. while approaching Seattle. 
• The charm of a small-town ski village in Whitefish, Montana 

You can choose a single stop for a brief trip or commit to ride the route as far east and west as the rails will take you. A cross-country train ride allows for infinite customization and creates many opportunities for lifelong memories.  

Popular stops on the Empire Builder 

The Empire Builder stops in several major cities with airport access, such as Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis-St. Paul. Minot, Whitefish, Seattle, and Portland. Several of these stops warrant a day or two of vacation or even an extended vacation.  

Think about taking a leisurely trip to one of these top spots: 

• Chicago with its museums, Art Institute, Lake Michigan shoreline, and renowned jazz and blues scene 
• Milwaukee, home of the Brewers, Pabst Mansion, and an impressive waterfront 
• Wisconsin Dells, with everything you need for the perfect rural vacation, from cheese curds to the Wisconsin Deer Park 
• Minneapolis-St. Paul with its chain of lakes, Twins and Vikings, Guthrie Theater, and the world-famous Minnesota Orchestra 
• West Glacier for amazing scenery 
• Whitefish, Montana for its small-town charm and amazing ski slopes 
• Leavenworth for old-world charm that will make you feel like you traveled to Europe 
• Portland with its amazing bookstore, microbreweries, and edgy eateries 
• Seattle with mountain ranges, Elliot Bay, Pike Place Market, and so much more 

With the convenience of rail passes and significant discounts for seniors, students, children, and military, traveling by train is the perfect way to explore the country. All of the locations listed above have natural and cultural sights worth exploring. Of course, a trip to any new city is an opportunity to try an array of eateries, coffee shops, wineries, and breweries. 

The Plaza Apartment Homes Are Your Next Home in Minot 

If you're already a resident of Minot or planning a move, The Plaza Apartment Homes may be the perfect place for you. You can choose from one-, two-, or three-bedroom floor plans, all with names inspired by local birds. All the units come with energy-efficient appliances, high ceilings with fans, in-home washers and dryers, and personal outdoor space thanks to a private patio or balcony. You will also enjoy amenities such as the on-site, professional fitness center and our impressive community clubhouse. 

The Plaza Apartment Homes is the perfect place to unwind after a long day or when coming home from your train travels. Best of all, our professional staff is here to help you with maintenance concerns or to give you advice on making the most of Minot. Contact us today to schedule a visit and discover the home where you belong at The Plaza Apartment Homes.