Wikipedia
The Borealis train, connecting St. Paul and Chicago, has surpassed all expectations. In just 11 months, it welcomed over 205,800 passengers. The service, launched in May 2024, was a joint venture between Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Together with the Empire Builder route, over 293,000 passengers used the trains between May 2024 and April 2025.
This remarkable 227% increase compared to the previous year marks a turning point for regional rail travel. The Borealis has become a preferred choice for those looking to avoid congested highways and airport lines.
Collaboration Fuels Borealis Success
Amtrak President Roger Harris credited the train’s success to strong teamwork. State and federal partnerships made it possible to connect key Midwest cities efficiently and safely. Borealis now stands as a model of what well-executed rail infrastructure can deliver.
The train offers daily departures—midday from St. Paul and morning from Chicago. It provides passengers with spacious seating, onboard dining, and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
Small Towns, Big Benefits
Borealis doesn’t just serve big cities. It also stops in smaller towns that had limited public transportation options before.
Now, these communities enjoy easier access to jobs, colleges, and tourist attractions. Minnesota Transportation Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger highlighted this impact. She emphasized that Borealis proves how essential public investment in transit is for statewide development.
Her Wisconsin counterpart, Kristina Boardman, shared similar sentiments. She noted that Borealis marked Wisconsin’s first passenger rail expansion in two decades. Early numbers show steady ridership growth, especially in less populated areas.
Midwest Rail Revival Gathers Momentum
Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi called Borealis a clear sign of increasing demand for regional rail. She added that Illinois is committed to exploring new service expansions in collaboration with other Midwest states.
The future looks bright for Borealis. Amtrak has seen ridership increase across almost every station served. More detailed data will be available once the final monthly reports come in.
A New Era for Midwest Travel
With rail travel gaining popularity, Borealis is helping reshape how Midwesterners move. It's offering a comfortable, scenic, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional travel methods.
Backed by strong inter-state cooperation and public support, Borealis is not just a train—it's a signal of what's possible when infrastructure meets demand.
As more people choose rail, the region could see even more routes, better access, and stronger community ties. Borealis has already proven that the appetite for rail is real—and growing fast.
