Amtrak's new Borealis train service between St. Paul and Chicago is a resounding success

Amtrak's new train service between St. Paul and Chicago is a resounding success so far.

Since the Borealis' inaugural trip in late May, they're averaging about 600 riders a day, far outpacing the route's annual projections.

Brian Nelson with the passenger rail advocacy nonprofit All Aboard Minnesota, says the traveling experience of riding the rails outweighs a car trip.

"You have to stop, you have to maybe get something to eat, maybe get fuel," Nelson says. "You know, freeways are laden with semis these days. Traffic can get backed up easily. So the time that it takes on the train in our estimation is a far more pleasant way to travel."

Nelson says the data shows that for passenger rail service, this is proof that 'if you build it, they will come'.

"If these ridership numbers hold up, the annual ridership will be way above what anybody projected," Nelson explains. "So, we're very excited. We're very thrilled. It just proves that if you add rail passenger service people will use it."

Amtrak officials say with many college markets along the route, they're confident Borealis will continue to perform well when students and staff head back to the classroom this fall.

“Amtrak and our state partners have always believed the Twin Cities-Milwaukee-Chicago corridor was a great one with tremendous opportunity,” said Ray Lang, Vice President, Amtrak State Supported Service. “The ridership numbers we have seen so far confirm our belief and we expect this trend to continue as the service matures and we head into the peak summer travel season."

Right now, a one-way ticket between St. Paul and Chicago costs $41. The trip takes about seven hours, just slightly longer than it would take in a car depending on traffic.

"The number of rides in the first month clearly demonstrates the need for this route,” said Nancy Daubenberger, Commissioner, Minnesota Department of Transportation. “We are optimistic numbers will remain strong and the Borealis service will continue to provide a safe, sustainable and accessible transportation option.”

Borealis trains originate from St. Paul at midday and from Chicago in the late morning. The trains offer Coach and Business Class in addition to a café car featuring regional items.

There are several stops between St. Paul and Chicago, including Winona, La Crosse, the Wisconsin Dells, Milwaukee and more.