If you’re planning travel during Minnesota’s MEA weekend, you’ll want to book your Amtrak Borealis tickets soon. This increasingly popular train route between Chicago and St. Paul has become one of the most sought-after ways to travel during the long October weekend.
What is MEA Weekend?
MEA (Minnesota Education Association) weekend falls on the third Thursday and Friday of October each year. Schools across Minnesota close for this teacher convention, creating a four-day weekend that families use for fall getaways. In 2024 and beyond, this tradition continues to drive significant travel demand throughout the Upper Midwest.
Why the Borealis is Selling Out Fast
The Borealis train sells out quickly during MEA weekend because families are looking for comfortable, affordable alternatives to driving. Since its launch in May 2024, this daily route has connected Chicago, Milwaukee, the Wisconsin Dells area, and the Twin Cities, making it perfect for fall tourism.
The timing couldn’t be better. October brings peak fall foliage along the route, and families appreciate not having to navigate highway traffic during one of the busiest travel weekends in the region.
Borealis Route and Schedule
The Amtrak Borealis makes one daily round trip between Chicago and St. Paul, stopping at several popular destinations along the way.
| Station | Departure Time (Northbound) | Departure Time (Southbound) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Union Station | 11:05 AM | – |
| Milwaukee, WI | 12:39 PM | 6:35 PM |
| Columbus, WI | 2:14 PM | 4:49 PM |
| Portage, WI | 2:32 PM | 4:28 PM |
| Wisconsin Dells, WI | 2:50 PM | 4:06 PM |
| Tomah, WI | 3:28 PM | 3:25 PM |
| La Crosse, WI | 4:23 PM | 2:24 PM |
| Winona, MN | 5:13 PM | 1:31 PM |
| Red Wing, MN | 6:16 PM | 12:25 PM |
| St. Paul-Minneapolis, MN | 7:38 PM | 11:05 AM |
Times are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current schedules on Amtrak.com.
Ticket Prices and How to Save
Borealis fares vary based on booking time and travel dates, but here’s what you can typically expect:
| Route | Coach Fare Range | Business Class Range |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago – St. Paul | $33 – $68 | $60 – $95 |
| Milwaukee – St. Paul | $29 – $58 | $52 – $82 |
| Chicago – Milwaukee | $25 – $42 | $45 – $65 |
| Wisconsin Dells – St. Paul | $20 – $45 | $38 – $68 |
Money-saving tip: Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for MEA weekend. Last-minute tickets can cost twice as much, and you risk the train selling out completely.
What Makes the Borealis Different
Unlike Amtrak’s long-distance trains, the Borealis is designed as a regional corridor service. That means:
- Newer, more comfortable seats with better legroom than older Amtrak coaches
- Large windows perfect for viewing fall colors along the Mississippi River
- Café car serving hot meals, snacks, and beverages
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the train (when available)
- Bike racks for cyclists wanting to explore Wisconsin or Minnesota trails
- No checked baggage hassles – just carry-on bags
Families especially love that kids can move around freely, visit the café car, and enjoy the scenery without being strapped into car seats for hours.
Best Stops for MEA Weekend Activities
Wisconsin Dells
Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” the Dells transforms into a fall destination with:
- Haunted houses and Halloween attractions
- Autumn boat tours through the spectacular rock formations
- Indoor waterparks (perfect if weather turns chilly)
La Crosse, Wisconsin
This Mississippi River town offers:
- Grandad Bluff for panoramic fall foliage views
- Riverside hiking and biking trails
- Charming downtown with local restaurants and breweries
Red Wing, Minnesota
A hidden gem for:
- Pottery shopping at Red Wing Stoneware and Pottery District
- Hiking Barn Bluff for incredible river valley views
- Exploring antique shops and cozy cafes
Tips for Riding the Borealis During MEA Weekend
Book early. MEA weekend is the busiest time for the Borealis. If you’re traveling with family, book 4-6 weeks ahead.
Arrive 30 minutes early. Chicago Union Station can be confusing for first-timers. Give yourself time to find the right track.
Pack snacks, but enjoy the café car too. While outside food is allowed, the café car serves surprisingly good pizza, burgers, and local craft beer.
Bring entertainment for kids. Wi-Fi can be spotty in rural areas. Download movies or bring books and games.
Sit on the river side. Heading northbound, sit on the left side of the train for Mississippi River views. Southbound, choose the right side.
How to Book Your Borealis Tickets
You can book Borealis tickets three ways:
- Amtrak.com – Easiest option with instant confirmation
- Amtrak mobile app – Convenient for managing reservations on the go
- 1-800-USA-RAIL – Helpful if you need assistance or have special requests
Join Amtrak Guest Rewards (it’s free) before booking. You’ll earn points toward free travel and get access to occasional promotional discounts.
Alternative Options if Borealis is Sold Out
If you can’t get Borealis tickets for your preferred MEA weekend dates, consider:
The Empire Builder: This long-distance train also runs between Chicago and St. Paul, with a more scenic route through northern Wisconsin. It’s pricier but includes sleeper car options for overnight travel.
Book different dates: Travel on Wednesday before MEA weekend or the Tuesday after. You’ll find better availability and lower prices.
One-way train, one-way drive: Take the Borealis one direction and drive the other. This gives you car access at your destination.
Why Families Choose Train Travel Over Driving
I’ve talked to dozens of families who’ve made the switch from driving to taking the Borealis, and here’s what they tell me:
“We spent the drive time actually enjoying each other instead of staring at traffic,” one Milwaukee mom shared. “My kids watched the scenery, we played card games in the café car, and I actually arrived relaxed.”
The environmental angle matters too. The train produces about 83% less greenhouse gas per passenger than driving the same route – something many families consider when making travel choices.
What to Know About Delays and Reliability
The Borealis has an impressive on-time performance record for a new route, typically arriving within 15 minutes of schedule about 75-80% of the time. However, freight trains have priority on some sections of track, which can occasionally cause delays.
Plan accordingly: Don’t book tight connections on the same day, especially if you’re catching a flight or attending a time-sensitive event.
Making the Most of Your Journey
The Borealis journey takes about 8 hours from Chicago to St. Paul. Here’s how to make those hours fly by:
- Morning departure means you’ll arrive in St. Paul for dinner, perfect timing to settle into your hotel
- Bring a good book or download podcasts about Upper Midwest history
- Strike up conversations in the café car – train travelers are usually friendly and full of travel tips
- Take photos at station stops – some stations like La Crosse allow quick platform photo ops
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 4-6 weeks in advance for the best selection and prices. Tickets typically sell out completely 1-2 weeks before MEA weekend.
No, seating is first-come, first-served in both Coach and Business Class. Board early if you want specific seats or want to sit together as a group.
Yes, the Borealis has bike racks with space for about 7 bikes. You must reserve bike space when booking your ticket ($20 fee). Bike spots sell out even faster than regular seats during peak weekends.
Business Class offers larger leather seats with more legroom, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, and seats in a quieter car. Coach seats are still comfortable but more compact, similar to domestic airline seats.
No, but the café car accepts credit cards and cash. Expect to pay $8-15 for meals, $3-5 for snacks, and $2-8 for beverages. You’re also welcome to bring your own food.
Amtrak will rebook you on the next available train or provide a full refund. During busy weekends like MEA, cancellations are rare but can happen due to severe weather or track issues.
Yes, small dogs and cats (up to 20 lbs including carrier) can travel for a $29 fee. Reserve pet space when booking, as only a few pets are allowed per train.
Final Thoughts: Is the Borealis Worth It for MEA Weekend?
Absolutely. The Borealis offers something special that driving simply can’t match – a chance to slow down, enjoy the journey, and arrive at your destination actually ready to start your vacation.
With MEA weekend falling during peak fall color season, the route along the Mississippi River becomes even more spectacular. Kids stay entertained, parents stay relaxed, and nobody has to argue about rest stops or navigate unfamiliar highways.
Just remember: book early, pack some patience for potential minor delays, and embrace the slower pace of train travel. Your MEA weekend adventure starts the moment you board.
Ready to book? Visit Amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL to reserve your Borealis tickets before they’re gone.
Have you ridden the Borealis? Planning a trip for MEA weekend? Share your questions or experiences in the comments below – I’d love to hear from fellow train travelers!