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When it comes to the Midwest, enjoying your time here is often seasonal.
But what is not up for discussion are the two most beautiful cities in the region.
No offense to Nebraska and Iowa, but you guys have some work to do…
If a ghost were to give you two guesses, chances are you’d choose Chicago as one of them.
The other?
It’s a vibrant capital, split between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona – and it’s a foodie’s dream.
Who would ever turn down an endless helping of cheese? Not us…
Amtrak may be the most reliable name for train travel in the US, but there has been a glaring omission on the route map for quite some time.
That’s about to change with Amtrak’s latest announcement that these two beautiful Midwestern cities will now be directly connected, saving travelers from TSA headaches, annoying train transfers, and a longer-than-necessary road trip through Chicago’s snail-paced traffic.
Introducing Amtrak’s most exciting new route in years
Air routes are hot and heavy, but train routes, especially in the United States? Not so much.
Despite rail travel making a comeback in the form of an LL Cool J, America’s rail network still can’t match that of Europe and Asia, making news of anything new feel like gold in the travel world.
Of course, Amtrak had a very successful revival last year in more ways than one record number of riders and the revamped return of their Mardi Gras route, which traverses some Southern baffles, including New Orleans and numerous beach towns in Mississippi.
Since then, ‘Mardi Gras’ has received rave reviews. That’s why Amtrak expects the same outcome in its next major venture:
A pioneering route between Chicago and Madison.
Why this is a game changer:
- Madison currently does not have direct Amtrak rail service, making this an important upgrade
- Easier connection from center to center
- No airport hassle
- No busy roads (the train will be faster than the current running time)
- No more hitching a ride from Columbus, WI (the closest stop to Amtrak’s current route)
Is Madison really worth a visit?
When we say Madison is “beautiful,” we mean it!
Upon arrival, you will be greeted with perhaps the most beautiful domed Capitol building in all of America, surrounded by a glittering isthmus of lakes, green parks and vibrant neighborhoods.
As a three-season destination (winters are harsh), there are few bad times to visit, making the city’s more than 600 restaurants more appealing to sit on a terrace to take in the view and enjoy everything from cheese curds and bratwurst washed down with a local brew.
Not to be cheesybut Wisconsin’s capital lives up to every bite. Moreover, there is a range of surprising attractions, including free museums.
But the truth is, Madison is a place where you’ll arrive hungry and leave happy, whether you’re browsing the bustling farmers markets or making your way through the many breweries, giving nearby Milwaukee a run for its money.
Does Chicago live up to the hype?
We’ve all been to an important place where we wonder, “Why would anyone ever come here?”
The proof is in the pudding deep-dish pizza that Chicago indeed lives up to the hype, and then some.
In fact, Chicago is more popular than ever. As the Midwest’s one and only metropolis, travelers flock in search of world-class food, enchanting architecture, and lakeside thrills (don’t tell Dave Matthews).
Chicago really has everything. Whatever type of traveler you are, you will find your niche. Plus, it’s often considered more affordable and less crowded than New York City, despite channeling the aura of a megacity packed with urban delights.
Amtrak’s full route and launch date
Amtrak currently operates direct service from Chicago to Milwaukee, and the expanded route would continue to Madison with a handful of underrated stops along the way.
Our local source claims the following will be Amtrak’s full route once it launches at an undisclosed date in 2030:
- Chicago
- Milwaukee
- Pewaukee
- Water City
- Madison
This route is expected to be operational twice daily.
Because federal funding remains an obstacle, the exact stations have not yet been determined. 2030 remains the best estimate for full operation, as Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari said this exciting new route “aims to launch the line as early as the 2030s as possible.”
Additionally, Amtrak is undergoing a overhaul of the fleetso you can expect a more modern onboard experience when it comes time to book your ticket.
