Happy Anniversary, Borealis!
May 21, 2025 marks the Amtrak Borealis one-year anniversary of service between Saint Paul and Chicago. With nearly 200,000 riders in the past 12 months, Borealis trains are by far surpassing goals. “We couldn’t be more pleased with Borealis success this past year,” stated Chris Meyer, Chair of the Great River Rail Commission, a leading voice on passenger rail in Minnesota. “Borealis provides comfortable, affordable travel to great destinations. It is so gratifying to see so many people take advantage of this service.”
The anniversary recognition events in the station cities of Red Wing, Winona, and La Crosse will vary, but may include proclamations, giveaways, and small receptions prior to passenger embarkings.
Borealis doubles the daily passenger rail capacity from Saint Paul to Chicago, complementing the Amtrak Empire Builder, giving riders more options for departure and arrival.
Representatives from station cities, local, and regional governments from Saint Paul to La Crosse meet quarterly to discuss ways to promote passenger rail in their local communities.
“We believe the continued success of the Borealis train demonstrates demand for further investment in faster, more frequent passenger rail service.” Meyer said. “If you support passenger rail, help us to continue to fill these trains by sharing information about Borealis with friends and family online and in-person, and keep riding Borealis.”
The Great River Rail Commission is one of the leading voices on passenger rail in Minnesota. Made up of officials from local and regional governments from Saint Paul to La Crosse, the Commission advocates for passenger rail options along the Mississippi River Route, connecting the Twin Cities with Milwaukee and Chicago. The Commission's long range vision is that the Borealis train, launched in 2024, demonstrates demand for further investment in faster, more frequent passenger rail service.
