The Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Portland to Seattle by Train with Kids

Planning a trip from Portland, Oregon, to Seattle, Washington? Consider taking the train! Traveling by train, especially the Amtrak Cascades, offers a unique and relaxing experience, especially when traveling with children. Forget the stress of driving and embrace the scenic route. Here are essential tips for making your Amtrak journey with kids a smooth and memorable one.

Many children love the adventure of travel, whether it’s car rides, ferries, buses, or even long flights. But have you considered the charm and convenience of a train journey? Train travel can be an exceptional experience, offering comfort, space, and stunning views. For families in the Pacific Northwest, the Amtrak Cascades route between Portland and Seattle presents an excellent opportunity to explore this mode of transportation.

When a friend suggested a train trip from Portland to Seattle, the idea was immediately appealing. The bonus? It was a mother-daughter adventure waiting to happen! Train travel offers a fantastic alternative to driving, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery while your kids stay entertained.

Mother-Daughter Getaway: Portland to Seattle by Train

Embarking on a mother-daughter trip from Portland to Seattle via Amtrak Cascades is a fantastic way to bond and create lasting memories. Joining blogger friends and their daughters, the mission was simple: visit the American Girl store in Seattle. However, the journey itself turned into an unforgettable experience.

The Amtrak Cascades route stretches from Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, BC, making it a popular choice for weekend getaways and business commutes. Many have suggested that the train is an ideal way to travel to Seattle with kids, offering a stress-free alternative to driving.

Why Choose Amtrak with Kids?

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but Amtrak makes it easier. The train offers ample space for children to move around, comfortable seating, and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery. Here are just a few reasons why Amtrak is a great option for families:

• Spacious Seating: More room to stretch out and relax compared to cars or planes.
• Onboard Entertainment: Kids can read, play games, or watch movies.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy the beautiful Pacific Northwest landscape.
• Convenient Amenities: Access to restrooms, food, and Wi-Fi.

Understanding Train Schedules and Costs

Amtrak Cascades trains typically depart from Portland approximately five times a day. It’s always a good idea to check the latest schedule for the most up-to-date departure times. Ticket prices for the Portland to Seattle route are generally affordable, making it an attractive option for families.

For a one-way trip from Portland to Seattle, adult tickets range from $30 to $50, depending on the time of departure. Child tickets (for ages 2-15) typically cost between $15 and $25. Children under the age of two can ride for free, making it an even more budget-friendly option for families with young children.

Choosing the Right Seating on Amtrak Cascades

Selecting the right seating arrangement can significantly enhance your Amtrak experience, especially when traveling with kids. Amtrak Cascades offers different seating options to cater to various needs and preferences.

If you’re traveling with a group of four or more, consider reserving seats in the Reserved Group section in Coach class. These seats are arranged in a configuration of four, facing each other around a community table. This is an ideal setup for families, as it provides a convenient space for kids to rest their books, dolls, electronics, and snacks. The seats offer ample legroom and recline for added comfort, and there’s plenty of overhead storage for bags and coats.

On the return trip from Seattle to Portland, consider upgrading to Business Class. While it costs a bit more, Business Class offers several advantages, including extra legroom, plush seats, priority boarding, and discount coupons for the Bistro car. This option is particularly appealing for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

Delicious Dining: Food Options on Amtrak Cascades

One of the highlights of traveling on Amtrak Cascades is the onboard dining experience. The Bistro car offers a diverse menu with options for both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

The menu includes alcoholic beverages for adults, as well as a variety of snacks and entrees, all reasonably priced. On a recent trip to Seattle, a shared meal included Gourmet Mac & Cheese, Ivar’s Clam Chowder, an apple, apple juice, and a cheeseburger, totaling just over $20.

Relax and Enjoy the Scenic Views

One of the most compelling reasons to choose the train over driving is the opportunity to relax and enjoy the journey. The Portland to Seattle route offers stunning views of the Pacific Northwest landscape, allowing you to sit back and soak it all in without the stress of driving.

Take advantage of the train’s free WiFi to get some work done, read a book, listen to music, or simply gaze out the window and appreciate the natural beauty. The three-and-a-half-hour trip provides a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Living in the Pacific Northwest offers access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Train travel provides a unique opportunity to appreciate this natural beauty without the distractions and stress of driving, traffic, and weather concerns.

Navigating Seattle with Kids

Once you arrive in Seattle, getting around is easy. The light rail system connects the train station to various parts of downtown, making it convenient to reach your hotel and other attractions. Many of Seattle’s popular destinations, restaurants, museums, and hotels are within walking distance, a short taxi ride, or accessible via light rail or bus.

For instance, the Mayflower Park Hotel is just a mile from the train station. With children and luggage, taking the light rail is a cost-effective and efficient option, costing less than $3 per person (kids ages 5 and younger ride for free).

Keep in mind that relying on public transportation is most effective if you plan to stay within the downtown area. Finding inexpensive and reliable transportation from downtown Seattle to the suburbs can be challenging.

Final Thoughts on Amtrak with Kids

Taking Amtrak with kids is a fantastic way to travel between Portland and Seattle. The comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and scenic views make for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re planning a mother-daughter getaway or a family vacation, Amtrak offers a stress-free alternative to driving.

On a recent trip, leaving a day earlier than planned meant taking a taxi back to the train station, costing just $8 including tip. Riding Amtrak Cascades in Business Class on the return trip to Portland was a delightful experience.

Even when things go wrong, Amtrak’s customer service shines. After inadvertently leaving chargers in the outlet next to the seats, a quick call to Amtrak’s lost & found resulted in the items being located and held at the Portland Union Station. Amtrak’s policy of contacting customers within 24 hours of reporting a lost item demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Overall, Amtrak provides a wonderful travel experience. It’s a convenient, comfortable, and scenic way to travel, making it an excellent option for families looking to explore the Pacific Northwest.

More Family Travel Tips

• Seattle American Girl Adventure
• Utah Olympic Park
• Jacksonville, Oregon
• Family Fun at the Oregon Zoo

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. We were provided with complimentary train travel for review purposes, but all opinions expressed are our own.