Staples Amtrak Stations and Routes

The Staples Amtrak Stations is an essential rail facility within central Minnesota that facilitates the convenience of long-distance traveling and connecting into the region. One of the primary stops on Amtrak’s Empire Builder route, the Amtrak Train Station Staples offers consistent transportation, basic facilities, and comfortable boarding service. Situated within a historic rail community, the Staples Minnesota Amtrak Train Station supports both locals and visitors with efficient schedules, parking options, and accessible facilities. Be it business or leisure, it offers a convenient gateway to major cities and nearby attractions across the northern United States.

What is the Staples Amtrak Station Address?

The Staples Amtrak Station is located at:

First Avenue N.E. and Fourth Street N.E., Staples, MN 56479

This station serves as a key stop on Amtrak’s Empire Builder route, connecting travelers between Chicago and Seattle/Portland while offering convenient access to downtown Staples.

Amtrak Staples Stations Map

The map provides a clear view of the Staples station’s location, nearby streets, and landmarks, helping you plan your trip and understand its connection to the Empire Builder route.

Maps are regularly updated to reflect service changes and station details. For the latest schedules, routes, and service updates, always check Amtrak’s official website or mobile app.

Staples Amtrak Stations

Staples is served by the historic Amtrak station on 1st Avenue, connecting the city to major destinations along the Empire Builder route. The most prominent stops accessible from Staples include:

• Chicago
• Minneapolis–St. Paul
• Spokane
• Seattle
• Portland

Staples’ station offers essential services such as waiting areas, ticketing, and passenger assistance. For the latest schedules, routes, and service updates, always check Amtrak’s official website or mobile app.

Staples Amtrak Station – Address and Contact Details

The Staples Amtrak Stations stands as a vital rail gateway in central Minnesota, marrying small-town charm with long-distance connectivity. Travelers often search for “Where is the Amtrak Station in Staples Minnesota”, drawn by its convenient placement and historic character. To support seamless planning, the Staples Amtrak Stations Address is elegantly detailed in the table below, offering a refined quick-reference guide that enhances navigation and enriches the overall travel experience with clarity and ease:

Category	Overview
Amtrak Station in Minnesota	Amtrak Staples Station
Station Code	SPL
Address	First Avenue N.E. and Fourth Street N.E.Staples, MN 56479
Contact Info	1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
Ticketing Operation Hours	24*7 Online Portal
Services and Facilities	Waiting Rooms, Restrooms, Parking, Accessibility, Bicycle Racks, Museum
Official Website	Amtrak Staples Station
Official YouTube Channel	Amtrak Staples Station YouTube
Official Twitter Handle	Amtrak Twitter Handle
Official Facebook	Amtrak Facebook ID
Official Instagram	Amtrak Insta Handle

Train Routes and Schedule Information at Staples Amtrak Stations

The Staples Minnesota Amtrak Train Station is serviced by Amtrak’s fabled Empire Builder, with daily eastbound and westbound service. You can count on the early morning hours of the Amtrak Staples MN Schedule for dependable departures in both directions, both for long-distance and regional travelers. Here are the key route and schedule details:

Eastbound Service – Toward Chicago

• Daily Arrival: Early morning stop at Staples.
• Origin: Seattle/Portland; trains merge before arrival in Minnesota.
• Route Highlights: Passes through Minnesota → Wisconsin → Illinois.
• Destination: Chicago Union Station.
• Ideal For: Passengers headed to Midwestern cities, along with connecting national routes.

Westbound Service – Toward Seattle/Portland

• Daily Arrival: Stop at Staples early morning.
• Origin: Chicago Union Station.
• Route Highlights: Continues across North Dakota → Montana → splits westward.
• Final Destinations: Seattle, Washington & Portland, Oregon (after the route splits).
• Best For: Those headed toward the Pacific Northwest or stunning cross-country tours.

Why the Staples Station Is Significant

• Reliable daily service both ways.
• Convenient timing for long-distance travel.
• Access to one of Amtrak’s most scenic transcontinental routes.

Amtrak Staples Minnesota Train Station is a crucial stop on the Empire Builder route, offering reliable daily service to both the east and west. From early morning departures to easily accessible transfers to larger cities such as Chicago, Seattle, and Portland, this station is well-positioned for efficient travel, both regionally and over long distances, serving as an essential portal for rail travelers throughout the northern United States.

How to Check Real-Time Arrival and Departure Schedules at Staples Station

It is indispensable for passengers navigating an unstaffed facility like the Amtrak Train Station Staples to check schedules of real-time arrival and departure at the Staples (SPL) station. As the station utterly relies on digital tools for operational updates, travelers need official resources from Amtrak to access correct Amtrak Staples, MN Schedule and information about the live timetable.

To check accurate Staples Amtrak Train Timings, follow these steps:

Use the Official Amtrak Website

• Website: Amtrak Official Website
• Go to the Amtrak Train Status page.
• Enter “Staples, MN (SPL)” or train numbers 7 and 8 on the Empire Builder route.
• Choose your travel date to see real-time arrival, departure, and delay information.
• This platform remains the most accurate source for station-level tracking.

Use the Amtrak Mobile App

• Website: Amtrak Mobile App
• Download the app from your device’s app store.
• Go to “Train Status” and type in SPL or the corresponding train number.
• Get immediate alerts about delays, schedule changes, or track adjustments.
• Ideal for travelers needing mobile, on-the-go notifications.

Contact Amtrak through Phone

• For automated or agent-based schedule information, call 1-800-USA-RAIL. 
• Useful for those passengers without internet access. 

With these official tools, passengers are able to effectively track real-time train activity and stay updated on changes at Staples Station for smooth and well-timed travel.

Staples Amtrak Station Map and Layout

The Staples Minnesota Amtrak Train Station is a historic, unmanned station along the Empire Builder route of Amtrak. Knowing the map and layout helps travelers get around the station with ease, since there are no staffed ticket counters or customer service on-site. The Staples Amtrak Stations Map typically gives an idea about the station building, main entryway, platform access, areas for parking, and ADA-compliant features so passengers can easily tell where to board, wait, or park.

Station Feature	Description
Station Building	Historic brick depot offering limited waiting area; unstaffed facility.
Platform	One ground-level platform serving Empire Builder eastbound and westbound trains.
Track Layout	Single through-track adjacent to the platform for seamless boarding.
Parking	Free short- and long-term parking directly beside the station.
Entry Points	Main entrance accessible from 4th Street NE; simple walkway access.
Accessibility	ADA-compliant pathways and platform access for mobility-assistance needs.

It’s a pretty straightforward station layout: one through-track, one boarding platform, a simple parking lot, and a small depot structure that may be open for waiting during specified hours. Given the compact nature of the site, advance map review almost ensures ease of navigation, particularly for early morning or late-night departures.

Services and Passenger Amenities at Staples Amtrak Stations Minnesota

The SPL station in Staples, MN, on Amtrak, has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restroom. However, passenger amenities are generally limited. Among the services available at the station include long-term and overnight parking-both of which have certain security features attached to them. Ticketing and baggage services are not handled at the station, but online or over the phone.

Station facilities

• Waiting Room: A wide and spacious seating area for travelers. Open daily at 12:45 AM – 4:30 AM.
• Restrooms: Wheelchair accessible restrooms are available.
• Accessibility: This is an accessible station with an accessible passenger loading area, parking lot and restroom.
• Parking: Long-term and overnight parking are available; cameras and staff on location during peak periods. Pre-booking is advisable.

Services

• Ticketing & Baggage: The services are not available at the station. You have to handle these transactions online or via phone.
• Customer Care: The station office may be contacted at +1-877-673-0126 to assist with ticket replacements, questions about baggage, and loyalty program details.
• Accommodations for People with Disabilities: Available by contacting the station’s office at.

Security and Baggage Guidelines at Staples Amtrak Station

Compared to airport security, Amtrak’s security procedures are far less formal. There are usually no standard metal detectors or full-body scanners at the Staples Amtrak Stations. Security measures are mostly layered and less invasive.

Security Systems

• Amtrak Police and K-9 Units: The Amtrak Police Department is present at stations and on trains and will oftentimes conduct random patrols, sometimes with K-9 units.
• Random Screenings: Passengers and their personal items are subject to random, unannounced screenings or swabbing for explosive residues. Passengers who refuse to consent to security procedures will be denied access to the train.
• Identification: A valid photo identification card (driver’s license or passport) is always to be carried with you, as staff may perform random ticket- and identification checks on board the train.
• The Staples station has surveillance cameras and a well-lit area for the safety of passengers.

Baggage Guidelines

Once you arrive at the Staples train station, you won’t be able to check any baggage; rather, you will need to take all your belongings on-board yourself. Keep in mind that it is solely your responsibility to lift your bags onto the train and put them in the appropriate overhead compartments or underneath your seat. 

• Carry-on Bag Limits

You may bring the following items onto the train with you for no charge:

• one small personal item up to a maximum of 25 lbs. (12 kg) with overall dimensions not exceeding 14” x 11” x 7”; Examples are a handbag, backpack, purse, and/or laptop case.
• Two carry-on bags not exceeding 50 lbs. (23 kg), and overall dimensions not exceeding 28” x 22” x 14”.

Restricted Items

• Some items, based on safety criteria, are not allowed as either carry-on or checked baggage. Some examples of these items are:
• Any device used for creating combustion like – gasoline, lighter, match, etc.
• A large, heavy, or sharp object like –  axe, sword, ice pick, etc.
• Chemicals that could become harmful through exposure or handling
• Batteries containing sulfuric acid that could leak or spill. Mobility device batteries used in wheelchairs and scooters.
• Firearms or ammunition must be checked in advance at any station with a checked baggage service.
• All items must be packed in durable, properly sized containers.

Parking Options Near Staples Amtrak Stations

Parking is available both on-site at the Amtrak Staples Mill Road station, which has a paid lot with short-term and long-term spaces, and at several free lots nearby, including a municipal lot in Ashland and a park-and-ride lot. If you want free parking, you can choose between the municipal lots in Ashland, where you have to sign up for more than 24-hour parking; the free park-and-ride lot behind Dunkin’ Donuts.

Parking on-site at the station

• Cost: The daily fee is about $7.
• Details: A small lot with both short-term with approximately 10 spaces and long-term with approximately 37 spaces parking.
• Accessibility Some accessible parking spaces near the station entrance.

Free parking options

• Ashland Municipal Lots: Free to park in but you must register with the town if you are leaving your car for over 24 hours.
• Park & Ride Lot: Free and reasonably safe, behind Dunkin’ Donuts.
• Commuter Lot at Glenside and Crockett: free, but it is roughly a 1,000-foot walk to the station.

Amtrak Staples Station Lost and Found Services

The Staples Amtrak Station is unstaffed; there is no office or personnel at the station to contact regarding lost items. Amtrak manages all lost and found reports centrally. In the case of losing an item on the train or at the Staples station, you will be required to report it to the National Lost and Found of Amtrak.

How to file a lost item report

• Online: The fastest and most reliable way is filling out the online lost item report on Amtrak’s official website. You will need a description of the item, details of your trip, including date and train number, and your contact information.
• Phone: You can also report a lost item by calling the Amtrak customer service line at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245).

The recovery process

• Item search: Once you’ve submitted your report, the Amtrak staff looks for the item.
• Note: Found items will be returned if an Amtrak representative can identify the owner and make contact to arrange a return. Retrieval options include coming to a staffed station to pick the item up or having it shipped for a fee.
• Item retention: Amtrak usually retains items found on their facilities for a limited period of time-often up to 30 days-prior to being discarded or donated.

Hotels Near Staples Amtrak Station Minnesota

Hotels near the Amtrak Station Near Staples Minnesota provide convenient lodging for travelers who come into town by train and connect from nearby airports. Many guests traveling from Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD) to Staples Amtrak Station look forward to accommodations within a short drive, including locally owned inns, budget-friendly motels, and comfortable chain hotels. These properties provide essential amenities, easy highway access, and proximity to dining options, making them ideal for both short stays and regional travel connections:

Hotel Name	Distance from Station	Features / Amenities	Avg. Price (USD)
Americas Best Value Inn Staples	0.3 miles (5 min walk)	Budget hotel, free Wi‑Fi, free breakfast, 40 rooms	From $60
Love Hotels Staples by OYO	0.3 miles	Free Wi‑Fi, free parking, fitness center, pet‑friendly	$72
Timberlake Hotel	0.5 miles	Indoor pool, spa, fitness center, golf nearby, lounge	$120–150
Eastwood Inn	1 mile	Free Wi‑Fi, parking, budget option	$75–90

Public Transit and Local Transportation from Staples Station

Public transportation from, or local transportation around, the Amtrak Station Near Staples Minnesota is limited due to its unstaffed nature, planning ahead is a necessity. Since Staples Amtrak Train Timings often include early morning and late-night arrivals, passengers should make prior transportation arrangements before arriving at the station. Key options include:

• Taxis and Car Services: Providers such as William Slater’s Taxi, Grab-A-Cab, and Brainerd Area Taxi & Delivery serve the region. Early reservations are strongly recommended, and for those arriving early or in off-peak times.
• Rideshare Availability: Uber/Lyft service may be available in the vicinity of Staples, but is spotty and undependable at times.
• Intercity Buses: Jefferson Lines has stops in Staples and Brainerd, with connections to larger cities; schedules need to be checked in advance. 
• Rental Cars : No car-rental offices are located at the station; passengers must make arrangements for vehicles through Brainerd firms. 
• Private Transportation: Many travelers going from Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport to Staples Amtrak Station make the journey by pre-arranged rides, friends, or family. 

Without on-demand transit or local service, passengers should plan their transportation in advance of arrival. Making transportation arrangements in advance is highly recommended to ensure a seamless, hassle-free onward passage from Staples Station.

Ticket Booking, Cancellation, and Rescheduling at Staples Amtrak Station

The Staples Amtrak station, SPL, has no staff on location for ticketing or customer service. All bookings, cancellations, and rescheduling need to be done through official Amtrak channels.

Ticket booking

• Website: Ticket Reservation
• Online: Tickets are available 24/7 online through the Amtrak website.
• Mobile app: Book your tickets at any time via the official Amtrak Mobile App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Phone: You can book tickets over the phone by calling Amtrak customer service at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245).
• At a staffed station: You can go to any staffed Amtrak station to purchase tickets from the ticket agent or the Quik-Trak kiosk.

Cancellation and rescheduling

Website: Cancellations, Rescheduling and Refunds

The policies and fees to change or cancel a ticket are dependent upon the fare type you purchased.

• Fare types:

• Flexible fares: fully refundable with no cancellation fees, even after departure. A 20% refund fee is deducted if the passenger is a “no-show”.
• Value fares: These are refundable up to 48 hours prior to flying. There is a 20% refund fee if flights were cancelled less than 48 hours in advance.
• Saver fares: These are not refundable after 24 hours from booking but can be exchanged for an eVoucher for future travel.

How to manage your ticket

• Online: To change or cancel your reservation, log in to the “My Trips” section on Amtrak.com or the Amtrak Mobile App.
• Phone: For assistance, customers can contact customer service at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245).

Important to know

• You must cancel or modify your ticket prior to the scheduled departure of the train to be eligible for a refund or eVoucher, or you will forfeit the ticket’s value. The exact process and specific terms can be reviewed on the Amtrak website.

Accessibility Features at Staples Station – ADA Services

Although unstaffed, Staples, Minnesota Station (SPL) includes a number of features to accommodate passengers with disabilities per ADA requirements.

Available ADA Features at Staples Station:

• Accessible Entrance: The station has an accessible entrance and a level, obstacle-free path from the park-and-ride lot to the platform.
• Wheelchair Lift: Station-based mobile wheelchair lift available to aid passengers with mobility impairment in getting on/off train, as the platform is low-level.
• Accessible Parking: The adjacent free parking lot includes designated accessible parking spots located close to the station entrance for easy access.
• Accessible Restrooms: Restrooms in the station are adapted for travelers with reduced mobility.
• Accessible Waiting Room: The enclosed waiting room is spacious and accessible.

Conclusion

The Staples Amtrak Stations is a lifeline to travelers in providing comfortable rail travel, both for locals and visitors, due to its reliability of services, facilities, and connectivity. Staples Minnesota Amtrak Train Station provides smooth and comfortable travel for passengers that include real-time schedules, parking, and access. The Amtrak Station Near Staples Minnesota continues to be an important, fully equipped entry point for regional and national travel through central Minnesota.

FAQs on Staples Amtrak Stations and Routes

These FAQs are designed to help travelers easily navigate the Amtrak stations in Staples, and provide essential details to enhance the passenger experience.