Capitol Limited – Amtrak Train Route Guide

The Capitol Limited is a long-distance Amtrak train route connecting the Midwest with the U.S. capital region. Operating between Chicago and Washington, D.C., this overnight service provides an important rail link through the Appalachian region and several major eastern cities.

Route Overview

• Start: Chicago, Illinois
• End: Washington, D.C.
• Approximate distance: ~764 miles
• Typical travel time: about 17–18 hours
• Service type: Long-distance, overnight

The Capitol Limited is commonly used by travelers moving between the Midwest and the East Coast, as well as passengers making intermediate journeys along the route.

States and Major Stops

The route passes through the following states and regions:

• Illinois
• Indiana
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia
• Maryland
• District of Columbia

Key stations served by the Capitol Limited include:

• Chicago, IL – Chicago Union Station
• Cleveland, OH
• Toledo, OH
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Harpers Ferry, WV
• Rockville, MD
• Washington, D.C. – Washington Union Station

Browse the complete station directory here:
Train Stations in the United States & Canada

Who Uses the Capitol Limited?

• Passengers traveling between Chicago and Washington, D.C.
• Travelers heading to Pittsburgh and Cleveland
• Long-distance rail travelers seeking overnight service
• Passengers connecting to Northeast Corridor services in Washington

Onboard Classes & Accommodation

Coach Class

• Reclining seats suitable for overnight travel
• Overhead storage for carry-on luggage
• Access to café car food services

Sleeper Accommodations

• Roomettes and Bedrooms for overnight comfort
• Meals usually included for sleeper passengers
• Private cabins with attendant service

To understand sleeper room types and what is included, see:
Amtrak Sleeper Class Guide

Dining & Onboard Services

• Café car serving snacks and beverages
• Flexible dining service for sleeper passengers
• Restrooms in every coach
• Power outlets available at many seats (equipment varies)

Wi-Fi service is limited and should not be relied upon for the full journey.

Scenery and Travel Experience

While the Capitol Limited is often chosen for practical travel, it also passes through scenic regions, including:

• River valleys and rolling hills in Ohio and Pennsylvania
• The Appalachian Mountains
• Historic towns along the Potomac River near Harpers Ferry

Connections with Other Amtrak Routes

• Chicago – connections to major long-distance routes such as the California Zephyr, Empire Builder, and Lake Shore Limited
• Washington, D.C. – direct connections to the Northeast Corridor and other eastern services

Booking the Capitol Limited

Tickets can be booked using:

• Amtrak official website
• Amtrak mobile app
• Station ticket counters and kiosks

Prices vary based on travel dates, demand, and accommodation type. Sleeper accommodations are limited and often sell out early.

For booking tips and fare guidance, see:
Amtrak Ticket Booking Guide

Travel Tips for Capitol Limited Passengers

• Consider booking a sleeper for overnight comfort
• Pack essentials in a small overnight bag
• Bring snacks and offline entertainment
• Allow flexible arrival times due to potential delays

More general travel advice:
Amtrak Travel Tips

FAQs

Does the Capitol Limited operate daily?
Yes, the Capitol Limited typically runs once daily in each direction.

Are meals included?
Meals are usually included for sleeper passengers. Coach passengers can purchase food from the café car.

Is checked baggage available?
Checked baggage is available at many major stations, but not all stops. Check baggage options during booking.

For more Amtrak-related questions, visit:
Amtrak FAQ

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Note: The Capitol Limited is part of the nationwide Amtrak network. For a full overview of routes and services, visit:
Amtrak – America’s National Train Service.