Capitol Limited
Amtrak
Washington, D.C. - Pittsburgh - Chicago
The Capitol Limited service by Amtrak offers an unforgettable journey between Washington, D.C., Pittsbugh, Pennsylvania, and Chicago, Illinois. Experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, charming small towns, and hard-working cities along the way.
Relax in comfortable seating or private sleeping accommodations and indulge in amenities like a dining car serving delicious meals and a lounge where you can socialize and take in the views. Traverse historic landmarks and scenic landscapes as the train winds its way through the heart of Appalachian America. With the Capitol Limited service, Amtrak provides a convenient and memorable travel experience that combines the cultural heritage of the East Coast with the Midwest's charm.
18 hours
Trip Time
764 mi (1,230 km)
Trip Length
Daily
Frequency
Route Highlights
Washington, D.C.: The adventure begins in Washington, D.C., and as the train departs Union Station, passengers are treated to views of the Capitol Building and the National Mall's monuments. Don't miss the chance to explore these iconic landmarks before embarking.
Potomac River: After leaving D.C., the train travels along the scenic Potomac River, offering picturesque views of the waterway, cliffs, and historical sites, such as George Washington's Mount Vernon estate.
Rockville and Gaithersburg, Maryland: Passing through suburban Maryland, passengers can glimpse both urban development and areas of natural beauty, such as Seneca Creek State Park.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia: Historic Harpers Ferry provides a blend of Civil War history and stunning river vistas. The confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers is a particularly breathtaking sight.
Cumberland Gap: Travel through the Appalachians and the famous Cumberland Gap, known for its lush forested mountains, and as a gateway for settlers moving westward.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Along with Pittsburgh's cityscape, enjoy views of its famed bridges and rivers. The city's Golden Triangle, where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet to form the Ohio River, is particularly enchanting.
Cleveland, Ohio: Before reaching Cleveland, the train passes through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, filled with beautiful waterfalls, rolling hills, and scenic farmland.
Indiana Dunes: Witness the beauty of the Indiana Dunes along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. This stretch offers unique landscapes and ecosystems not typically seen elsewhere on the route.
South Bend, Indiana: Beyond the city and university life of Notre Dame, passengers are treated to views of the St. Joseph River, a hub for regional wildlife and greenery.
Chicago, Illinois: Arriving in Chicago, passengers can glimpse the stunning skyline, featuring iconic structures like Willis Tower and John Hancock Center. Explore Chicago's famed architecture, art, and food scenes at journey's end.