| I take the Capitol Limited(Chicago <-> DC) most of the time when I go back to home. Pros: + Comfort. You basically get a first class seat with cafeteria access. You can also purchase a whole room, but is less affordable than a plane ticket if you're traveling alone. + Regularity. The train leaves at the same time everyday both from DC and Chicago. + It reaches parts of the country not easily accessed by an Airport. If you need to visit someone in middle of nowhere USA, Amtrak might just be a better option. + Price. Book it in advance and you'll be saving ~$200 in airfare. + No TSA to check your luggage, some trains allow you to bring your bike, and there's always plenty overhead space. + Easy access to outlets for charging devices. Cons: + Long! Chicago to DC takes 17 hours. Chicago to San Francisco can take two days. SW Pennsylvania is snaking route that feels like forever. It's really a question of how much you value your time. + No WIFI on most trains, so bring a book if you cannot scrum up a hotspot. |
17 hours is fairly quick. But the timing is fantastic. Amtrak leaves after work in Chicago and arrives at hotel check-in time in DC the next day