The holiday season is always a busy time on the Capitol Corridor, so we’ve prepared tips to help you plan for low-stress holiday travel and a comfortable ride.
TICKETING
Book tickets online at capitolcorridor.org in advance to avoid waiting in line at the station. Also, many connecting buses require reservations, and they sell out fast.
Keep in mind that Capitol Corridor operates on its Weekend/Holiday schedule on Thanksgiving Day and the day after, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
TAP2RIDE
Did you know you can use contactless payment on Capitol Corridor trains? The Tap2Ride Pilot Program allows riders to tap in and out with their physical debit or credit card, making travel more seamless and flexible. The program also offers discounts and rewards. Register your card to become a tapper and learn more here.
BIKES/SCOOTERS AND LUGGAGE
If you have a bike, secure it in the bike car storage area, or one of the lower-level bike racks. Each Capitol Corridor train has two “bike cars.” The “bike cars” are designated by a decal — generally the car furthest away from the locomotive and the second car away from the locomotive.
Make sure your bike is not blocking an aisle, and that it is locked (ideally with a U-Lock for maximum security). If you are not able to secure your bike either to a rack or in a storage area, ask a conductor for assistance. Please note that bike storage is not guaranteed. Learn more about our bike policy.
Familiarize yourself with Amtrak’s Baggage Policy. You may bring two pieces of luggage and one carry-on personal item, totaling up to 150 pounds, for free. Excess baggage will cost $20 per item.
Keep aisles and other seats clear by putting smaller items either under your seat or in the overhead compartment. Trains are particularly crowded during Thanksgiving week, so adhering to our One Ticket, One Seat policy helps ensure that everyone has a place to sit.
PET POLICY
Pet parents – cats and dogs under 20 lbs. can travel on Capitol Corridor for $29 one-way! If your furry family member fits the bill, take them on your next holiday adventure. Check out Capitol Corridor’s Pet Policy and learn how to book your next trip.
STATION AND BOARDING
Get to the station early! During the busy Thanksgiving/Holiday travel period, it can take longer to find parking and stand in line for tickets, if you didn’t book in advanced. Don’t miss your train!
When waiting for the train, stay behind the yellow line. While others board the train and bus, be patient and don’t crowd the doors.
If you move to a different seat on the train, bring the seat check that the conductor placed above your seat with you— that way, the conductor knows you’ve already been checked in.
Sit back & enjoy the ride! Take advantage of our free Wi-Fi and Café Car, featuring light meals, snacks, soft drinks, wine, and more.
DEALS AND PROMOTIONS
Save 15% for Students, Seniors, Veterans and much more! Be sure to visit our deals and promotions page to learn more about our discounts.
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY TRAVEL
For more information, check out our First-Time Riders Guide! Thanks for riding Capitol Corridor. Happy Holidays!