Sleeper Check in for Capitol limited in Chicago

[Steve4031]

I know they do take dinner reservations in the lounge when you walk in the door to check in. When do they start doing this?

If I check into the lounge at noon, would I get dibs on an earlier time?

Last time I checked in for the cap I got there about 5 pm and did not get first seating. I'm thinking connecting passengers from 8,6 and 4 may have gotten there first.

 

[the_traveler]

I'm not sure if they do that anymore.

During my misadventure last month, I did not officially check into the ML for 30. (I was checked in for 50 though.) When I returned to the ML, I used the rest room and when I came out, they called for boarding for 30! The LSA came thru (while I was on the train), and I could have gotten 1st seating if I wanted! (I took 2nd seating instead, to allow me to cool down.)

Perhaps others who did check in know.

 

[Steve4031]

Oh and u switched to 30?

 

[the_traveler]

Yes! See my trip report (day 8) for more information.

 

[Lakeshore]

When we went through, they had a list at the desk with a certain amount of slots for each time. We got the last two slots for the first seating, about 90 minutes before departure, so I assume it is first come, first served.

 

[Steve4031]

When we went through, they had a list at the desk with a certain amount of slots for each time. We got the last two slots for the first seating, about 90 minutes before departure, so I assume it is first come, first served.

That is what I remembered. When did you travel? While not the end of the world to get a later seating, I prefer the first seating to get in and out so I can enjoy the rest of the evening in my roomette.

 

[Steve4031]

Yes! See my trip report (day 8) for more information.

Ok, what a story. From the Penthouse to the outhouse in 30 minutes or less. LOL.

One time I rode the Cap from Chicago to Pittsburg to connect to the Pennsylvanian. Dinner was slow, but the crew was at least nice. Just disorganized. I was hoping the Cap would run late so I could get a quick breakfast before getting off in Pittsburg. The train was late enough to attempt this. I knew I was wrong, but I just had to get that french toast. As the train passed by Conway yard, I entered the diner, and ordered. Once the order was in I advised them that I was getting off in Pittsburg. They were not happy. They offered a to go bag, but I insisted on eating in the diner. Breakfast was served as the train entered the bridge that is right before the station. I was finished by the time the train entered the station. Needless to say, that crew was not happy with me. LOL

On my trip back from the east coast, I again took the Capitol Limited. Gues which crew I had . . .

 

[Lakeshore]

When we went through, they had a list at the desk with a certain amount of slots for each time. We got the last two slots for the first seating, about 90 minutes before departure, so I assume it is first come, first served.

That is what I remembered. When did you travel? While not the end of the world to get a later seating, I prefer the first seating to get in and out so I can enjoy the rest of the evening in my roomette.

It was about two weeks ago.

 

[Steve4031]

Thanks lakeshore

 

[Anderson]

They take reservations, but while I believe they do 16 seats per round in the diner (at least for the first seating, I believe), only 12 are open in the ML.