A: On double-decker trains, upstairs spaces (coach seats and some of the sleeper rooms) are quieter, because they are farther from the rails. In terms of noise from other passengers, Amtrak's conductor declares quiet hours from around 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., and lights are dimmed overnight.

Excellent question! The short answer is yes, Amtrak does turn the lights off in most of the train at night, but the specifics depend on where you are on the train and the type of service.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. In Your Sleeping Car Accommodation (Roomette, Bedroom, etc.)

• You have full control. The lights inside your private room have switches, and you can turn them on or off whenever you like. The attendant will also dim the hallway lights at night.

2. In Coach Class Seats

• Yes, the main overhead lights are turned off. This is the standard practice on overnight routes to allow passengers to sleep. The train crew will make an announcement and then dim or turn off the overhead lights in the coach cars, usually between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM (times can vary).
• Personal reading lights often remain available. Many Amtrak coach seats have individual reading lights that you can control, allowing you to have a small light without disturbing your neighbors.
• Some dim ambient lighting is kept on. For safety and navigation, very low-level aisle lighting or floor lighting is almost always left on.

3. In Common Areas (Sightseer Lounge, Dining Car, Cafe)

• These areas typically close for the night. The Sightseer Lounge car and the Cafe car will have their hours posted and will close, with lights dimmed. The Dining Car closes after the last dinner service.
• They may remain accessible with dim lighting. You might still be able to sit in a closed lounge car, but the main lights will be off, creating a quiet