All Acela trains now offer seat selection in Business and First Class, offering more peace of mind knowing your seat is waiting for you.
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Amtrak Acela's business class tickets offer more plusher, wider seats than you'll experience in coach, but do not include a meal or in-seat service like first-class, roomette, and bedroom accommodations do.
Superior comfort, with more space and legroom than typical airline seating. With free WiFi, and power outlets at your seat it's easy to stay connected while traveling at speeds up to 150 mph.
We look forward to welcoming you in Acela First Class. Once onboard, you'll enjoy complimentary at-seat meal and beverage service provided by our onboard staff of First Class attendants. Selections include freshly prepared chef inspired entrees as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Acela First Class also offers seat selection, allowing for seamless boarding while taking the guesswork out of finding your seat. Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation, but you may change it to an available seat of your choosing at no additional cost.
Yes, it saves about 25-35 minutes versus a regional train, but calling it a high-speed train is a bit of a misnomer because the tracks and infrastructure prohibit Amtrak from reaching peak speeds for much of the journey. For first class passengers, I do think the Acela splurge is worthwhile.
There's little doubt that first class offers a great deal more luxury, but it comes with a hefty price tag. While business class may not be as luxurious as first class, it's far nicer than economy, and surprisingly comfortable.
Roomy, Comfortable SeatingConference tables, with seating for two or four, are available. A luggage tower and oversized overhead bins enable easy storage of carry-on luggage. Complimentary WiFi is also available. Amtrak Guest Reward members traveling in Acela First Class receive 50% point bonus.
Amtrak Business Class offers many amenities over coach class including extra legroom, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and a 25% point bonus through Amtrak Guest Rewards.
Service AttendantAll tips are always appreciated, but, unless something special is done for you (luggage porterage, a wake-up, etc.)there is no need to tip for routine services included in the ticket.
Why is the Acela so slow? The Acela can do 135 mph up to New York, but it averages about half that speed. That's because the rails are more than 100 years old in places, and thus too frail for anything faster. Amtrak also shares them with slower freight and local commuter lines.
With 95% of the trainset components being made in America, our new Acelas have generated over 1,300 new jobs in over 90 cities across the United States. The new Acela will operate at top speeds of 160 mph vs.today's fleet, which operates at top speeds of 150 mph.
We realize that you have many options when traveling in the Northeast, but the answer should be clear: Acela is the smarter and more efficient way to go, saving you time, money and hassles when traveling from DC to New York and Boston.
Exclusive Access to Station LoungesAcela First Class service starts with access to station lounges in several northeast major stations — Boston - South Station, New York - Moynihan Train Hall, Philadelphia - William H Gray III 30th Street Station and Washington, DC - Union Station with WiFi available.