Is the Acela train worth it?

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.



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The key thing to know is that Acela tickets are considerably more expensive and trains stop at fewer stations. Plus, Acela trains aren't much faster than the Northeast Regional unless you are traveling a long distance. Despite these drawbacks, there are a few Acela perks.

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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.

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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.

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So how are they different? The key thing to know is that Acela tickets are considerably more expensive and trains stop at fewer stations. Plus, Acela trains aren't much faster than the Northeast Regional unless you are traveling a long distance. Despite these drawbacks, there are a few Acela perks.

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The Regional takes about 30 minutes longer but at a third of the price, it's a win in my book. There weren't any standout amenities that set Acela business class apart from the Northeast Regional for me, besides the speed of the train and the updated seats.

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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.

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Each passenger may only bring a total of 2 carry-on items onboard the train; each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and 28 x 22 x 14 inches.

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The new Acela fleet utilizes cutting-edge safety systems to provide real-time monitoring, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. Additional safety systems include handles integrated into the seatbacks to aid customers as they walk through the train and grab bars for stability.

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Before the first train was built, the Federal Railroad Administration required it to meet crash safety standards that senior Amtrak officials considered too strict. That forced the manufacturers, Bombardier Inc. of Canada and GEC Alstom of France, to make the trains twice as heavy as European models.

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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.

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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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The Amtrak Acela Express While the rides are quick on the Acela, there is no shortage of views! Travelling in to/out of Philadelphia will give riders beautiful views of the Philly City skyline and if you can depart around sunset – you can watch the sun go down over the city, right from your seat on the train!

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On average, Acela and Northeast Regional trains departing New York on the weekend have 15 percent better on-time performance than trains leaving on weekdays. The majority run on-time more than 80 percent of the time — that figure jumps to 90 percent for morning Acela trains.

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It's a very bumpy ride and many times the train must change tracks because freight trains take precedence. The freight train tracks are not smooth at all. Sleeping car rooms are expensive and very small. It's hard to fit one suitcase in your room.

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Train travel is much simpler, as there is no TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR equivalent for Amtrak. Amtrak trains offer private rooms, more legroom, more space from your fellow passengers, more comfortable seats, and more food & beverage options.

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Train travel is much simpler, as there is no TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR equivalent for Amtrak. Amtrak trains offer private rooms, more legroom, more space from your fellow passengers, more comfortable seats, and more food & beverage options.

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You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars. Personal food and beverages are allowed in the upper level of Superliner Sightseer Lounges.

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Amtrak offers Wi-Fi onboard 29 of its 39 trains, which accounts for the vast majority of annual ridership. Most service is concentrated on the East Coast, Great Lakes, and some parts of California.

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Probably not. The flight itself is much shorter than the train ride, but the Acela spares you the airport hassles. Between driving, flying and train between Boston and NYC, I usually opt for train. I used to do day trips to NYC for work and they always flew me.

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Acela trains are the fastest in the Americas, reaching 150 miles per hour (240 km/h) (qualifying as high-speed rail), but only over 49.9 miles (80.3 km) of the 457-mile (735 km) route. Washington, D.C. Overhead line; 25 kV 60 Hz AC (Boston–New Haven)

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September 2019, customers will benefit from continuous travel, new amenities. WASHINGTON – Amtrak today announced the launch of Acela Nonstop, a new offering with direct service between Washington Union Station (WAS) and New York Penn Station (NYP), beginning Monday, Sept. 23, with tickets now available.

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