Is Amtrak or Acela better?


Is Amtrak or Acela better? 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.


Are drinks free in Acela first class?

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.


Is it worth upgrading to business class on Amtrak?

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.


Why does Acela go so slow?

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.


Why is Acela so heavy?

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.


Is Acela business class only?

All Acela trains now offer seat selection in Business and First Class, offering more peace of mind knowing your seat is waiting for you.


Are drinks free on Acela?

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.


Can you take luggage on Acela Express?

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.


Is Acela faster than regular train?

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.


Is there WiFi on Acela trains?

Acela was the first train to offer the amenity. According to Amtrak, passengers can now connect on more than 30 short-haul and long-distance trains across the country. The company plans to upgrade to 5G.


Do you tip Acela First Class?

Service Attendant All 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.


What is special about Acela?

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.


Is Acela more expensive than Amtrak?

So how are they different? The key thing to know is that Acela tickets are considerably more expensive and trains stop at fewer stations.


Is Amtrak Acela safe?

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.


Why Amtrak is better than flying?

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.