Business vs. Coach on Amtrak: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
In Portland, business class passengers receive complimentary entry to Amtrak’s Metropolitan Lounge at the train station. St. Louis and Minneapolis-St. Paul both offer a free private waiting room to business class riders. In some of the busier stations, like New York’s Moynihan Train Hall, a business class ticket comes with the opportunity to purchase a lounge day pass. Paying extra for lounge entry might not sound like a great perk, but business class ticket holders are the only passengers allowed to buy access to the lounges, which usually come with complimentary snacks, spacious waiting areas, and an affordable bar. Chicago Union Station, Philadelphia 30th Street Station, and Boston South Street Station all offer business class lounge passes for $35. At Los Angeles Union Station, the price is $25, and at New York’s Moynihan Train Hall, it’s $50. You can also redeem 1,500 Amtrak Guest Rewards points for a lounge day pass.
Once on the train, you’re also entitled to a complimentary non-alcoholic beverage, although this perk isn’t offered on the Acela. And of course, the same free Wi-Fi, seat outlets, and picture windows offered in coach are also available in business.
Which train routes offer Amtrak business class?
You’ll find the upgraded train car on the Northeast corridor, including the Northeast Regional and the Acela. It’s also available on 14 other routes through the Midwest and West: Amtrak Cascades, Borealis, Carolinian, Downeaster, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express, Illinois Services, Maple Leaf, Michigan Services, Missouri River Runner, Pacific Surfliner, Palmetto, Pennsylvanian, and Vermonter.
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