I travelled in first class on an Amtrak Acela train for the first time. Here are 7 things you should know before booking a ticket.

Joey HaddenMar 24, 2022, 21:12 IST

The author rode first class in an Amtrak Acela train and noticed a few key things about the experience that she wishes she'd known before booking.Joey Hadden/Insider

I recently went on a first-class train journey on an Amtrak Acela for the first time.
After taking the trip, there are some things I think everyone should know before booking a ticket.

I traveled in first class on the Amtrak Acela train from New York City to Baltimore. I learned a few things along the way that I wish I'd known before I'd booked my ticket.

The author enjoys a first-class Amtrak ride.Joey Hadden/Insider

I traveled in first class on the Amtrak Acela train from New York City to Baltimore. I learned a few things along the way that I wish I'd known before I'd booked my ticket.

Before I get to what I learned, I should say — although it was my first time traveling in first class on an Amtrak Acela train — this wasn't my first rodeo with Amtrak.

The author in an Amtrak roomette accommodation.Joey Hadden/Insider

Before I get to what I learned, I should say — although it was my first time traveling in first class on an Amtrak Acela train — this wasn't my first rodeo with Amtrak.

Before booking, I was surprised to learn that Amtrak Acela — an East Coast express train — only has two classes: business and first.

An Amtrak Acela train stopped in Baltimore.Joey Hadden/Insider

Exclusive lounges included with a first-class ticket are only at a handful of stations. It worked out for me traveling from NYC's Penn Station, but those leaving from other stations might not get to enjoy this perk.

The Metropolitan Lounge at NYC's Penn Station.Joey Hadden/Insider

Exclusive lounges included with a first-class ticket are only at a handful of stations. It worked out for me traveling from NYC's Penn Station, but those leaving from other stations might not get to enjoy this perk.

When reserving a ticket, Amtrak automatically assigns you a seat, but you can change it anytime after booking. In first-class Acela cars, there are two seats on one side and one seat on the other. Seats face both directions.

A first-class car on an Amtrak Acela train.Joey Hadden/Insider

When reserving a ticket, Amtrak automatically assigns you a seat, but you can change it anytime after booking. In first-class Acela cars, there are two seats on one side and one seat on the other. Seats face both directions.

I didn't think the seats were as comfortable as they looked. If you're like me, you might not find them to be worth the first-class fare.

A first-class seat on an Amtrak Acela train.Joey Hadden/Insider

A nice perk in first class is a complimentary drink, served after you board. Just don't make the mistake I did by pouring the drink into a glass while the train is moving.

The author's orange juice sits on the tray table.Joey Hadden/Insider

A nice perk in first class is a complimentary drink, served after you board. Just don't make the mistake I did by pouring the drink into a glass while the train is moving.

I thought the menu was limited for the price, too.

A first-class menu on an Amtrak Acela train.Joey Hadden/Insider

Whether you're in first or business class, you can grab a bite at the cafe car.

The author ventures to the cafe car.Joey Hadden/Insider

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I travelled in first class on an Amtrak Acela train for the first time. Here are 7 things you should know before booking a ticket.

I traveled in first class on the Amtrak Acela train from New York City to Baltimore. I learned a few things along the way that I wish I'd known before I'd booked my ticket.

Before I get to what I learned, I should say — although it was my first time traveling in first class on an Amtrak Acela train — this wasn't my first rodeo with Amtrak.

Before booking, I was surprised to learn that Amtrak Acela — an East Coast express train — only has two classes: business and first.

Exclusive lounges included with a first-class ticket are only at a handful of stations. It worked out for me traveling from NYC's Penn Station, but those leaving from other stations might not get to enjoy this perk.

When reserving a ticket, Amtrak automatically assigns you a seat, but you can change it anytime after booking. In first-class Acela cars, there are two seats on one side and one seat on the other. Seats face both directions.

I didn't think the seats were as comfortable as they looked. If you're like me, you might not find them to be worth the first-class fare.

A nice perk in first class is a complimentary drink, served after you board. Just don't make the mistake I did by pouring the drink into a glass while the train is moving.

I thought the menu was limited for the price, too.

Whether you're in first or business class, you can grab a bite at the cafe car.