Why Acela?

How would you like to get to your next business meeting or family reunion? Would you like to avoid the hassle of finding a taxi or driving (and parking) at the airport, fighting traffic along the way only to find yourself running to your plane where a small, cramped seat awaits you?

Or would you prefer to walk from your office or the subway to the Amtrak station, where you can board a train with wide reclining seats equipped with power outlets? Our Acela trains offer frequent service to destinations throughout the Northeast Corridor, with first- and business-class seating options and free WiFi. Stretch your legs with a stroll to the Cafe Acela or, if you're traveling in First Class, enjoy at-seat dining service. All Acela trains now offer seat selection in Business and First Class, offering more peace of mind knowing your seat is waiting for you.

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. You can also travel with environmental sustainability in mind, since all-electric trains like Acela produce significantly less CO2e emissions compared to flying or driving.

Sources: SeatGuru and Global Airline Seating Guide

Arrive downtown, not out of town. Acela serves conveniently-located stations in city centers, including Boston - South Station, Moynihan Train Hall at New York - Penn Station, and Washington - Union Station. These stations all feature easy access to public transportation, commuter rail, taxi and rideshare.

Plug in or tune out — the choice is yours. Acela trains offer free WiFi and wide, assigned seats equipped with power outlets and tabletops, so you can travel in comfort while you catch up on work or kick back and enjoy the ride.

In the Northeast Corridor, trains like Acela are 100% electric, and approximately one third of the energy used is generated by carbon-free sources. Traveling on all-electric trains like Acela produces up to 72 percent less CO2e emissions compared to airplanes, and 83 percent less CO2e emissions than a personal vehicle.

Cafe Acela and First Class At-Seat Meal Service

Cafe Acela is open to all our Acela passengers and offers bistro menu selections freshly prepared to your liking in minutes. Acela First Class passengers enjoy our rotating at-seat menu service and cuisine typically found in fine dining restaurants.

First Class Seating — Exclusively on Acela

Arrive at your location relaxed and revived by traveling in Acela First Class. Enjoy spacious seating with at-seat service in a quiet, elegant atmosphere, as well as complimentary meals, priority boarding, beverages, hot towels and newspapers. You’ll also enjoy privileged access to station lounges in Boston - South Station, Moynihan Train Hall at New York - Penn Station, Philadelphia - William H Gray III 30th Street Station and Washington - Union Station.