Amtrak’s Renovated Boston Lounge Is (a Little) Better Than Before
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Train travel isn't all that luxurious, and Amtrak isn't known for its lounge offerings, but the train operator has just revealed its renovated lounge at Boston South Station, which doesn't look like a bad place to kick back for a few hours.
Previously called ClubAcela, the renovated space will now be referred to as the Metropolitan Lounge. It's still located in the same area where ClubAcela was but now features new carpeting, more seating with better access to power outlets and a new check-in area.
Boston South Station is the second Amtrak lounge to be renovated (after Chicago's Metropolitan Club was opened in 2016) as is part of a campaign to provide modern amenities to train travelers. The lounge looks similar to a basic American Airlines Admirals club or United Club — and it does seem a heck of a lot better than Amtrak's gloomy ClubAcela at New York's Penn Station.
Amtrak has modernized other areas including the restrooms and snack bar — even restoring some of the historical lighting.
Once in the lounge, you'll have access to complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and food — think coffee, juice, soda and light snacks like cliff bars, pretzels and pastries. Other amenities, albeit basic, include free Wi-Fi, fax and photocopy services, conference room access, newspapers and other magazines.
To access the lounge, you'll need to have purchased a ticket in Acela First class or a sleeping car. However, you can also access the space through a day-pass or if you're an Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Plus or Select Executive member. Business class passengers can pay $20 for a day pass.
Amtrak says its upgrades to the ClubAcela in Philadelphia are nearly complete and Washington DC's Metropolitan Lounge will open in 2020. As part of New York Penn Station's renovation, Amtrak is building a new Metropolitan Lounge in the connected Moynihan Station, which is expected to open in 2021.
The lounge renovations coincide with the train operator's plans to refresh its car interiors with new seats and move toward a more airline-like business model.
If you do find yourself purchasing an Amtrak ticket anytime soon make sure you use a card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Citi Premier® Card, which both earn 3x points on all travel purchases. Or you can redeem points for rides, which you can earn through Bank of America's Amtrak Guest Rewards World MasterCard.