Amtrak's New High-speed Acela Trains Launch This Month—What Travelers Should Know

Travel + Leisure

a day ago

The countdown is on for a major railroad revival. On Aug. 28, Amtrak will launch its brand-new NextGen Acela trains, debuting the company's newest generation of high-speed cars. The rail company will roll out 28 larger trains through 2027, each offering upgraded amenities and increased capacity.
'In just a few weeks, history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela as we launch a new standard for American train travel,' Amtrak's President Roger Harris said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure. 'NextGen Acela is more than a new train—it's an evolution of travel.'
The trains will feature maximum speeds of 160 mph and utilize a new 'tilt system' which provides a "smoother, quieter ride," according to Amtrak. Currently, Acela trains run with a maximum speed of up to 150 mph.
On board, travelers will be able to enjoy free Wi-Fi with 5G speeds as well as upgraded interiors, including seats with new power outlets and USB ports. As for the seats themselves, travelers can expect an ergonomic design and winged privacy headrests and individual reading lights.
The company will initially debut five new trains with more planned after that. Amtrak's Acela service travels between Boston and Washington, D.C. with stops in popular Northeast cities like New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore along the way.
Before the new trains even hit the tracks, Amtrak's first-class cabin has already undergone several updates. Last month, Amtrak updated its Acela first-class menu with dishes designed by James Beard award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr. The menu takes inspiration from regional dishes across the Northeast, like charred bobo chicken and crab enchiladas with coconut, poblano peppers, and corn.
Travelers who are in business class will be able to enjoy new cart service on the upgraded trains.
During last month's menu launch, Amtrak told T+L the 'elevated touches will add to the experience on board and improve expectations for what to expect on Amtrak and Acela First Class."
This isn't the end of Amtrak's expansion plans. The company also expects to introduce new Airo trains next year, which will feature modern, spacious interiors, including extra legroom, bigger tray tables, moveable headrests, and more. Even the cafe cars will get an upgrade complete with self-service options. These new trains will be rolled out across several lines, including on the Cascades line, which operates along a scenic route in the Pacific Northwest with stops in cities like Seattle and Vancouver.