Amtrak Viewliner Roomette Review and Photos

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There’s a lot to be said for having your own private sleeper on an overnight train trip. An Amtrak Viewliner roomette is an affordable option and includes added amenities not given in coach.  Plus, Amtrak Viewliners single-level trains, for easy embarking and disembarking at your destination or just a “fresh air” stop.

I recently rode aboard an Amtrak Viewliner from Orlando to New York city and love this budget-friendly alternative for overnights. I’m too old and fussy to sit up all night in a coach seat, despite how spacious they feel.

Inside Your Viewliner Roomette

Designed for two travelers, Viewliner roomettes transform seamlessly from daytime to nighttime configurations. Oversized seats face a fold-out table to make relaxing or working easy. A large window offers scenic views with convenient cup holders nearby.

As your train departs your boarding station, your room attendant will explain the various controls and features found within your roomette.

Come nightfall, the two roomy seats fold down to become the lower berth. There’s an upper berth as well, that your attendant will set up for you if needed.  Some people prefer to sleep “upstairs” and keep their luggage and electronics set up below. Privacy curtains slide to cover the corridor and your picture window. I always get a great night’s sleep on the train.

Viewliner roomettes boast more than just sleeping space. They include a fold-down sink and toilet, a true luxury I really appreciate as a solo traveler. There’s a clean shower room at the end of each car, with fresh towels and soap provided.

Viewliner Roomette at Bedtime

Your attentive sleeping car attendant is there to ensure a smooth transition to nighttime mode with convenient turndown service (scheduled according to your preferences).

I usually ask to be the last roomette for turn-down service just because I am a night owl.

At the end of each Amtrak Viewliner car is a coffee station. Your car attendant will announce when it is in operation, usually from 6 A.M. and throughout the day. There are also ice cubes, water bottles and juices available.

Amtrak Station Lounges

Amtrak Station Lounge for Sleeping Car Passengers

Another perk I love about having a sleeper is that it grants you access to Amtrak’s Station Lounges in select locations. These comfortable spaces provide complimentary drinks, Wi-Fi, reading materials, and restrooms. If you need assistance with your bags, tell the receptionist that you would like Red Cap service for help getting your luggage directly to your roomette. The same goes if you have a mobility issue – Amtrak has lifts to get you up the three stairs to board the train.

There are seven First Class lounges around the country with more planned for the future. You’ll find these Metropolitan Lounges at Boston’s South Station, Chicago Union Station, Los Angeles Union Station, Moynihan Station in New York, Philadelphia 30th Street Station and Portland Oregon Union Station.  Washington, D.C. has their Acela First Class lounge that includes a business center.

You’ll either need to be buzzed in by pressing a button, or just walk in and show your boarding pass to the receptionist. That’s also the time to reserve a space for Red Cap service.

Where Can You Travel in an Amtrak Viewliner

While routes are limited to the eastern side of the Mississippi, Viewliner trains offer captivating journeys. Travel the sunny eastern seaboard with the Silver Meteor or Silver Star between Miami, Florida and New York City. Explore the South on the Crescent between New York City and New Orleans. Heading to Chicago?

Try a scenic route aboard the Cardinal through West Virginia’s White River Gorge. Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited follows the lengthy Hudson River from New York City en route to Chicago.

One Final Note:

Amtrak has ordered new Viewliner equipment that’s gradually coming on line.  The new roomettes do not have a toilet but there is a sink.  It won’t be too long until all the old Viewliner cars are replaced.  You can ask the reservation person if you are in one of the new Viewliner sleeping cars.