Route and stations
Acela runs between Boston South Station and Washington Union Station. Main stops are Boston Back Bay, Route 128, Providence, New Haven, Stamford, New York Penn Station, Newark, Philadelphia 30th Street, Wilmington and Baltimore. Some trains also stop at Metropark and BWI Airport.
Boston to New York and New York to Washington each take roughly three to three and a half hours, depending on the train. Only a small part of the line allows 160 mph, so average speeds are lower.
Tickets and fares
Acela has two classes. Business Class has 2+2 seating. First Class has 2+1 seating and meals served at your seat. There is no Coach class.
Fares are dynamic and usually much higher than the Northeast Regional on the same route. Booking early and travelling outside rush hours helps. The USA Rail Pass is generally not valid on Acela. Prices change, so check Amtrak.com.
How to book
Book on Amtrak.com or in the app; all seats need a reservation. E-tickets on your phone are accepted.
If price matters more than time, compare with the Northeast Regional, which uses the same stations and is often only 30 to 60 minutes slower.
Tips for travellers
NextGen Acela trains offer free 5G-enabled Wi-Fi, more seats and better accessibility. Older Acela trains may still run on some departures.
Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early at New York Penn Station; boarding tracks are announced shortly before departure.
Amtrak carry-on rules apply: one personal item and two carry-on bags per passenger.
Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.
