Comparing Amtrak's Coach and Roomette Options: Is the Extra Cost Justified?

Having traveled extensively across Florida via long-haul buses, I anticipated an upgrade in comfort with an Amtrak coach seat.

The first-class roomette didn't just provide comfort—it's an experience of its own.

Recently, I experienced both coach and first-class travel between Miami and the Tampa Bay Area, a journey taking around five hours on the Amtrak Floridian, which operates from Chicago to Miami.

A coach ticket for the Miami to Tampa segment was priced at $60, while a return trip in the first-class roomette set me back $230.

The higher fare for first-class covers dinner, a private restroom, and accommodations for two. Traveling alone, I noted that booking with another person would reduce the cost to double the coach price per person.

The additional cost was justified by amenities like a twin-sized bed setup and a more refined dining experience, particularly when the cost can be shared between two travelers.

Coach Class: A Familiar Setting

The seating arrangement in the coach cars reminded me of an economy flight, structured in approximately 40 rows with two seats on either side of a central aisle, allowing more room than a typical airplane.

Upon entering, passengers had the freedom to choose their seats, leading me to opt for a window seat near the car's front.

Exploring First-Class Compartments

Within the first-class sleeper cars, narrow corridors steered passengers towards their private rooms, each train car housing about a dozen roomettes—as was the one I selected—alongside some larger bedroom options.

These bigger rooms, suitable for two, charge $363 and provide twice the space compared to my roomette, including an in-room shower. As this was near the end of the train's route, many rooms were either vacant or previously occupied.

Coach Comfort and Space

The coach cabins resembled those on planes but were equipped with broader and more relaxing seats compared to standard airlines or bus services.

These seats were reclining, with a foldable footrest to allow one to stretch almost horizontally.

There were overhead storage options, and each seat was also outfitted with a drop-down table and an electrical outlet for charging devices.

Versatile Seating in Roomettes

In the first-class roomette designed for two, two cushioned seats could recline to transform into a lower bed, while an upper bed was retractable.

The space was 3 feet 6 inches in width and 6 feet 6 inches in length, about 23 square feet in total.

Economy Seats: Maximum Legroom

Departing in the morning and arriving early afternoon, a full bed wasn't necessary for my coach trip, yet the legroom was generous for my height of 5 feet 4 inches, and reclining was pleasant.

Roomette Upper Berth: Spacious Yet Uneven

Accessed above the toilet area, the roomette's upper bed comes with its own window and storage nook.

Although luxurious in size, issues with stability were felt due to a gap against the wall, which a tension strap should fix; however, I chose the lower bed for comfort.

My journey spanned from late afternoon into the night, arriving near midnight, most of it spent resting in these beds under a serene ambiance provided by dimming lights and drawn curtains.

Dining Options Across Classes

Economy class offers dining tables reminiscent of a school cafeteria, spacious with scenes to enjoy while dining.

Conversely, the first-class dining experience boasted more extensive windows, elegant settings with tablecloths, flowers, and a range of condiments.

Dining Car Experience in Economy

It took me around an hour to finally place an order in the economy café, as a solo handler managed all orders, preparation, and serving.

No response was provided by Amtrak on my feedback regarding this delay.

First-Class Dining: More Refined, Limited Options

Despite limited menu choices due to service issues, the first-class offerings felt superior with dishes like cheeseburgers with sides unlike those typical of economy class.

The burger's quality surpassed a fast-food standard, feeling akin to a restaurant experience.

Affordable and Satisfying Coach Meals

After finally ordering in the economy dining car, my meal of mac 'n cheese, cookie, and soda was pleasantly palatable and affordably priced.

Sweet Endings: First-Class Desserts

First-class diners were treated to warm brownies with chocolate syrup, topped off with whipped cream—an enjoyable conclusion to the meal service.

Restroom Amenities: Economy vs. First-Class

The coach bathroom was larger than one might expect, cleaner than anticipated after several hours of use and ADA-compliant.

Roomette Bathroom: Privacy Issues with Double Occupancy

While the roomette's private bathroom was convenient for solo use with window-covered privacy, it lacked separation for dual occupants, making it potentially awkward.

Conclusion: Roomette Worth the Investment for Long Journeys

Though enjoyable, the roomette experience stood out for its comfort and uniqueness compared to air or rail coach travel.

Despite the price difference, for longer trips needing personal space and rest, I would happily opt for the roomette.