Business Class vs. Coach: A Costly Amtrak Experience

June 8, 2025 - 03:21

I recently took a nine-hour Amtrak journey from Rochester to New York City, opting for the business class experience at a price of $180. However, after my trip, I found myself questioning whether the extra expense was justified.

The allure of business class often includes amenities such as extra legroom, complimentary snacks, and access to quieter seating areas. While I did appreciate the spacious seating, the reality was that the benefits were not as pronounced as I had hoped. The complimentary snacks were minimal, and the overall atmosphere did not significantly differ from that of coach.

In contrast, coach class offered a more vibrant environment with fellow travelers, and the cost savings were substantial. For future trips, I believe that sticking to coach would be a more sensible choice. The experience taught me that sometimes, the extra cost does not equate to a significantly enhanced journey.