Amtrak Viewliner Roomette: What You Need To Know

Welcome to the Amtrak Viewliner Roomette! This cozy space offers privacy and the comfort of sleeping horizontally, ideal for enjoying the romance of train travel. By day, two seats transform your space into a private oasis, allowing you to relax and watch America’s scenic landscapes roll by.

One standout feature of Viewliner train cars is their single-level design, which means you’ll only need to navigate stairs when boarding and disembarking. At some stations, there are no stairs at all! The Viewliner’s extra ceiling height provides Roomettes with more amenities than their Superliner counterparts, such as an in-room sink and additional storage. My favorite Viewliner route is the Cardinal, a hidden gem of the Amtrak system with fantastic views.

Whether traveling alone or with a companion along the East Coast, the Viewliner Roomette offers a peaceful retreat amidst the excitement of rail travel. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Viewliner Roomette, including its features and amenities, along with tips to enhance your journey.

Amtrak Viewliner Roomette Dimensions

The smallest of Amtrak’s accommodations is the Roomette, measuring around 6.5′ by 3.5′. The roomettes remind me of an RV’s efficient use of a small space.

Amtrak Viewliner roomette bed sizes

During the day, the two chairs face each other, providing seating for two.

At night, the sleeping car attendants convert the chairs into lower berths (2.3′ by 6.5′), while the second, or upper, berth is lowered from above (2′ by 6.2′). To sleep in the top bunk, one must climb into it.

As a solo traveler, I choose to sleep in the upper bunk as it makes mornings more manageable. This arrangement allows me to use the lower bunk for seating, especially if I want to stay up late or rise early. Being 6’2″, there’s more than enough room for me.

The top bunk requires steps and handles for access, and safety straps prevent the occupant from rolling out during the night. A reading light is available for reading or getting organized without disturbing your travel companion.

For your convenience, a pouch or netting holds personal items, such as glasses, phones, and other belongings, within easy reach. Be sure to double-check everything before you go!

Which Amtrak trains use Viewliner cars?

You will find Amtrak Viewliner equipment on East Coast trains, some of which originate or terminate in Chicago.

Viewliner Routes	Destinations
Cardinal	New York Penn – Chicago, IL
Crescent	New York Penn – New Orleans, LA
Floridian	Chicago, IL – Miami, FL
Lake Shore Limited	New York Penn and Boston, MA – Chicago, IL**
Silver Meteor	New York Penn – Miami, FL
Palmetto*	New York Penn – Savannah, GA

If your train is not listed above, you need the Superliner Roomette article.

Viewliner Sleeper Car Layout

Viewliner sleeper cars cater to various lodging needs, offering roomettes, bedrooms, and an accessible room.

• There are two types of Viewliner sleeper cars:
  • Older Viewliner I models feature blue interiors
  • Newer Viewliner II models have burgundy seats and wood-toned interiors.

The diagram below illustrates the layout of a Viewliner I sleeper car. The car attendant’s room is in the white area at the bottom right, directly across from the shower. In the newer Viewliner II sleeper cars, the attendant’s room has been moved to Room 12, and the former attendant’s room has been converted into a bathroom.

Here are some key differences between the older Viewliner I and the newer Viewliner II sleeper cars:

• No In-Room Toilet: The new cars do not have in-room toilets in the roomettes, whereas the older cars do.
• Restroom Location: The restroom passengers’ share is directly across from the shower.
• Coffee Station: The coffee station in newer Viewliner II cars has been relocated closer to the bedrooms for easier access.
• Interior Design: The color scheme has shifted from blue (Viewliner I) to burgundy and wood (Viewliner II), creating a more modern, cozy atmosphere.
• Attendant’s Room: In Viewliner II cars, the attendant’s room is located at position 12, as shown in the diagram. In Viewliner I cars, the attendant’s room is the white room located across from the shower.
• Other Updates: The new cars feature a wall outlet and an updated LED light on the opposite side of the room.

Will Amtrak assign someone else to my Viewliner roomette?

If you book a roomette as a solo traveler, you will have the entire room to yourself. Amtrak will not assign anyone else to share it with you.

Viewliner Roomette: Outlets and Lighting

Knowing what to expect is essential, as is knowing which extras to pack.

Power

The Viewliner I sleeper cars, which predate the widespread use of electronics, feature only one standard grounded (three-prong) US-voltage outlet per room, near the sink. In contrast, the Viewliner II cars offer two outlets—one near each seat and another near the sink.

If you need to charge multiple devices at the same time, consider using an extension cord or a power bank. A six- to eight-foot extension cord can provide power almost anywhere in the room, including the upper bunk. Let me know what you think after your first trip!

Lighting

The windows let in ample natural light throughout the day, but you may need more at times; Amtrak provides additional lighting.

Viewliner Lighting includes:

• Ceiling
• Nightlight,
• Reading and wall lights.

Amtrak is transitioning to energy-efficient LED lighting, while older cars still use fluorescent and incandescent bulbs.

Heating and Ventilation

Each room has heating controls and circulation vents. Vents near the windows allow fresh air to enter and can be adjusted by sliding them open or closed.

I’ve noticed that the thermostat doesn’t always work, but even when it doesn’t, I’m comfortable 99% of the time. When I’m out of the room, I often open the exterior vents and set the air to high to freshen the space. I love fresh air, but see what works best for you.

Windows and doors of a Viewliner roomette

Windows

Viewliner train cars have two rows of windows. The large lower windows provide stunning landscape views throughout your journey, while the upper-level windows admit more natural light and offer scenic views from the upper bunk.

The windows overlooking the hallway foster a sense of openness in your room.

However, drapes are provided on all windows to block out light and ensure privacy.

One feature I particularly enjoy is that you can close the lower curtains of the outside windows for privacy while keeping the upper ones open to let in light.

Doors

You can only lock the door from inside a roomette. I have a page with a video and a podcast explaining what to do and how to leave your room.

To stay safe, keep valuables out of sight when you step away. Although theft is rare, it’s wise to be cautious. The article also discusses this.

Additionally, the newer room locks are more user-friendly than the older ones.

Learn how to secure your belongings in Amtrak rooms.

Tips for storing luggage in an Amtrak Viewliner roomette

Viewliners offer more storage than their Superliner counterparts, but that doesn’t mean you have room for the “kitchen sink.”

Roomettes include a hanger for garments and ample storage above the door, which is sufficient for most travelers.

Packing as light as possible makes your trip easier, especially when getting on and off the trains.

Checked Baggage Service

Long-distance trains allow checked bags, but this service is not available at all stops.

Amtrak Viewliner Roomette Amenities

Comfort Amenities For A Viewliner Roomette

Each Viewliner roomette offers a range of amenities in addition to sleeping areas and storage:

• Fold-out Table: Located between the two chairs, often with the safety card and menus stored behind it
• Amtrak provides passengers with bottled water, fresh towels, washcloths, blankets, sheets, and pillows for their comfort.
• Coffee and Drink Station: In older sleepers, the coffee station is typically located near the shower and at the rear of the car. In newer designs, it is located near room one, in the middle of the sleeper car, and provides coffee and juice in the morning.

Sink and Toilet in an Amtrak Roomette

One question travelers may ask is whether the Amtrak Viewliner roomette includes a toilet.

The answer depends on the age of the car:

Older Cars: Roomettes in older Viewliner cars feature a toilet within the space, but this may change as the sleeper cars undergo renovation.
Newer Cars: In contrast, newer Viewliner cars lack toilets in the roomettes.

You might not know which type of Viewliner you’ll travel in until you board the train.

Amtrak can change cars at any time.

Having a restroom in the room comes with specific considerations.

While convenient for solo travelers, it may be awkward for two people sharing the space.

• Older Viewliners Feature:
  • If your sleeper car has white walls, it likely includes a toilet located under the sink. To access the toilet, lift the lid. This lid also serves as the first step to accessing the upper bunk.
  • However, there are no public restrooms available in these sleeper cars.
• New Car Layouts:
  • Newer cars feature a public restroom across from the shower.
  • In dorm baggage cars on trains like the Cardinal, the restrooms are at the center of the car, with the shower across from them.

Sink: Every Roomette in the car has a sink, regardless of age. This sink features a unique design: Dirty water collects in the basin and drains back into the wall as you return it. You can use the sink water to wash your hands, brush your teeth, or even take a sip.

Accessibility: Safety handles help you access the upper berth or bunk by providing support while you use the steps.

Meals On Board

Your reservations include scheduled meals that vary by route.

Traditional dining is offered on the Floridian and Silver Meteor, while all other trains feature flexible dining options.

Car Attendant

Each car has a car attendant available to assist passengers during the journey. “Porter” is no longer used to refer to car attendants.

Car attendants will assist you in settling in and accompany you on your adventure.

When you board an Amtrak train, your attendant will usually greet you before you step onto the train. If you board late at night, the conductor or another car attendant may welcome you instead.

Once you’ve settled in, the attendant will visit your room to explain everything and address any questions you may have. If you’re boarding overnight, they will likely check on you in the morning.

During your journey, the attendant will prepare your room for day or night use, assist with luggage when possible, and ensure the sleeper car is clean. They can also deliver meals to your room and share information about meal times and other train details.

You can press the call button to notify the attendant if you need assistance during your journey.

They are available to assist all passengers in the car, but please note that response times may vary depending on their availability and other passengers’ needs.

Attendees typically experience downtime at night, so it is advisable to avoid making any requests during that time.

If you are inclined, you can tip the attendant for excellent service, which is unnecessary.

Wi-Fi On The Train

Most Viewliner trains offer free Wi-Fi.

Amtrak’s Wi-Fi utilizes cellular technology and is not optimized for streaming videos or transferring large files.

Connectivity, including cell phone service, can also be inconsistent during the journey. I expect slow or no Wi-Fi on any mode of transportation; if it is available and functioning, I am grateful. I recommend preparing for unavailability.

If you want to watch movies or shows while traveling, it’s advisable to download them in advance to avoid interruptions.

Navigating the train and your travel options

Getting around on a train is easy if you remember the correct direction.

Since trains are linear, you might walk through several compartments to reach your intended destination. It’s essential to be respectful of others when moving through the train, especially when they are sleeping.

Dining Cars

The dining car is where you can walk for your meal, unless you prefer to have it delivered to your room.

• Where to find the dining car
  • Between the café car and the sleeping cars
    • Floridian
    • Silver Meteor
    • Crescent
  • Between the sleeping cars at the back and the coaches
    • Lakeshore Limited
  • No dining car
    • Cardinal
      • The flex meals come from the café car.
      • The café car is located between the coach and the sleeping cars.

Café Car

The café car, where all passengers can grab snacks and drinks,

• Where to find the café car:
  • Between the coach cars and the dining car
    • Silver Meteor
    • Floridian
    • Crescent
  • Between the coach and sleeper cars.
    • Cardinal
  • Between the coach and the front sleeper car
    • Lake Shore Limited.

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Shower & Changing Room

When traveling by train, showering can be both necessary and enjoyable.

Each sleeper car includes a shower for roomette passengers. You can use the shower area to change your clothes if you need more space.

Amtrak provides soap (liquid or bar), washcloths, and towels for your convenience. On my recent trips, lotions and shampoo have also been available, but you are welcome to bring your own.

If necessary, please bring your own hairdryer and hair accessories, as these items are not provided.

Shower shoes or flip-flops are recommended but not mandatory.

Could I request a specific roomette for the best view?

No, there’s no way to guarantee which direction your roomette will face or which side of the train it’ll be on.

Amtrak typically positions sleeper cars with bedrooms facing the center of the train, which affects the orientation of roomettes. However, roomettes can face either forward or backward, and Amtrak may occasionally swap sleeper cars at the last minute, resulting in a completely different layout.

The onboard crew may move you to another room if one is available, but don’t rely on it. Just because a room is empty when you board doesn’t mean it will remain available; passengers board and deboard at each stop. You can politely request a room change, but there’s no guarantee it will be granted.

The good news: Both sides of the train provide excellent views. On the Lake Shore Limited, you can see the Hudson River on one side and charming small towns on the other. On the Silver Service, coastal marshes alternate with inland forests. No matter where you are seated, you’ll enjoy a picturesque ride.

Pro tip: Plan your meal or café visit to align with scenic views; this way, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas from both sides of the train.

When will I get my Amtrak Viewliner Roomette assignment?

When you book a room with Amtrak, they will assign you a car and room number once your payment has been processed. Both will be displayed on your ticket and reservation confirmation.

Each sleeper car is assigned a number for the trip (e.g., Car 4010), and each roomette within that car is assigned a number. As you approach the train on the platform, look for the illuminated car number displayed on a placard next to the exterior door. Once inside, you can find your room number on the wall next to your roomette’s door.

Sometimes, you may need to walk through a neighboring car to reach yours. If you’re unsure, your attendant can point you in the right direction.

Where can I find the sleeper cars in the train lineup?

Amtrak typically places sleeper cars at the rear of the train, beyond the café or dining cars.

Sleeper cars on the Lake Shore Limited are located at both ends of the train, as it separates or joins during the journey. The Boston 448 or 449 sleeper cars are located at the front, while the 48 or 49 are positioned at the rear.

Amtrak Viewliner Roomette: Extra Items to Consider Packing

Here are a few things to consider that could enhance your trip:

Electronics:

• Extension cord: This lets you plug in multiple devices and get power where you need it.
• Headphones: Crucial for private listening while being a considerate neighbor.
• Chargers and cables: Keep all devices powered.
• Tablet with downloaded entertainment: Services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video allow you to download movies and shows for offline viewing.

Snacks and Drinks:

• A reusable snack bag with snacks is convenient while you wait for your train, as you travel down the rails, or when you get those midnight munchies. I place mine in a reusable bag filled with snacks. This way, I have a bag on hand if I need it later.
• Buy snacks along the way: Many major stations, such as Chicago, DC, and New York Penn, have food courts and shops.
• Refillable water bottle: Great for staying hydrated and reducing waste.
• Personal alcohol (Optional): It is allowed in your Roomette, but please consume it responsibly. If you become disruptive, the conductor may remove you at the next stop. Do not take your beverage to other areas of the train.

Sleeping and Other Matters:

• Eyeshades: Useful for those sensitive to nighttime light.
• Earplugs are ideal for anyone who needs a quiet environment.
• Sleep aids can help you get a restful sleep during your trip.

Viewliner Roomette Etiquette

Basic etiquette applies when traveling in a Viewliner Sleeper. Here are some points to consider:

• Use inside voices: The walls are thin, so please be considerate of your neighbors.
• Volume control: If you’re not using headphones, keep your devices at a low volume, especially at night.
• Respect the car attendant: There is only one attendant for the entire car.
• Clean up after yourself; this is a polite gesture that enhances the experience for staff and other passengers.

Viewliner Roomette Summary

Roomettes are my happy place; I have ridden thousands of miles in these rooms. I love the extra storage in these cars!

Sometimes, I didn’t have the best car attendant, but that was the exception, not the norm.

I love roomettes because they offer personal space, food, shower access, and the ability to sleep horizontally. Additionally, roomettes are often cheaper than bedrooms. With a sleeper, your basic needs are met once you’re on board, but indulging in a treat from the café car is always a treat.

My favorite part of a roomette is that I can stretch out, watch the scenery go by, and listen to something without headphones (as long as I keep the volume low). I also love using the upper berth because when I wake up in the morning, I can sit up with my coffee and push my bed out of the way. If I want to stay up late, I can also have my bed ready.

Reminder: Circumstances can shift at any moment. While I strive to keep everything up to date, Amtrak may make changes without my knowledge.

Safe Travels!

Kev

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