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Welcome to the Amtrak Viewliner Roomette! This cozy space offers privacy and the comfort of sleeping horizontally—perfect for indulging in 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 of the standout features of Viewliner train cars is their single-level design, meaning you’ll only need to navigate stairs when boarding. At some stations, there aren’t any stairs at all! The Viewliner’s extra ceiling height gives Roomettes 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 train of the Amtrak system with fantastic views.

Whether traveling solo or with a companion along the East Coast, the Viewliner Roomette provides a serene escape amidst the excitement of rail travel. In this guide, I will explain everything you need to know about the Viewliner Roomette, from its features and amenities to tips for making the most of your journey.

Amtrak Viewliner Roomette Size

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 beds

During the day, the two chairs face each other to provide seating.

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

As a 6’2″ tall person, I prefer to sleep in the upper bunk when I travel. Even when traveling alone, I find it spacious and comfortable. This way, I still have the lower bunk for seating if I want to stay late or get up early.

The top bunk requires you to use the steps and handles to get into it, and safety straps prevent rolling out at night. There is also a reading light and a pouch or netting for keeping personal items such as glasses, phones, and other belongings within reach. Remember to double-check everything before you leave!

What Amtrak trains have Viewliner equipment?

As indicated in the table below, Amtrak’s Viewliner equipment is available on all long-distance trains that arrive and depart from New York Penn Station.

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 – Savanna, GA

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

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: the older Viewliner I models have blue interiors, and the newer Viewliner II models have burgundy 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 relocated to where Room 12 is situated, and their room is now a bathroom.

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

• No In-Room Toilet: The new cars do not have toilets in the roomettes, but the old ones do.
• Restroom Location: The restroom is shared by passengers and across from the shower.
• Coffee Station: In newer Viewliner II cars, the coffee station was moved near the bedrooms for easier access.
• Interior Design: The color scheme has shifted from blue (Viewliner I) to burgundy and wood (Viewliner II), offering a more modern and cozy atmosphere.
• Attendant’s Room: In Viewliner II cars, the attendant’s room is now located where room 12 is shown in the diagram, while in Viewliner I cars, it is the white room across from the shower.
• Other Updates: The new cars have an outlet on the wall and the opposite side of the room and updated LED lights.

Will Amtrak put someone else in my Viewliner roomette?

If you book a roomette, you will have the entire room to yourself, and Amtrak will not assign a stranger to your room.

The exception is when you book a travel companion.

Viewliner Roomette: Outlets & Lighting

Knowing what you can expect is essential, as well as knowing what extras to pack.

Power

The Viewliner I sleeper cars, predating widespread electronics use, feature only one standard grounded (three-prong) US voltage outlet per room near the sink. Viewliner II cars boast two outlets, one near each seat and one near the sink.

For those needing to charge multiple devices simultaneously, I found a simple extension cord or a power pack can efficiently resolve this issue. Something around six to eight feet will give you power almost anywhere in the room, including if you are in the upper bunk. See what you think after your first trip.

Lighting

During the day, the windows let in a lot of natural light, but you may need some illumination to be happy.

Viewliner Lighting includes:

• Ceiling
• Nightlight,
• Reading and wall lights.

Amtrak is transitioning to energy-efficient LED lights, while older cars have fluorescent and incandescent bulbs.

Heating and Vents

Heating controls and circulation vents are available. Vents by the windows let fresh air in at the desired level.

I have noticed that the thermostat does not always work, but even if it does, I am comfortable 99% of the time. When I am out of the room, I often open the outside vents and circulate the air on high to freshen up the room. I love fresh air, but see what works best for you.

Windows and doors of a Viewliner Roomette

Windows

Viewliner train cars feature two rows of windows. The large lower windows offer a stunning landscape view during your journey, while the upper-level windows let in more natural light and provide a scenic view from the upper bunk.

The windows facing the hallway create a sense of openness in your room. However, drapes are available on all windows to block out light and ensure privacy.

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

Doors

When staying in a roomette, please note that you can only lock the door from the inside.

Therefore, it is advisable to ensure that all your valuables are out of sight before leaving the room. Although there have been no reports of theft, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Also, please be aware that the newer room locks are more user-friendly than the older ones.

Amtrak Viewliner roomette luggage storage tips

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

Roomettes have a place for you to hang garments, and ample storage for most travelers is above the door.

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

Checked Baggage Service

Long-distance trains allow you to check bags, but this service is unavailable between 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 bottled water, fresh towels, washcloths, blankets, sheets, and pillows for passengers’ comfort.
• Coffee And Drink Station: In older sleepers, the coffee station is typically located near the shower and towards the end of the car. In newer configurations, it can be found towards room one in the middle of the sleeper car, offering coffee and juice in the morning.

Sink and Toilet In An Amtrak Roomette

Toilets in Amtrak Viewliner Roomettes

One question I see is whether the Amtrak Viewliner roomette has a toilet in the room. The answer depends on the age of the car:

Older Cars: Roomettes in older Viewliner cars have a toilet within the room, but this can change as the sleeper cars get rebuilt.
Newer Cars: In contrast, newer Viewliner cars do not have toilets in the roomettes. You may not know which type of Viewliner you’ll travel in until you board the train. Amtrak can swap out cars at any time.

Having a toilet in the room has its 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. The toilet is under the sink, which you can access by lifting the lid. However, there are no public restrooms in the sleeper cars.
• New Car Layouts: Newer cars feature a public restroom located at the end near the door, opposite the shower. However, in specific configurations like dorm baggage cars found on trains like the Cardinal, the restroom is centrally located within the sleeper car, with the shower across from it.

Sink Convenience: Each roomette in the car is equipped with a sink, regardless of age. The sink has a unique feature: dirty water accumulates in the basin and drains out when you return it to the wall. You can use the water from the sink to wash your hands, brush your teeth, and even drink.

Accessibility: Safety handles help you reach the upper berth or bunk by supporting you when using the steps.

Meals Onboard

Your reservations include scheduled meals, which vary depending on the route. Traditional dining is available on the Silver Star and Silver Meteor, while all other trains offer flex dining options.

Car Attendant

Every car has a car attendant to assist passengers during the journey. The term porter is no longer used to refer to car attendants.

Car attendants help you settle and help you along your adventure.

When boarding an Amtrak train, your attendant will often greet you before you enter the train. If you board late at night, the conductor or another car attendant may greet you instead.

After you’ve settled in, the attendant will come to your room to explain everything and answer any questions.

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

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

They are available to help all passengers in the car, but please be aware that response times may vary based on their availability and the needs of other passengers.

Attendants usually have downtime in the middle of the night, so it’s best to make any requests accordingly.

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

Wi-Fi On The Train

Most Viewliner trains do offer Wi-Fi, and it is free!

Amtrak’s Wi-Fi relies on cellular technology, not meant to stream videos or large files.

Connectivity can also be inconsistent during the journey, and that includes cell service on your phone. I plan on slow or no Wi-Fi on any transportation, and if it is available and works, I am thankful. I would advise you to prepare for unavailability.

If you wish to watch movies or shows during your travels, it is recommended that you download them beforehand to ensure uninterrupted viewing.

Getting around the train & where you can go

Navigating through a train is straightforward if you remember the right direction to move.

Since trains are linear, you may pass through a few compartments to reach your intended destination. It’s essential to be considerate of others when walking through the train, especially when they’re sleeping.

Sleeper Lounge (on the Lakeshore Limited)

A sleeper lounge is a dining car now used as a gathering place for sleeper car passengers.

This car has an attendant to help get you your meals and complimentary soft drinks.

Try the lounge if you need to leave your roomette for a while. Amtrak set this car aside for sleeper car passengers to relax and watch the scenery roll by traveling to their destination. If you need snacks or additional alcohol, check out the next car.

Cafe Car

The cafe car, where coach passengers can hang out and grab snacks and drinks, is often located next to the dining car on the Silver Meteor and Star, between the coach and sleeper on the Crescent, and between the coach and front sleeper car on the Lake Shore Limited.

Shower & Changing Room

When traveling on a train, showering can be necessary and enjoyable.

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

Amtrak provides bar or soft soap, washcloths, and towels for your convenience.

However, if needed, you should bring your shampoo, hairdryer, or other hair accessories. Shower shoes or flip-flops are also recommended to keep your feet clean and avoid slipping.

Can I have a specific roomette for the best view?

This question is frequently asked on forums.

A ticket agent cannot ensure the direction in which a room faces since sleeper cars can run in either direction. As a result, Amtrak may arrange sleeper cars in any order they arrive at the yard.

The direction your room faces is determined by chance, and while the onboard staff may be able to relocate you, this is not guaranteed.

Often, people forget that there are things to see on both sides of the train.

When will I learn which Viewliner roomette I have?

When you book your room with Amtrak, they will assign you a car and a room number after the payment clears.

Each sleeper car is assigned a number for the trip, such as 9710. As you approach the train, look for the illuminated sleeper car number near the door. The room number is displayed on the wall by the door of your roomette. Sometimes, you may have to access your car through a neighboring one.

Where are the sleeper cars within the train’s lineup?

Amtrak tends to put sleeper cars at the end of the train, past the café or dining cars.

Sleeper cars on the Lake Shore Limited can be found at both ends since the train separates or joins during the journey. The Boston 448 or 449 sleeper cars are at the front, while the 48 or 49 are at the rear.

Amtrak Viewliner Roomette: Extras to Consider Packing

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

Electronics:

• Extension cord: Useful for reaching distant outlets.
• Headphones: Essential for private listening.
• Chargers and cables: Keep all devices powered.
• Tablet with downloaded entertainment: Apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime allow you to download movies and shows for offline viewing.

Snacks and Drinks:

• Reusable snack bag with snacks. Convenient for packing snacks away as you eat them. This system allows you to bring some snacks with you in case you have midnight munchies or while you wait for the train.
• Buy snacks along the way: Many large stations, like 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 permitted in your roomette but consumed responsibly. If you become disruptive, conductors can remove you at the next stop. Do not take your beverage to other parts of the train.

Sleeping and Miscellaneous:

• Eyeshades: Helpful if you’re sensitive to light at night.
• Earplugs: Ideal for those who need a quiet environment.
• Sleep aids: They can help you rest during your trip.

Viewliner Roomette Etiquette

Basic manners apply when riding in a Viewliner Sleeper. Here are a few points to keep in mind:

• Inside voices: The walls are thin, so be mindful of your neighbors.
• Volume control: If you don’t use headphones, keep your electronics at a low volume, especially at night.
• Respect the car attendant: Remember, there is only one attendant for the entire car.
• Clean up after yourself: This is courteous and helps improve the experience for staff and fellow passengers.

Viewliner Roomette Wrap-Up

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

Occasionally, I didn’t get the best car attendant, but it was the exception to the rule.

I try to get a roomette because of personal space, food, shower use, and sleeping horizontally. Plus, roomettes are often cheaper than a bedroom. With a sleeper, once onboard, your basic needs are covered, but it is always fun to splurge on a treat from the cafe car.

My favorite part of a roomette is that I can stretch out, watch the scenery go by, and listen to something without headphones (providing I keep it at a low volume). I also love to use 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. Or if I want to stay up late, I can have my bed ready.

Reminder: things can change at any time. I do my best to keep things updated, but Amtrak can change things without me finding out.

Safe Travels!

Kev

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