Planning an overnight Amtrak trip is exciting! Watching the country roll by from the comfort of your own space is a special experience. But when it’s time to book, you’ll face the big question: Amtrak Roomette vs. Bedroom?
They might sound similar, but the difference in space, amenities, and price is significant. Choosing the right one can make or break your long-distance train journey.
So, what’s the main difference between an Amtrak Roomette and a Bedroom?
The main difference is that an Amtrak Bedroom is much larger and includes a private, in-room bathroom with a sink, shower, and toilet. An Amtrak Roomette is smaller (more compact) and does not have a private bathroom; passengers use the shared bathroom and shower facilities located in the car.
This guide will break down all the details to help you decide which private room is the perfect fit for your adventure.
Key Takeaways: Roomette vs. Bedroom at a Glance
For those who want the quick answer, here’s the rundown:
- The Bathroom is the Big-Ticket Item: Bedrooms have a private, all-in-one bathroom. Roomettes do not.
- Space & Comfort: Bedrooms are roughly twice the size of Roomettes, with a sofa and a separate armchair.
- Price: Roomettes are the more budget-friendly sleeper option. Bedrooms are a significant price jump but offer more luxury.
- Meals are Included for Both: No need to worry! All sleeper car passengers (in both Roomettes and Bedrooms) get complimentary meals in the Amtrak Dining Car.
What is an Amtrak Roomette?
Think of the Amtrak Roomette as the “cozy and efficient” option. It’s the most popular and most affordable way to get a private room on an overnight train.
It’s designed for one or two people (it’s a snug fit for two!). During the day, you have two comfortable seats that face each other. At night, your car attendant will convert the room: the two seats slide together to form a lower bed, and an upper bunk folds down from the ceiling.
Roomette Features:
- Capacity: 1-2 passengers
- Beds: Two berths (upper and lower)
- Bathroom: None in-room. You use the shared public restrooms and a separate, private shower room down the hall.
- Best For: Solo travelers, budget-conscious couples, or travelers on shorter overnight trips.
What is an Amtrak Bedroom?
The Amtrak Bedroom is the “spacious and private” upgrade. The moment you walk in, you’ll notice the difference. It’s a much larger space designed for two adults, and some can even accommodate a third.
During the day, you have a long sofa and a separate armchair. At night, the sofa converts into a lower bed, and an upper bunk folds down.
But the real game-changer is the private bathroom.
Bedroom Features:
- Capacity: 2 passengers (some can fit 3)
- Beds: Two berths (upper and lower)
- Bathroom: Yes, in-room! This is the key feature. You get a private, all-in-one unit with a toilet, sink, and shower.
- Best For: Couples who want more space, travelers who prioritize privacy, or anyone who doesn’t want to use a shared bathroom in the middle of the night.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Amtrak Roomette vs. Bedroom
This simple table breaks down the most important differences when you’re deciding on your accommodation.
| Feature | Amtrak Roomette | Amtrak Bedroom |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | 1-2 people, budget travelers | 2 people, travelers wanting privacy |
| Capacity | 2 Adults | 2 Adults (sometimes 3) |
| Beds | 2 converting seats | 1 sofa & 1 chair (convert) |
| Bathroom | Shared (down the hall) | Private (in-room) |
| Shower | Shared (down the hall) | Private (in-room) |
| Sink | None (shared) | Private (in-room) |
| Meals | Included | Included |
| Price | Standard Sleeper Fare | Premium Sleeper Fare |
A Note on Superliner vs. Viewliner Trains
You might see these train types mentioned. Here’s the simple version:
- Superliner: These are the double-decker trains used mostly on routes in the Western U.S. (like the California Zephyr or Empire Builder). All room types are on the upper level.
- Viewliner: These are single-level trains used on most routes in the Eastern U.S. (like the Cardinal or Silver Meteor). A key difference: Viewliner Roomettes actually do have an in-room toilet and sink, but no shower (which is still shared). Viewliner Bedrooms still have the all-in-one shower and bathroom.
Always check your specific route, but for most cross-country trips, the “Roomette = shared bathroom” rule applies.
Watch a Tour: See the Rooms for Yourself
Sometimes, seeing is believing. Here is a helpful video tour that shows you the layout of both a Roomette and a Bedroom so you can judge the space for yourself.
No, most Amtrak Roomettes (on Superliner trains) do not have a toilet or shower in the room. Passengers use the shared bathroom and shower facilities located in the same train car. Viewliner Roomettes (East Coast) do have an in-room toilet.
Yes, all sleeper car accommodations, including both the Roomette and the Bedroom, include complimentary meals in the Amtrak dining car for all passengers in the room. This typically includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
An Amtrak Roomette is designed to sleep a maximum of two adults. While cozy, it has one upper and one lower bunk.
This depends on your priorities. If having a private, in-room bathroom and shower is important to you, or if you want significantly more space to relax, then the Bedroom is often worth the splurge. If you are on a budget and don’t mind using shared facilities, the Roomette is a great value.
Which One Should You Choose?
So, who wins in the Amtrak Roomette vs. Bedroom debate?
Choose the Roomette if:
- You are traveling solo.
- You are on a tighter budget.
- You are traveling with a friend or partner and don’t mind a cozy space.
- Your overnight journey is relatively short (just one night).
- You don’t mind walking down the hall for the restroom or shower.
Choose the Bedroom if:
- You must have a private, in-room bathroom and shower.
- You are traveling as a couple and want more room to spread out.
- You are on a longer, multi-night journey (like the California Zephyr).
- You value comfort and privacy above all else and have the budget for it.
No matter which you pick, you’re in for an incredible journey. Happy travels!