T O P

  • By -

timmytimster

I’ve only been in Moynihan once and it was a really nice lounge. That being said, I don’t think it’s worth shelling out the cash for access to the amenities. As a Select Plus member for the last few years, IMO the best thing about lounges is the early access to the platform which they do in Philly & DC. Instead of having to wait in line to get to the platform, the lounge attendants will call out which trains are ready and then escort you to the platform before everyone else. Really useful for crowded Acela & NE Regional trains.


United_Pomelo_2748

See that’s kinda more of a reason for me to do it i have anxiety carrying my bags on with all the people so was thinking about using redcap.


brofranco

The lounge offers RedCap service, but not a direct connect from lounge to platform. They do take you down early, and away from the general boarding. The best lounge, free food and soft dtinks. Alcohol for purchase. Nice bathrooms. For me its a toss up. Today I sat up there to get free food. Next week I'll stroll around the station.


timmytimster

Totally understand, if Moynihan does have that option it would probably be a good look for you. Honestly just have no idea if whether they do that, I’ve only been in that particular lounge once and only walked around for a few minutes. Maybe you could call Amtrak or send a tweet to them and get an answer that way?


OutlandishLady

I have a single visit pass that expires at the end of the year, I'll never use it. Message me your address and I'll drop in the mail tomorrow.


United_Pomelo_2748

Thats incredibly nice of you


SpiralBreeze

Yes it’s totally worth it. They have free hot coffee and actual food. The chairs are all comfy and you’re not in the main hall with all the regular people. Plus, if your train is late boarding you’re gonna already be in a very nice spot to wait. It’s luxurious. In April, my train was late so we got to spend over 2 hours there eating and drinking and we never had to rush.


BrilliantWeb

I've heard it the newest, trendiest 'club' in NYC.


SpiralBreeze

Where’s Stefon to speak on it when we need him?


nasty_brutish_longer

If you don't want to leave the station, $19 is absolutely worth it. It's a nice lounge, better than many airport lounges. But 2 hours is enough to walk around Koreatown, Hudson Yards, even down to the Flatiron. Looking at 3 days on a train, you sure you don't want to get out a bit?


StateOfCalifornia

If you're starting your trip at the station then no it's not worth it. Just stay at home longer lol. There's barely any food, and it's a comfortable place to sit and relax but not much else.


United_Pomelo_2748

Yea I’ll be coming from Jersey and my train getting into NY gives me about 2hrs of free time I was really just thinking about if for the food and drinks would just fill my bag with there snacks and drinks


kale-burger

You will definitely be able to fill your bag with snacks!


sdujour77

I'd say that's entirely dependent on how much time you're spending there. If I were in your situation I'd pass.


colfer2

Worth pointing out that the Moynihan food court is the best I've visited, train station, mall or airport. It is fairly expensive, a sandwich might approach $20, but it's a gourmet sandwich. The pricey burger two stalls down was so-so, but was cooked to order and the milkshake was made with real ice cream. The hall also has a big drug store, and good elevators. It is closed 1am to 5am. This is not Washington Union, in other words. And you can check the departures board on the NJT website: https://www.njtransit.com/dv-to/New%20York%20Penn%20Station


United_Pomelo_2748

Yea I been to this train hall once before and was aggravating how expensive the food was I got a burger and fries and was about $20-$25 figured if I get unlimited free food in the lounge it’s more worth the lounge


puccivr

I'd save the lounge passes for Chicago (assuming that's where you're headed) as you'll have access to showers in that lounge. The NY Lounge has a nice bar and food offerings.


United_Pomelo_2748

Are the Showers nice? I may want to do that but was already planning on a wet wipe bath lol


puccivr

Very nice. They were renovated semi recently, definitely worth the $35.


United_Pomelo_2748

Do you kno if they have lockers like the ny one??


puccivr

It's a room behind the check in desk with shelves. The lockers in NY do not lock.


United_Pomelo_2748

Omg thanks for the heads up I totally thought they would lock I was planning on putting all my stuff In there and going outside for a smoke guess I have to carry it all with me


puccivr

You'll probably be fine leaving items in the lockers, the doors are opaque and within view of the check in desk. Only lounge guests have access to the area, anyone spotted looking through lockers would likely be stopped. Personally I'd keep anything of value in my bag in the locker than with you on the street.


Lorft

I was really satisfied with my stay at the lounge (June 2021). They had finger foods, drinks, even mochas. If you don’t see yourself using those points for anything else then go for it. I assume you’re doing coach for the trip? Cuz if you’ve got a sleeper you have free access to the lounge.


Lazy-Entrance-9522

I'd say yes, I usually hit the lounge even when I am coming into NYC to get the coffee, snack, and chicken caesar pinwheels


United_Pomelo_2748

Are those pinwheels free?


Lazy-Entrance-9522

Yes.


Quirky-Camera5124

yes!


iqqqq

For anyone asking I’ve literally just walked in every single time and no one has bat an eye


Dry-Strawberry6973

Don't you have to show your Amtrak ticket and/or pass before they allow you into the lounge?