Trains from NYC
 

Do we need to make a reservation for a train from New York to Boston for 4 people? it would be on a Thursday around Midday. thanks

According to the Amtrak website http://www.amtrak.com
all regional and acela trains require a reservation at all times.

That just means you have to buy your ticket before you board.

What EricH said. You can buy your tickets when you get to the station.

If you purchase a ticket in advance, and your timing changes they let you exchange it last minute, for an earlier of later time if there are still seats available, and charge you the difference if the fare is higher.

I've done this many times.

The most fun people watching is in Penn Station watching everyone watch the giant board to find out which track their train boards.

Then the mad scramble for the right track.

Go a little early and sit at the bar at Houlihans and watch the madness.

Not sure @ that particular route, but in my experience going from DE to NYC & back, the fares change all the time; the closer to the travel time, the more expensive it is (kinda like air fare). Also, sometimes they sell out. On the other hand, having to catch a certain train is more stressful; but if you treat it like a plane & get there in plenty of time, it's fine.And yes, if you miss it, you can get on the next 1 (if seats avail), prob for a higher $ tho.

These trains typically run pretty full. I would certainly buy tickets in advance if you want to go on a particular train. While you can buy your ticket at the station, trains do sell out.

Some trains (late Friday and Sundays when people are traveling for the weekend) and also some business time trains can be fairly full. I would reserve in advance - then change if you must.

Be aware there is little time from the announcement of the track to the time the train leaves (10 minutes or so) so you have to move quickly as soon a the track is listed. If you'll have luggage you can't easily carry downstairs to the track you may want to organize a porter to help you with a cart and elevator.

Also - be aware that the reservation is for A seat - but not any specific seat. So move quickly to get 4 seats together.

Sorry - as a separate issue you don;t mention what your plans are. If you'll be touring outside Boston by car it's much cheaper for 4 to drive to Boston than to take the train - and the time is the same.

I would make a reservation. The last two times I took the train from Bos-NYC they were full and I had wanted to change my time and the next three were full. As said, once purchased, you can always change to an open train and pay the fare difference, if any.

I use the Amtrak for NY to Kingston all of the time for business and form Kingston to Boston. During peak travel for business (6-9AM) the trains can be pretty full and the same for 3-6PM on the return. Mid day on a Thursday should be pretty good...that is, pretty open, but you won't need to worry if you make your reservation ahead of time. If business class is an option, those seats are a bit more comfortable and you get free non alcoholic drinks. As others have said, it is a bit of a scramble to rush to the correct track number. If you have lots of luggage, you can arrange for a porter to help you. If you have AAA, you can get a discount on line if you arrange your trip ahead of time...I think it's 3 days.
Part of this trip is fairly scenic when you pass the coastline in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Try to sit on the right side of the train as you face the front car for a better view.In my opinion, there is no value to choosing the Acela on this route because the trains are limited as to where they can travel fast and you don't save much time.