The Metropolitan Lounge: Similar to areas at airports for VIP air travelers, Amtrak has 6 stations that have a lounge area for passengers who buy rooms on the trains. We have used several of them over the years and are always glad they exist. In this time of almost post-COVID-19, it is generally safer than the normal waiting area. As a general rule, they are not advertised. You need to seek them out.
Obviously, Chicago has a huge Metropolitan Lounge, that even includes a shower if you need it. They have free snacks, drinks and even a no host bar if that is your fancy. You can drop off your luggage and walk around the city if you like, if you have a large lay over between trains. The food in the station itself is mostly fast food, so a quick walk in the area, may be worth your time.
New York has the brand-new Moynihan Train Hall, which has a Metropolitan Lounge on the second floor. I have not been to that one yet, but I am sure it is quite beautiful.
Philadelphia has one for the Amtrak and Acela Passengers.
Washington, DC also has one for Amtrak and Acela Passengers. They also take your bags, if you want to travel from the station.
Portland, Oregon has a small one for the passengers of The Empire Builder and Coast Starlight. We found it after sitting in the cold waiting room for an hour. It was much appreciated.
Finally, my home station, Los Angeles Union Station, has one on the 2nd floor, above the ticket counter. You take an elevator to the second floor. It has snacks and coffee for passengers.
For more information, you can check the Amtrak site. https://www.amtrak.com/station-lounges
