I rode in business and first class on Amtrak's NextGen Acela, the fastest train in the US. Here's how they compared.

The author traveled in first and business class on the Amtrak NextGen train.

Joey Hadden/Business Insider

• The Amtrak NextGen Acela is the fastest train in the US.
• I booked a business-class ticket from New York City to Washington, DC, for $180.
• Then, I traveled from Washington, DC, to NYC in first class for $450.

I spent six hours and $630 on the fastest train in America.

The Amtrak Acela is the express option for travelers in the Northeast with only business and first-class seating.