HELP! - Amtrak out of Penn station?

Question

I'm going to be using the amtrak for the first time to go on a trip out of NYC to Boston, Mass. I've been through penn a million times, but never used/paid much attention to the amtrak. What I want to know, is just a little bit about how it works; where do you go to get down to the tracks (any track, not for my specific needs), what can I expect, that kind of thing.

Any help would be great! =) Thanks.

Answer 1

Thunder gave you some good information, which I'll add to.

Arrive at Penn Station about a half hour before the time when your train is scheduled to depart.

Go to the Amtrak waiting area next to the departure gates.

Look at the large overhead departure board.  Look for your train, such as "Train 83, Departing at 1:00PM, Destination Boston".  Check its status (such as "On Time", or "Delayed 15 Minutes").

Listen for the boarding announcement, which will also appear on the departure board, providing the gate number.  The announcement will be something like "Amtrak's Acela Service, Train Number 83, Scheduled to Depart at 1:00PM en route to Boston, by way of New Haven, and Providence, is now ready for boarding at Gate 14".  Expect a stampede of people with the same idea heading to the gate.  

Get on line at the gate.  Hold out your ticket for the Amtrak attendant  to briefly check.  When you are waved through, go down the escalator to the track level, and board the train that is waiting there.  A conductor or two will be there to help direct you.  

Once on board, take any seat and settle in.  Hold your ticket for the conductor to take when he moves through the train, which may not be until after you've left the station.

The only major variation of the above is if you hold a ticket for a premium seat, such as Business Class, in which case be sure to head for the car on the train reserved for people holding Business Class tickets.

Answer 2

its the same way you would board any other train.  Wait for the gate announcement, have your tickets ready and go to the gate.  Go under the big board/Amtrak waiting area...