The Amtrak Acela train has been on my list for a long time. I decided to take a unique way home from Boston.

I am taking the Acela Train, which is the fastest train in the United States to New Haven, CT. Then fly home with Avelo Airlines from New Haven to Lakeland, I have a four-hour layover so I’m going to hang out in the Pizza Capital of the World and sample slices from Frank Pepe Pizzeria, Sally’s Apizza, and Modern Apizza, three of the oldest and most iconic pizza establishments in the United States.

The Acela is Amtrak’s flagship high-speed train service along the Northeast Corridor, connecting major cities like Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. It offers superior comfort with more space and legroom than typical airline seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets at your seat. The Acela trains can reach speeds up to 150 mph.

Amtrak is preparing to introduce the NextGen Acela trains, which are expected to enter service in spring 2025. These new trains will feature enhanced amenities, increased capacity, and improved performance, with top speeds of 160 mph.

They only have First Class and Business Class.

New Haven is often hailed as the “pizza capital of the world” for several reasons:

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana was established in 1925, Frank Pepe is one of the oldest and most iconic pizza establishments in the United States.

Pizzerias like Sally’s Apizza and Modern Apizza, which have been around since the 1930s, have maintained traditional methods and recipes, handed down through generations.

The use of coal-fired ovens creates a unique, crispy, and slightly charred crust that is distinct from other pizza styles.

New Haven’s pizzerias have a devoted following, with people traveling from all over to experience their unique style. The city’s pizzerias often top “best pizza” lists and win accolades for their craftsmanship.

Pizza in New Haven is more than just food; it is a part of the city’s identity and community. The enduring family-run businesses create a sense of tradition and pride.

This combination of history, quality, and cultural significance has earned New Haven its reputation as the pizza capital of the United States.

apizza (pronounced ah-beets), is a unique style of pizza that originated in New Haven, Connecticut. Here are some key features:

Famous Pizzerias:

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana: Established in 1925, it is credited with inventing the white clam pie.

Sally’s Apizza: Founded in 1938 by Frank Pepe’s nephew, Salvatore “Sally” Consiglio.

Modern Apizza: Established in 1934, it is another well-known purveyor of New Haven-style pizza.

New Haven pizza has gained a reputation as one of the best pizza styles in the United States, with celebrity supporters like Paul Giamatti, Michael Bolton and Rob Fredericks. It is a must-try for any pizza lover!

Avelo Airlines has been serving Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL) since June 2023. They initially offered flights to New Haven, Connecticut (HVN) and quickly expanded to include routes to Atlanta, Georgia (ATL), Nashville, Tennessee (BNA), San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU).

Once I got on the plane, I settle in to enjoy my pizza until the flight attendants found me. How, could I refuse them so I gave them the rest.