I paid an extra $114 for a premium ticket on the Alaska Railroad. The value of my 4-hour train ride was incredible.

Seats on the train are assigned, and I liked knowing I’d have a designated spot for the entire ride.

I was impressed with how large and comfortable our seats were, too. They reclined pretty far back, and each had its own footrest and tray table.

In premium class, all seats are forward-facing. In adventure class, they’re arranged in groups of four, with two facing backward.

As GoldStar passengers, riders over 21 (like me) are also entitled to two complimentary adult alcoholic beverages per trip, plus unlimited non-alcoholic ones.

We didn’t have to go far to get them — there was a private bar with a bartender in our car. I had some wine and a few cups of tea throughout the journey.

My food was quite tasty and seemed pretty fresh, especially considering it was prepared on a moving train.

Those riding in regular adventure class don’t get meals included with their ticket — but they can purchase food and drinks in a designated car.

Alaska Railroad doesn’t have onboard WiFi, but I didn’t mind.

I enjoyed looking out the window and listening to the narration of our onboard guide, who shared interesting facts about the regions we traveled through.

Still, I’d recommend bringing a book or downloading a movie ahead of time if you need extra entertainment.

The four-hour train ride felt upscale in premium class, and I still felt like I was on vacation throughout the experience.

Between the food and beverage services, the upper-level viewing platform, comfortable seats, and dome-style windows, the $114 extra I spent on my ticket was well worth it.