Los Angeles Union Station

Imagine a place where the atmosphere of travel's golden age comes to life. Union Station in Los Angeles is more than just a transport hub; it is a true architectural monument built in 1939. Widely regarded as one of the last great American rail stations, it impresses with its grandeur and elegance, reminding guests of the heyday of rail travel in the USA.

The station building is a unique fusion of Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival (Mission Revival) styles. Designed by the Parkinson architectural firm, this masterpiece of marble and wood is surrounded by lush Californian gardens. Its silhouette, featuring a tall clock tower and a long main body, is often compared to an ancient giant standing still amidst a modern metropolis.

The interior is just as impressive as the facade: in the main hall, you can see an intricate carved ceiling and marble floors that resemble a massive work of art. The sense of scale and attention to detail make this a must-visit for anyone who appreciates historical architecture and the aesthetics of the last century.

For those planning a visit, below is the essential contact information for this active historical and transport hub. You can always check for the latest news or event schedules on the station's official website.

A visit to Union Station is much more than just waiting for a train. Your first stop should be the main waiting room to admire the massive chandeliers and intricate geometric patterns on the floors. The setting is so cinematic that film buffs will surely recognize it as a backdrop from numerous Hollywood movies and TV series.

Culture enthusiasts can explore the regular exhibitions held in the station's halls. For example, there are often displays dedicated to the history of Chinatown and the city's development. Additionally, the station is surrounded by cozy courtyards and palm-lined gardens, where you can enjoy a moment of peace right in the heart of bustling downtown.

Since the station remains a key transport hub, you can easily combine your architectural tour with a practical trip on the Metro or a commuter train. It is a living monument to history, where the monumental past meets the modern rhythm of the West Coast's largest metropolis.

Getting to Union Station, located at 800 N Alameda St, is easy. It is the city's central transport hub, situated right next to the famous historic Olvera Street. The most convenient way for tourists is to use the extensive Los Angeles Metro system, as the station serves as a key transfer point.

If you prefer comfort, you can take a taxi directly from downtown or use ride-sharing services. For those traveling by rental car, there are several paid parking lots nearby. Thanks to its prime location, the station serves as an ideal starting point for exploring historic downtown.

The story of Union Station is a tale of compromise and urban ambition. It was built through the combined efforts of three major railroad companies that decided to create a shared terminal instead of three separate stations. Completed in 1939 at a cost of $11 million—a staggering sum for the late 1930s—it became the final masterpiece of the era of great American train stations.

Interestingly, to build this giant, city authorities had to undertake a complex project: the historic Chinatown was completely relocated to a new site to clear land in the heart of the city. Today, the station preserves the memory of this event, and for its 85th anniversary, a special exhibition was organized dedicated to the lost Old Chinatown.

During the 1940s, Union Station played a critical role in U.S. logistics, facilitating the movement of people between the East and West Coests. Its lavishly decorated halls, featuring carved ceilings and inlaid patterns in the ticket concourse, have seen millions of travelers, preserving the spirit of the 20th century's most significant historical events within its walls.

To leisurely explore the main architectural details, see the majestic main hall, and take some impressive photos, 1–2 hours is usually enough. This time is sufficient to truly feel the atmosphere of the "Golden Age" of railroads.

If you plan a more detailed study of the decor, wish to visit current cultural exhibitions, or want to relax in the adjacent palm gardens, you should set aside about 2–3 hours. The station is an excellent spot for an atmospheric break between visiting other city landmarks.

Union Station in Los Angeles is open to visitors daily. The facility's schedule is very convenient: the doors are open from 04:00 to 01:00 (from four in the morning until one at night). This operating schedule is the same for every day of the week, including weekends and holidays.

As the hours for individual services, cafes, or special cultural events may vary, visitors are encouraged to check the station's official website for the latest information before their visit.

Exploring the area around the station can greatly enrich your trip. Its location in the historic center provides easy access to many entertainment venues, museums, and theme parks suitable for the whole family.

Below are some interesting sites located within reach of Union Station: