Washington Union Railway Station

Washington Union Station is not merely a major transport hub, but a magnificent architectural landmark in the Beaux-Arts style, serving as the main gateway to the US capital. Located just a few blocks from the Capitol, this majestic complex integrates railway services, the metro, bus lines, and a vast shopping centre. Every year, millions of passengers and tourists pass through its halls, admiring the soaring vaults and the historic atmosphere of this grand edifice.

Important for passengers: The station is immense and features multiple levels. The Main Hall is used for transit and events, while the gates to the trains (Amtrak, MARC, VRE) are located in the Concourse area. The metro station is situated on the lower level. For navigation, follow the signs for "Trains" and "Metro". Entrances to the building are available from Massachusetts Avenue (main entrance), as well as from side streets and the car park.

• Official website: unionstationdc.com
• Information desk: +1 (202) 289-1908 (general information), +1 (800) 872-7245 (Amtrak)
• Address: 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
• Opening hours: The station building is open 24/7, however, shops and the food court typically operate from 10:00 to 21:00 (until 18:00 on Sundays). Ticket counters have their own schedules.
• Luggage storage: Service is available via Tiburon Lockers, located near Gate A.
• Accessibility: The station is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility (lifts, ramps, accessible washrooms, Red Cap assistance services).

Getting to Union Station is very straightforward, as it serves as the heart of the city's transport system.

Public Transport: The most convenient method is the Washington Metro (Metrorail). You need the Red Line, and the station is called "Union Station". The popular DC Circulator bus (Georgetown — Union Station route) and numerous city Metrobus lines also stop here.

Taxis and Cars: The taxi rank and pick-up zone for ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) are located in front of the building's main façade. A trip from the city centre will take approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic.

On Foot: You can walk to the station from the Capitol and the National Mall in 10–20 minutes, enjoying the views of the city.

Washington Union Station offers passengers a full range of modern amenities. The building houses ticket counters and self-service kiosks for Amtrak trains and commuter rail services (MARC, VRE). Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises.

For a comfortable wait, there are general seating areas, while the ClubAcela lounge is available for business class and Amtrak sleeper car passengers. The station features ATMs, currency exchange bureaux, and a post office. Washrooms are located on several levels and are kept clean.

Special attention is paid to passengers with limited mobility: lifts are operational, and the Red Cap assistance service (porters) is available, which can be requested in advance or found at the entrance.

The gastronomic opportunities at the station are impressive: there are over 35 dining establishments here, ranging from quick bites to full-service restaurants.

Quick Bites: An extensive food court is located on the lower level, featuring popular chains (Shake Shack, Chipotle, Roti, and others). It is an ideal spot for an affordable meal with an average cost of 10–15 dollars.

Coffee and Desserts: For your morning coffee, visit Starbucks, Blue Bottle Coffee, or Pret A Manger, which open early in the morning. The famous bakery Ladurée offers exquisite macarons.

If you have time, you can visit sit-down restaurants with historic interiors, such as the seafood restaurant or the Italian café.

The history of Washington Union Station began in 1907. Designed by the renowned architect Daniel Burnham, it became the embodiment of the "City Beautiful" movement and, at the time of its opening, was the largest railway station in the world, covering an area of over 200 acres (approx. 80 hectares).

In the mid-20th century, with the rise of aviation, the station fell into decline. In 1976, an unsuccessful attempt was made to transform it into a National Visitor Center, but the project failed. Its revival began in the 1980s: following a massive renovation costing 160 million dollars, the station reopened in 1988 as a transport and retail complex.

In 2011, the building suffered damage from an earthquake but was meticulously restored, reclaiming its status as one of Washington's most beautiful historical landmarks.

Arrival: It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 45 minutes before your train departs, especially if you need to check in luggage or are travelling during public holidays.

Boarding: Track numbers (Gate/Track) are announced 15–20 minutes before departure. Keep a close watch on the information boards in the waiting hall. You are often required to show your ticket to a staff member at the platform gate for boarding.

Safety: The station is well-guarded by Amtrak police and security services. However, do not leave your belongings unattended. At night (after the metro closes), it is best to wait for your train in the designated areas inside the building.

Luggage: Remember that Amtrak trains have luggage weight and size restrictions similar to airlines, though generally more lenient.