New London Union Station
Historic regional rail station in New London, CT, known for its beautiful architecture and role as an Amtrak & Shoreline East hub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Enjoy the harbor and town
New London Union Station
Best Time
Enjoy the harbor and town
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic regional rail station in New London, CT, known for its beautiful architecture and role as an Amtrak & Shoreline East hub.
"Pretty station building, but almost everything is off limits. No loitering in the waiting area!"
🎟️ Ticket Required for Entry
Access to waiting areas & restrooms is limited to ticketed passengers or food purchasers. Plan ahead!
🚶 Explore Nearby Harbor
Enjoy the New London Harbor or downtown attractions while waiting for your train.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Station Architecture
Main concourse
Admire the spacious and beautiful interior and exterior of this historic regional rail station.
Amtrak & Shoreline East Hub
Platforms
Witness Acela trains and other Amtrak services, a key stop for regional rail travel.
New London Harbor Views
Near the station
Enjoy scenic views of the harbor, a pleasant spot to explore while awaiting your train.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Station Access
Explore Beyond the Platform
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ticket Required for Entry
Access to waiting areas & restrooms is limited to ticketed passengers or food purchasers. Plan ahead!
🚶 Explore Nearby Harbor
Enjoy the New London Harbor or downtown attractions while waiting for your train.
Want to go to New London for a visit while in the area. What to do/see/eat?
🌃 Safe After Dark
Station is well-lit and has security presence, making it feel safe at night.
🍻 Late Night Option
If waiting late, the bar across the street is an option after 10 PM.
Moving to New London, any suggestions to fun locations that are also safe?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket Required for Entry
Access to waiting areas & restrooms is limited to ticketed passengers or food purchasers. Plan ahead!
🚶 Explore Nearby Harbor
Enjoy the New London Harbor or downtown attractions while waiting for your train.
🌃 Safe After Dark
Station is well-lit and has security presence, making it feel safe at night.
🍻 Late Night Option
If waiting late, the bar across the street is an option after 10 PM.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
New London Union Station is praised for its beautiful historic architecture and the helpfulness of its staff. It's considered a safe and well-lit station, especially at night. However, a significant drawback is the restricted access to waiting areas and restrooms, which are only available to ticketed passengers or those making a purchase.
"Great station with lots of history - staff
Know a lot about building and are super helpful on top of that! Feels safe at night because it’s well lit and always has some type of security presence. Late night (after 10p) waiting area not open so be prepared, can always walk across the street to the bar for a quick snack too."
Catalina Sears
"I like the station’s atmosphere, but I literally can’t go in to sit down unless I have a ticket. I can’t even get into a bathroom. Really?"
sqpizzareviews
"Pretty station building, but almost everything is off limits. No loitering in the waiting area! No sitting unless you have a train ticket or unless you buy food. No restrooms available, even to passengers."
Sam Meyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
New London Union Station (NLC) is a major hub for Amtrak and Shoreline East trains, making it easily accessible by rail from various cities along the Northeast Corridor. If driving, there is parking available nearby, though it can be busy.
Yes, parking is available near the station, but it can get crowded, especially during peak travel times. Consider ride-sharing services or public transport if possible.
Besides Amtrak and Shoreline East, local bus services may also connect to the station area, providing further public transport options for reaching New London Union Station.
The area around New London Union Station offers views of the New London Harbor and access to downtown attractions, making it pleasant for a stroll.
As a major transit hub, the station is generally accessible for travelers with mobility needs, though specific platform access should be confirmed with Amtrak.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, access to the waiting areas and restrooms at New London Union Station is restricted to individuals with a valid train ticket or those who purchase food from the station's concessions.
The late-night waiting area is not open after 10 PM. Be prepared to wait outside or find an alternative if your train is scheduled for very late arrival or departure.
Unfortunately, restrooms are not available to those without a train ticket or who haven't purchased food at the station.
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the Amtrak or Shoreline East websites, or at ticket counters if available at the station.
There are no general admission fees to enter the public areas of New London Union Station, but access to amenities like seating and restrooms requires a ticket or purchase.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While waiting, you can admire the station's historic architecture, explore the nearby New London Harbor, or visit downtown attractions.
The station is reported to be well-lit and has a security presence, contributing to a feeling of safety even at night.
While specific concessions might vary, purchasing food is one way to gain access to seating and restrooms within the station.
New London Union Station serves as a key stop for Amtrak, including the Acela Express, and also for Shoreline East commuter rail services.
No, loitering in the waiting area without a ticket or purchase is generally not permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the historic architecture of New London Union Station offers great opportunities for photography, both inside and out.
Trainspotting and photography of trains, like the Acela, are popular activities at New London Union Station.
Experiment with wide shots of the concourse and exterior, as well as details of the architectural elements for compelling photos.
While generally permitted, be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography, especially of staff or security personnel.
Daytime offers natural light for architectural shots, while evenings can provide interesting lighting conditions, though access might be limited.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of New London Union Station
Visitors often remark on the station's atmosphere, noting its historical significance. While access to certain areas is restricted, the visual appeal of the building itself is a draw. The station's design emphasizes grandeur and efficiency, reflecting the era in which it was built. It's a place where the past of rail travel feels palpable, offering a unique glimpse into the history of transportation in Connecticut.
Navigating Access and Amenities
This restriction means that if you don't have a ticket, your options for waiting comfortably or using facilities are limited. Many travelers suggest utilizing the time to explore the surrounding New London Harbor or the downtown area, which offers more public amenities. For those who do have tickets, the station provides a safe and well-lit environment, even late at night, though the waiting area itself closes after 10 PM.
Trainspotting and Regional Rail
For those interested in trainspotting, the station offers opportunities to see different types of rolling stock and experience the hustle and bustle of a busy rail hub. The presence of both long-distance Amtrak services and commuter-focused Shoreline East trains provides a diverse rail experience. It's a place where the rhythm of travel is dictated by the schedules of these important services.
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