Union Station - Golden hour at Union Station in Washington, DC
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Union Station

4.3
·8k reviews·Washington, United States

A magnificent architectural landmark and bustling transportation hub, connecting cities and offering a grand experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier navigation.

CrowdLow
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Union Station - Golden hour at Union Station in Washington, DC

Union Station

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier navigation.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent architectural landmark and bustling transportation hub, connecting cities and offering a grand experience.

4.3
(8k reviews)

"The architecture of this railroad station makes it truly an amazing landmark. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Master the PATH

Use the PATH to connect to the Eaton Centre. Look for signs for Royal Bank Plaza or TD Centre. :walking:

📱 Download Amtrak App

Essential for checking real-time train status and avoiding missed connections due to delays. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Main Hall

Grand Main Hall

Main Entrance

Breathtaking arched golden ceilings and stained glass windows create a magnificent, awe-inspiring space. A true architectural marvel.

Reddit
Underground PATH Network

Underground PATH Network

Connecting to downtown Toronto

Explore miles of underground walkways connecting to shopping, dining, and other transit hubs like the Eaton Centre.

TikTok+1
Dodger Stadium Express

Dodger Stadium Express

Union Station West (Alameda Street)

A convenient and free bus service to Dodger Stadium on game days, departing from Union Station.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Navigate the PATH System

Union Station is a major hub, and the underground PATH system connects it to many downtown Toronto attractions. Familiarize yourself with the PATH map before you go to avoid getting lost, especially if heading to the Eaton Centre. TikTok+1

Check Train Status & Arrive Early

As Amtrak's home base, Union Station can be busy. Delays are common, so always check your train's status via the Amtrak app or station boards. Arriving at least 1-2 hours early is recommended, especially for Acela trains. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier navigation.
Crowd
Low
When
Game days (Dodger Stadium Express)
Why
Direct access to baseball.
Crowd
High
When
Evenings (for samples)
Why
Free samples available.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Highly requested path tutorial! From #unionstation to #eatoncentre BIG DISCLAIMER: HUDSONS BAY CLOSES AT 7PM so this method only works during this their store hours! #ttc #toronto #torontotiktok #torontoattack #torontotransitcommission #commuterlife #ttctipsthatwork #torontottc #torontopath #tutorial #saftey #dundassquare #torontometropolitanuniversity
@lil.nyxx
38.8K likes • 543.9K views

🎯 Master the PATH

Use the PATH to connect to the Eaton Centre. Look for signs for Royal Bank Plaza or TD Centre. TikTok+1 :walking:

📱 Download Amtrak App

Essential for checking real-time train status and avoiding missed connections due to delays. Reddit :iphone:

The best way to go to Dodger Stadium. Find out how! #gometro #dodgerstadiumexpress #metrolosangeles #dodgers #losangeles
@metrolosangeles
26K likes • 449.9K views
Union Station 🤝 Free Samples Here’s a sneak peek of all the exciting free samples we have going on at Union in September. See you there! ** Please Note - Hours may vary or be cut short due to sample availability #unionstation #torontounion #morethanastation #unionsamples #freesamples #freesamplestoronto
torontounion
4.4K likes • 394.5K views

⏳ Arrive Early for Trains

Plan to arrive 1-2 hours before your Amtrak train to allow time for boarding and potential delays. Reddit :clock1:

🛍️ Sample Saturdays

Check for free samples from vendors at Union Station on select days in September. Instagram :gift:

Platform 21? Day ruined #toronto #unionstation #trend #gotransit #transit #torontounion #foryou
ifreakinghateplatform21
5.8K likes • 112.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Master the PATH

Use the PATH to connect to the Eaton Centre. Look for signs for Royal Bank Plaza or TD Centre. TikTok+1 :walking:

📱 Download Amtrak App

Essential for checking real-time train status and avoiding missed connections due to delays. Reddit :iphone:

⏳ Arrive Early for Trains

Plan to arrive 1-2 hours before your Amtrak train to allow time for boarding and potential delays. Reddit :clock1:

🛍️ Sample Saturdays

Check for free samples from vendors at Union Station on select days in September. Instagram :gift:

🚇 Avoid Platform 21

Some travelers report negative experiences or delays associated with Platform 21. Instagram :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Union Station's breathtaking architecture, particularly the grand main hall, and its convenience as a transportation hub. The station is generally clean, well-lit, and feels safe due to a visible police presence. However, some find the boarding gate waiting areas less appealing than the main hall, and train delays can be a point of frustration. Reddit

"Clean, well lit, easy to navigate train station. Beautiful main hall. Capitol Building dome visible from front entry. Numerous food options. Amtrak ticketed passenger waiting room. Solid visible police presence (station feels safe). Well organized boarding process. Amtrak employee running the desk at waiting area was a joy. Staffing overall was helpful and friendly. Great overall experience."

John McDermott

"The architecture of this railroad station makes it truly an amazing landmark. The towering arched golden ceilings of the main hall at the entrance are breathtaking! They look especially magnificent combined with the stained glass window at sunset or under a bright blue sky. The grandeur and the blue-yellow-golden colors create something incredible.

My husband and I traveled from Philadelphia on the Amtrak high-speed train in just 2 hours. Tickets cost $15 per person to Washington and $10 per person back, which is very cheap. Naturally, we bought the tickets online in advance at that price."

Nika Navi

"A trip via Amtrak from DC to Philly is what brought us here.

What a beautiful train station this is! Hands down the most gorgeous of them all, outside and in. From the exterior, it looks like a government building or museum, especially being in DC. Step foot inside, and that main entry room will wow anyone with its high ceilings and grandness. There are a bunch of shops and restaurants within to satisfy almost everyone.

Upon arriving, we were met with a departure sign message of "delayed." So, we stood in line to speak to an agent. The female associate we got was as helpful as she could be, especially not knowing why or how long the train coming in was delayed for. She gave us some options but we ended up just waiting for our original train which wasn't delayed for very long.

The boarding gate waiting areas have a total opposite feel of the majestic entry area. Older decor, cramped, with not much seating. An Amtrak employee did keep us abreast of our train's ETA which was good of them to do.

The train platform was clean, with a helpful employee guiding boarding passengers.

FACT:
Union Station is Amtrak's home base."

Maui World Travelers

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Clean and safe environment
Convenient transit hub

What People Dislike

Train delays
Cramped waiting areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can use the underground PATH system. Head towards the Royal Bank Plaza or Toronto Dominion Centre from Union Station. This route is entirely underground and avoids street-level traffic. TikTok+2

Yes, the Dodger Stadium Express bus service operates from Union Station West on Alameda Street on game days. The bus is free with a game ticket. TikTok

Union Station is a major transit hub. In Toronto, it's served by TTC (subway and streetcar) and GO Transit trains. In Los Angeles, it's a key stop for Metro Rail lines. TikTok+1

Yes, Union Station is a major Amtrak hub, serving numerous routes across the country. You can also find Metra services in Chicago and GO Transit in Toronto. Reddit

The FlyAway bus service offers direct transportation from LA Union Station to LAX. Look for the FlyAway bus stop outside the station. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Amtrak tickets online in advance through the Amtrak website or app, which is often the cheapest option. Tickets can also be bought at the station. Reddit

Union Station is generally open 24/7 as a transportation hub, but specific shop and restaurant hours may vary. It's best to check individual business hours. Instagram

No, there is no fee to enter Union Station itself. It's a public transportation center. Fees would apply to train tickets or purchases within the station. Reddit

The Dodger Stadium Express bus is typically free with a game day ticket. You'll need to have your game ticket ready for boarding. TikTok

Union Station sometimes hosts events, including free samples from vendors, particularly in September. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements. Instagram

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Union Station generally has a visible police presence, contributing to a feeling of safety. However, like any major transit hub, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

You'll find numerous food options (McDonald's, Starbucks, Chick-fil-A), shops, restrooms, and Amtrak waiting areas. Some areas may have charging stations. Reddit

The architecture is a major highlight, especially the grand main hall with its towering arched golden ceilings and stained glass windows, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, Union Station offers a variety of dining options, including fast-food chains like McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks, as well as other eateries. Reddit

Check the Amtrak app or station departure boards for updates. The Amtrak ticketed passenger waiting room offers a place to sit, though some find the boarding gate waiting areas less comfortable. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Union Station offers a visually stimulating environment for families, especially the grand main hall with its impressive architecture. For families traveling by train, arriving early is key to managing any potential delays and ensuring a stress-free boarding experience. Reddit

In Toronto, the PATH system can be an adventure for kids, offering a unique underground exploration. However, keep an eye on younger children as it can get busy. For those heading to Dodger Stadium, the Dodger Stadium Express is a convenient and fun way to get to the game. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

Union Station offers several budget-friendly options. Traveling by Amtrak can be economical if booked in advance, with some routes costing as little as $10-$15 per person. Reddit The Dodger Stadium Express is a free service for game attendees. TikTok

For exploring downtown Toronto, utilizing the PATH system is free and allows you to access many areas without needing additional transit fares. Keep an eye out for free samples offered at Union Station, as highlighted on social media. Instagram

⚾ Baseball Fans (LA)

If you're heading to a Dodgers game, Union Station is your go-to starting point. The Dodger Stadium Express bus service departs from Union Station West on Alameda Street, offering a direct and free ride to the stadium on game days. TikTok

This service begins 90 minutes before game time, so plan accordingly. It's a highly recommended way to avoid parking hassles and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Toronto PATH System

Union Station is a crucial node in Toronto's extensive underground pedestrian walkway system, known as the PATH. This network connects the station to major downtown landmarks, including the Eaton Centre, office buildings, and other transit lines, allowing you to travel comfortably year-round, regardless of weather. TikTok+2

To navigate from Union Station to the Eaton Centre via the PATH, follow signs for the Royal Bank Plaza or Toronto Dominion Centre. While generally well-signed, it's advisable to have a PATH map handy, as the system can be extensive and a bit of a labyrinth for first-time visitors. TikTok Some users have noted that certain sections or exits might be closed after specific hours, especially if they lead through businesses with earlier closing times, like Hudson's Bay. TikTok

Using the PATH is a popular way to get steps in while staying dry and avoiding street-level congestion. It's a practical life hack for exploring downtown Toronto efficiently. TikTok+1

Amtrak Travel from Union Station

Union Station serves as Amtrak's headquarters, making it a primary departure and arrival point for numerous train routes. Travelers often praise the station's cleanliness, organization, and the helpfulness of Amtrak employees. The main hall's stunning architecture is a significant draw, offering a grand and impressive start or end to a journey. Reddit

However, train delays are a common occurrence, and it's crucial to stay informed. The Amtrak app is highly recommended for real-time updates. Travelers suggest arriving at least 1-2 hours before your scheduled departure, especially for longer journeys or if you're unfamiliar with the station, to account for potential delays and ensure a smooth boarding process. Reddit

While the main hall is majestic, some reviews mention that the boarding gate waiting areas can feel older and more cramped with less seating compared to the grand entrance. Despite this, staff often keep passengers informed about train ETAs. Reddit

Union Station as a Transportation Hub

Union Station is more than just a train station; it's a vital transportation center. In Toronto, it's a nexus for GO Transit trains and buses, as well as the TTC subway and streetcar lines, making it incredibly convenient for commuters and tourists alike. TikTok+1

In Los Angeles, Union Station is a key stop for the Metro Rail system, including the Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line, and the Patsaouris. It also serves as the departure point for the Dodger Stadium Express bus on game days, offering a direct and free connection for baseball fans. TikTok

The station's connectivity extends to airport access, with services like the FlyAway bus connecting LA Union Station directly to LAX, further solidifying its role as a comprehensive transit hub. TikTok

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