Key Highlights
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Step into the famous Great Hall at Union Station. It has tall columns and marble floors that help make it a well-known Chicago landmark.
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Union Station is Amtrak’s main Midwest hub. It connects Amtrak passengers to many places in the United States.
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Try out the Metropolitan Lounge if you can. The lounge gives you a good place to relax with handy features for eligible travelers.
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The station sits in the busy West Loop neighborhood. You can get to the best places in downtown Chicago fast from here.
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Get ready for your trip with ease. You can take care of tickets and bags, and board Amtrak or Metra trains without trouble.
Introduction
Welcome to Chicago Union Station. This famous train station sits right in the middle of downtown Chicago. It is more than just a place to catch a train. The station is a landmark that brings you into the heart of the city and connects you to places all over the country. Union Station stretches across almost ten city blocks. It is always busy, with amazing old-style buildings and all the things modern travelers need. If you want to travel across the country, head to work, or just pass by, you will find everything you need here to make your trip smooth in 2026.
Overview of Chicago Union Station
Chicago Union Station is a well-known downtown terminal in the United States. This Chicago landmark was designed by Daniel Burnham and it first opened in 1925. People are still impressed by its size and beauty today. The main spot here is the Great Hall, which is a very large and wonderful space. When you walk into the Great Hall, you may feel like you have gone back in time.
This station is an important part of travel in the State of Illinois. Millions of people use it every year to get where they need to go. If you know more about how it is set up and its history, you will enjoy your visit more. Now, let’s take a look at where it sits in the city and all the amazing things you can see inside, like the Great Hall.
Location and Accessibility in Downtown Chicago
You can find Union Station at 225 S Canal Street in the West Loop neighborhood. It sits on the west side of the Chicago River. The station is right in the central business district. It is straight across from Willis Tower. You will also see that big highways like I-90, I-94, and I-290 are close by. This means you can get there fast in a car.
It is very easy to travel to Union Station if you use public transit. The “L” train stops at stations near the station. Clinton and Quincy are both about five minutes away on foot. This direct connection makes it easy for you to reach the west loop area and Chicago River spot from other parts of the city.
Union Station is right on several CTA bus lines as well. Buses like the 7, 60, 124, 151, and 157 all stop right in front. With all these options, it is easy for just about anyone to get to their train on time. It does not matter if you live here or if this is your first visit.
Architectural Highlights and Historical Significance
When you walk into Chicago Union Station, you will see its grand Beaux-Arts look right away. The Chicago Union Station Company made this station. Daniel Burnham, a well-known architect, came up with the idea for it. He did not get to see it finished, but his team made sure it opened in 1925.
The most well-known part inside Union Station is the Great Hall. This waiting room has a ceiling that goes up 110 feet, big Corinthian columns, and shiny marble floors. The room feels special and also looks stunning. Many people come here to feel the soft, natural light that shows off the old details each day. This area is more than a waiting room—people see it as a real place to visit.
The big, beautiful design of Union Station shows how people dreamed big during the early 1900s when train rides felt fancy. It still stands strong, giving people a look back at Chicago’s history. At the same time, it is still a busy travel spot for all who pass through.
Navigating the Station as a First-Time Visitor
Chicago Union Station is a big place, but it is easy to get around once you know the layout. The main entrance is on Canal Street. This entrance takes you right into the station at street level. Here, you will walk into the beautiful Great Hall. After that, just go down one level. You will reach the concourse level, which is where every train leaves.
There is clear signage on how to move around, but it is good to know how things are set up. The station makes sure that the big waiting areas are kept separate from the busy platforms below. Here are some tips that will help you get the most out of the entrances and the way union station is set up.
Main Entrances and Wayfinding Tips
The main entrance to Union Station is on Canal Street. It sits between West Adams Street and West Jackson Boulevard. If you take a taxi or rideshare, they will drop you off here. When you walk in, you will be in the Great Hall. To get your train, you need to go down to the concourse level.
To find your way, look for signs that say “All Trains.” These signs take you from the Great Hall to the North and South Concourses. These are the spots where the train gates are. You will see lots of signs showing you the way, so watch for directions that say Amtrak or Metra, based on which one you are using.
Here are some tips to help you find your way:
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Give Yourself Time: Union Station is big. Get there early, so you don’t need to hurry. This is helpful if you have not been here before.
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Check the Boards: In the concourses, there are boards that show all train gate info. Train gates go up around 15 minutes before your train leaves.
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Use the Information Desk: If you get lost, stop by the Amtrak information desk in the Great Hall. The staff will help you get where you need to go.
Layout: Ticketing, Waiting Areas, and Boarding Gates
Knowing how the station is set up will help you have a good trip. The main waiting room for people is called the Great Hall. Here, you can find a lot of spots to sit. If you need some help, there is a quiet assisted boarding area you can use before your train.
After spending time in the Great Hall, you will go to the concourse level. This is where you find the boarding gates. The station has a North Concourse and a South Concourse. These serve different Metra and Amtrak lines. You can check your ticket or look at the boards to see which concourse and gate you should go to for your train.
It is easy to get your tickets here. You will see Amtrak ticket counters in the Great Hall. If you need a Metra ticket, you can find the counters on the concourse level. Keeping them in different places helps move people along, and it makes it easy to find the spot you need for your trip.
Train Services at Chicago Union Station
Chicago Union Station is an important place for passenger rail services. It stands out as a main hub for travel. Union Station is the most important spot for Amtrak in the Midwest. From here, you can reach cities all across the United States. You can get on long-distance Amtrak trains that go to the East Coast, West Coast, and the South.
Along with Amtrak trains, this station is also very important for Metra commuter rail. Metra trains help people get from downtown Chicago to places in the suburbs across northeast Illinois. Now, let’s see the routes that both Amtrak and Metra offer.
Amtrak Long-Distance and Midwest Routes
Amtrak services at Union Station connect you to the entire country. Famous long-distance routes begin their journeys here, including the California Zephyr to the Bay Area, renowned for its beautiful scenery. Other major routes include the Lake Shore Limited to New York City and Boston, and the City of New Orleans heading down to the Big Easy.
The station is also the starting point for the Empire Builder to Seattle and Portland, the Southwest Chief to Los Angeles, and the Texas Eagle to San Antonio. With these options, you can embark on an epic cross-country adventure right from the heart of Chicago.
Here are some of the top Amtrak routes departing from Union Station:
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Destination |
Daily Trips |
Avg. Time |
Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Milwaukee |
14 |
1h 30m |
$25.00 |
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St. Louis |
5 |
6h 6m |
$40.50 |
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Detroit |
3 |
7h 3m |
$50.24 |
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Champaign |
3 |
3h 28m |
$22.42 |
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New York |
1 |
1d 18h 46m |
$240.23 |
Metra Commuter Rail Lines
For trips around the area, you can use the Metra commuter rail at Union Station. Metra is a part of the Regional Transportation Authority. With this rail line, you can get from downtown Chicago to many suburbs in Northeast Illinois. The Metra commuter rail is great for people who need to travel every day or for those who want to see more of the area.
There are six Metra lines that leave from Union Station. These go from both the North and South Concourses. The lines are BNSF Railway, Heritage Corridor, Milwaukee District North to Fox Lake, Milwaukee District West to Elgin, North Central Service to Antioch, and SouthWest Service to Manhattan.
You can use the Metra commuter rail if you want to get to a nearby town for work or take time to see more of Chicago. The Metra rail makes it easy to get around. It is good to look at the schedules before you travel, as train times may change on the weekend.
Ticketing and Reservations
Getting your tickets at Chicago Union Station is easy. There are a few ways to do it, which helps make travel smooth for everyone. If you are taking Amtrak services or riding Metra, you can buy your tickets at the station. You can also make your plans and reservations before you get there.
It’s smart to plan early, especially if you are using long-distance Amtrak services. These usually need reservations. But, if you want, you can still get a ticket on the same day you travel. Here is where you can go and how you can pick the way that works best to get your seat.
Where to Buy Tickets for Amtrak and Metra
Finding where to get tickets in the station is easy when you know the layout. For Amtrak passengers, you will find the main ticket sales office in the great hall. It is close to the main entrance. At this place, you can talk to the agents, make your reservations, and take care of your travel needs.
If you travel with Metra, you will see the Metra ticket desks on the concourse level. These are right by the Metra platforms. This helps people quickly get their tickets before they go to board the train.
Also, Amtrak and Metra have self-service kiosks all over the station. These Quik-Trak machines are good if you just want a basic ticket fast and do not need help.
Online Booking, Mobile Options, and On-Site Counters
In today’s world, you have many ways to book train trips. To make it simple, you can go online and use the Amtrak or Metra websites. When you do, you get to look at schedules, pick a seat, and pay right at home.
Another easy way is mobile ticketing. You just use apps like the official Amtrak app or Wanderu to book tickets on your phone. The tickets be saved on your device, so you don’t need paper and can go to your gate fast. If you take the train a lot, you might want to join amtrak guest rewards for special offers and smoother booking.
But if you like to buy your ticket in person or want to pay with cash, you can always go to the counter at the station.
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Online Reservations: Book tickets early on the Amtrak or Metra websites.
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Mobile Apps: Use the Amtrak app or travel apps for mobile ticketing.
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On-Site Options: Go to the ticket sales office or use a kiosk at the station.
Amenities and Passenger Services
Chicago Union Station has many things to help you have a good trip. There are a lot of dining choices, exclusive lounges, baggage service, and areas for families, so the station is ready for all your needs.
The public spaces at the station make it easy for you to relax. You will feel fine waiting here, whether you need a short stop or you have to stay for a longer time. If you want something nicer, the Metropolitan Lounge is there for you. It gives you a quiet, calm place to get away from the busy crowds.
Let’s see what food, lounges, and important services like baggage service you can find at union station.
Food, Dining, and Refreshment Options
Feeling hungry? You can find lots of food choices at Union Station. Most of them are in the food court on the mezzanine level. This level is just a quick escalator ride up from the main floor. If you want a quick snack or a full meal, you will get what you like here.
If you are in a hurry, there are fast-food spots like McDonald’s and Jersey Mike’s. These are good for grabbing a fast bite before you get on your train. This is great when you do not have much time or want something you know and like.
If you can wait a little, you may sit down for a meal at a full-service place like the Junction Diner or Robinsons. After you eat, you can also walk around and try more food spots in the West Loop neighborhood.
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McDonald’s
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Jersey Mike’s
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Junction Diner
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Robinsons
Lounges, Restrooms, and Family Facilities
There are many comfortable waiting areas at Union Station. The Great Hall is the main waiting room for everyone. For those who want something special, the Metropolitan Lounge is there. This premium lounge is open to Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Executive and Select Plus members. Private room customers can use it, too. You can also get in by buying a single-visit pass, which costs $35. In this lounge, you will find cozy chairs, snacks, and showers.
You will find restrooms easily in the station. Some are on the concourse level near the south side of the Great Hall, next to the Metra ticketing desk, and in the assisted boarding area. There are also more restrooms on the mezzanine level and inside the Metropolitan Lounge.
If you are traveling with children or someone who needs extra help, the station has family facilities and an assisted boarding area. This space is on the east side of the station. It is quieter, and seniors, military personnel, and families can wait here before they get on their train.
Baggage, Lost & Found, and Storage Services
Taking care of your bags at Union Station is simple with its baggage service. If you are traveling a long way on Amtrak, you can check your bags in before your trip. You need to get there at least an hour before your train leaves to check your bags. The Red Cap baggage staff can help carry your luggage, and this service is free for all passengers.
If you have a long wait and want to get out and see the city, you can leave your baggage at the luggage storage. This works like “left luggage” and you can find it at the Amtrak parcel check. There is a fee for this. Amtrak passengers pay $10 for each item, and all other travelers pay $20 for each item. It’s a good way to not carry your bags when you go around Chicago.
If you lose something, the Lost & Found office can try to help you get it back. There are no lockers like in some places, but the bag storage with staff lets you leave your things somewhere safe.
Accessibility and Traveler Support
Chicago Union Station wants to give great support and access to all travelers. The station follows ADA rules fully. It has many services to help the people with disabilities, seniors, and families have a simple trip.
There is wheelchair access, and staff there always ready to help you. The station is made to be open and easy to get around. Here are some more details on the services, so all passengers can travel with confidence and comfort at union station.
Wheelchair Access and Services for Travelers with Disabilities
For people who have disabilities, Chicago Union Station does a good job of making things easy to get to. The main entrance is on South Canal Street. You can use this entrance without any trouble if you use a wheelchair. There are elevators that take you from the street level to the concourse level. So, there is a clear path from the drop-off spot to the train platform.
When you are inside union station, you will see restrooms that can fit a wheelchair. There is also a ticket office you can get to, and a waiting room that is easy to use. The goal is to make your trip easy and good in every way. If your train does not have a ramp, there is a wheelchair lift to help you get on. The staff will get you a wheelchair if you need it to go around the station.
Passenger assistance is there for you every day from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM. If you want help, try to come to union station at least an hour before your train leaves. This lets the staff give you the help you need, so you can travel without stress.
Assistance for Seniors and Families
Seniors and families who are traveling with young children can get helpful support at union station. The station has an assisted boarding area. This space is on the east side, between the North and South Concourses. It helps you board the train in a calmer and more organized way, away from the main crowds.
Red Cap staff are there to assist passengers for free. They help with carrying your bags. They also offer courtesy wheelchairs when you need them. This makes it easy to get around union station, especially if you have heavy bags or need help to move.
These family-friendly facilities and support services help travelers of every age use union station with ease. If you qualify, the metropolitan lounge gives you a quiet and comfy place to rest before your trip. It’s a nice area where families and seniors can relax before traveling.
Practical Information for Travelers
It helps to have useful details before you go to Union Station. When you know the hours it is open, the safety steps there, and how to park or take city transit, your visit can be easy and smooth.
This info helps no matter if you come by car, bus, or the “L” train. That way, you know what to expect when you get there. Below, you’ll find the main things you need to know. This includes times for the station, safety facts, ways to park, and your local travel options. Use these details to get ready for your trip.
Station Hours, Security, and Safety Protocols
Chicago Union Station stays open for people every day. The station has long hours, but each service runs on its own schedule. You can use the main waiting room from 5:30 AM to 11:59 PM every day. This gives you time to catch both early and late trains.
There are security people at the station to keep things safe. As with other big places, it’s smart to watch out for your stuff and know what is going on around you. To make your trip easier, Amtrak says you should try to get there at least 30 minutes before your train if you do not need help. If you need someone from the staff or want to check your bags, try to come 60 minutes earlier.
Here are the main hours you need to know for union station:
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Waiting Room: 5:30 AM – 11:59 PM, Daily
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Ticket Office: 6:00 AM – 9:20 PM, Daily
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Checked Baggage Service: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM, Daily
Parking, Pick-Up/Drop-Off, and Public Transit Connections
While Union Station does not have parking right on the spot, you can still easily find the right place to leave your car close by. The nearest place is a self-park garage at 333 S Clinton Street. If you want something even easier, try valet parking at 565 Quincy Street on weekdays.
To pick up or drop off people, head to the main entrance on South Canal Street. This is the best spot for that. Taxis line up here, and rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are always ready, day or night. This helps you get in and out fast.
Union Station is a big spot for getting around with public transit. The Union Station Transit Center links you to many CTA bus routes, like the 7, 60, 124, 151, and 157. If you want to take the “L” train, the Clinton and Quincy stops are close and make it simple to reach the rest of Chicago.
Events, Tours, and Local Attractions
Chicago Union Station is more than a spot to hop on a train. It’s like a small trip all by itself. The union station is known for spaces that look good and feel classic, like the great hall. Many people use the great hall for their big events. You might see a fancy party or a work get-together there.
Because the union station sits in downtown, it’s easy to get started on sightseeing in A-nice-Chicago. If you are in the city for a short stop or plan to explore, there is a lot waiting for you close by. You can walk out the union station and find things to see and do right away.
Guided Tours and Special Events at Union Station
You can always walk through union station on your own, even if there are different formal guided tours at times. The great hall is there for you to explore and look at its beautiful design. This chicago landmark has a big, old feel that makes it interesting for anyone to visit and see for themselves.
Many people book the station’s large event spaces for big or small gatherings. Union station brings people together for weddings, special parties, and holiday events. Try to check local event listings when you come by, because there might be something going on inside those historic walls.
The chicago union station master plan study is still happening. This plan is meant to save and improve this famous spot, so it can be a lively place for travel and community fun for years ahead. This effort shows that union station will keep getting better as an important chicago landmark.
Sightseeing and Things to Do Near Union Station
Union Station sits in the active West Loop neighborhood. The area is busy and full of things to see and do. You do not have to go far from union station to find some of the best places in the city. In a few minutes, you can walk to the chicago river or visit world-famous museums.
You can cross the river and get to the well-known Willis Tower. There, you can check out the Skydeck and see the city spread out before you. If you want to spend a little more time here, Millennium Park is close too. It’s about a mile from union station and is where you can find “The Bean” sculpture and nice public spaces.
Some of the top spots close to the station are:
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Willis Tower: A quick 5-minute walk for great city sights.
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Millennium Park: Walk a mile to see “The Bean” and enjoy green public spaces.
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Art Institute of Chicago: Just under a mile away. This museum has something for anyone who likes art.
Conclusion
Chicago Union Station is more than just a place to catch a train. The station has a lot of history and its design stands out. You will find many things to use and see while you’re here. The station is a great starting point for anyone visiting the city. When you make plans to visit, keep in mind the tips that help you get around. You can also find plenty to do close by. It doesn’t matter if the trip is for work or free time—union station will stay with you after you go. If you want more info or someone to help plan your trip, reach out for a free consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the busiest hours at Chicago Union Station?
Union Station is busiest during weekday mornings and evenings, from 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM. These busy times happen because many people use the Metra commuter rail. The concourse level can also fill up with people on holiday weekends and when amtrak passengers travel a lot.
Are there lockers or luggage storage at the station?
Yes, you can keep your bags at Union Station. Amtrak customers can use the Amtrak parcel check and pay $10 for each bag. If you are not an Amtrak customer, the cost is $20 for each bag. This gives a safe place to put your things at Union Station. You can use this option while you wait or see the city.
Can you access Wi-Fi and charging stations at Union Station?
Yes, you can get free Wi-Fi at Chicago Union Station. It is open to all visitors, but the signal might be weak in some areas. This is true for union station and other public spaces in the station. There are not many places to charge your phone or laptop if you are in the main station area. The Metropolitan Lounge gives you better options. There, you will find a stronger internet connection and more places to charge your devices. This is helpful for travelers who want to relax or work before leaving.