Key Highlights
Welcome to your simple guide to the Pittsburgh Amtrak Station. This Union Station is full of history, and it’s a good starting point for travel. Here is what you should know before you go:
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The amtrak station sits right in downtown Pittsburgh, so you can get to the city’s top spots with ease.
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You can catch big train routes from here, like the Pennsylvanian, which goes to New York, and the Floridian.
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The station has key amenities you will use, such as a waiting room that is comfy, a baggage service for checked bags, and a spot where you can buy tickets.
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Here, you will be in the old Pennsylvania Station. Many people come to see its beautiful rotunda.
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There are access services for people who need help, so everyone can have a smooth travel experience.
This Pittsburgh amtrak site keeps travel simple. You get nice amenities and can see part of Pennsylvania history.
Introduction
Are you planning to travel by train to or from Pittsburgh? The Pittsburgh Amtrak Station is an important spot in the city’s Golden Triangle. It gives people a unique and nice travel experience. This guide will help you see everything, from how to get around the old amtrak station, to how you can find your train, and what to do near the area. It does not matter if you are someone who goes to work every day or someone coming for the first time. You will get all the info you need to make your trip simple and fun. Be ready to enjoy the ease and charm of traveling by amtrak in pittsburgh.
Getting to Pittsburgh Amtrak Union Station
Getting to the Pittsburgh Amtrak Union Station is easy. The station is at 1100 Liberty Avenue. It is right in the center of the city, so you can get there by car, on public transit, or just walk from downtown. Its spot near big city places makes it a good place to start your trip.
You have some good ways to reach the union station. The Pittsburgh Regional Transit has buses and other options that stop close to the pittsburgh station. You can also use a rideshare or get a taxi right to the main entrance. In the next parts, we will talk more about simple directions and getting there with different kinds of transit, so you get to pittsburgh amtrak on time and without stress.
Station Location and Directions
Your journey starts at 1100 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. This spot puts you right at the north side of Downtown Pittsburgh’s well-known Golden Triangle. You are a short walk from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center and the Senator John Heinz History Center.
The station sits just behind the impressive building that used to be the Pennsylvania Railroad. You will see the grand old rotunda on Liberty Avenue. It stands out as a landmark. The main building now has condos, but the Amtrak spots for travelers are in a new and easy-to-find place at the back of this classic union station.
You can get into the main waiting room straight from the parking lot on the lower level. Or, you can walk on a covered path up on the second floor of the building, then take either the escalator or the stairs down to the ground floor waiting room. This two-level way to enter follows how the original Union Station was planned.
If you are traveling in Pittsburgh, the waiting room, union station, rotunda, and the nearby convention center are all close by and easy to reach.
Public Transit and Rideshare Options
Getting to the station with public transit is easy in Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) system has lots of bus and light rail options that cover the city and the surrounding areas. Many stops are close to the station. This way to travel is both cheaper and better for the environment.
There are also many regional bus lines that go to downtown Pittsburgh. These bus services include:
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Beaver County Transit Authority
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Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation
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Mid Mon Valley Transit
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Westmoreland Transit
You can also use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft anywhere in Pittsburgh. These companies give you an easy way to get right to the station. Taxis work well too if you need a fast and simple ride. With all these options, you can pick what works best for your budget or your time.
Overview of Pittsburgh Amtrak Union Station
The Pittsburgh station is more than just a place where people catch the train. It is a special part of the city’s past that is still here today. The main name for it is Union Station, but many people call it Pennsylvania Station. The reason for this name is the station’s link to the famous Pennsylvania Railroad, or PRR. Today, there is a working amtrak station inside the old building. The new amtrak part is attached to this historic site, which has been in Pittsburgh for more than 100 years.
This mix of old and new style gives people a one-of-a-kind time when they use the station. You get the speed and use of a modern amtrak station. At the same time, you are in a building that is one of the most well-known in Pittsburgh. Now, let’s take a look at the rich story of the station and see what makes its design stand out.
Architectural Highlights and Historical Facts
The old Pennsylvania Station building is known as one of the finest works by Daniel Burnham, who was a famous architect in America. He played a big role in how cities in the country look today. The building went up from 1898 to 1903. It is a great example of the neo-Baroque look. You can see brown brick on the outside and a lot of detailed terracotta decorations. One thing that really stands out is the entrance rotunda. There is a big dome in this spot where people in carriages used to drop off passengers.
The building’s design tells much about pittsburgh and how life was back then.
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The rotunda holds a dome with square shapes on it and has a skylight in the center. Four large arches hold up the dome.
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You can see plaques made of terracotta that show the four main cities of the pennsylvania railroad—Philadelphia, new york, chicago, and “Pittsburg” (they left the “h” off the end of the name at that time).
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There are three levels in the main building. People’s baggage went in the basement. Traveler spaces were found in the upper floors.
Now, most of this pennsylvania station is turned into living spaces, but you can still go see the rotunda. It is open to everyone. Both the main building and the rotunda are on the national register of historic places. They will be there for us and later families to visit and enjoy.
Hours of Operation and Traveler Services
To help you plan your travel, it’s important to know the station’s hours and available services. The station staff is on hand during operating hours to provide ticketing assistance, baggage service, and answer any questions you may have. The station is equipped with a ticket office, Quik-Trak kiosks for self-service, and vending machines for light snacks.
The waiting room, ticket office, passenger assistance, and checked baggage services operate on a split schedule every day of the week. This unique schedule is designed to accommodate the arrival and departure times of the trains that serve Pittsburgh. Always be sure to check the latest schedule before your trip.
Here are the detailed hours of operation for key services at the station:
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Service |
Hours of Operation (Monday – Sunday) |
|---|---|
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Waiting Room |
12:00 am – 7:45 am & 6:00 pm – 11:59 pm |
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Ticket Office |
12:00 am – 7:45 am & 6:00 pm – 11:59 pm |
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Passenger Assistance |
12:00 am – 7:45 am & 6:00 pm – 11:59 pm |
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Checked Baggage Service |
12:00 am – 7:45 am & 6:00 pm – 11:59 pm |
Train Routes and Destinations from Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Amtrak station is an important spot for train travel between the East Coast and the Midwest. If you want to visit a big city or a small town, the train is a good, easy, and scenic way to go. You can start your trip right from Pittsburgh and head across Pennsylvania or leave the state for new places.
Amtrak gives people reliable trips on main routes that stop in the city. It makes it simple for people to plan both short getaways and long travel. These train lines from the pittsburgh amtrak station make it easy for business and vacation trips. Now, let’s look at some top train lines and popular stops you can get to from this amtrak station in Pennsylvania and other places in the midwest.
Major Amtrak Lines and Popular Destinations
From Pittsburgh, you can access two major Amtrak lines that connect you to some of the nation’s most exciting cities. The Pennsylvanian route is a popular choice for travelers heading east, offering daily service across the state. The Floridian route also serves the station, expanding your travel possibilities. This connectivity makes Pittsburgh a key stop for cross-country rail travel.
These routes provide direct or connecting service to major hubs like New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Chicago. Whether you’re planning a business trip to the nation’s capital or a vacation in the Big Apple, your journey can start right here in Pittsburgh.
Below are the primary Amtrak lines serving Pittsburgh and their key destinations:
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Route Name |
Key Destinations |
|---|---|
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Pennsylvanian |
Philadelphia, Newark, New York City |
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Floridian |
Connects to Washington, D.C. and points south |
Ticketing, Schedules, and Booking Tips
Booking your trip from Pittsburgh is easy, and you have more than one option to get your tickets. You can go to the ticket office during the hours it is open. There is also a Quik-Trak machine inside the station, so you can print tickets there. For the best way to get your tickets, just go online to Amtrak.com. You can also use the Amtrak app on your phone. The app makes it quick and simple.
Here are some things you can do to make your travel experience better:
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Book Early: It is a good idea to book ahead. You may get lower prices when you book in advance.
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Use the App: The Amtrak app helps you with booking. You can also see your eTicket and check where your train is, right away, with the app.
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Arrive on Time: Make sure you get to the station at least 30 minutes before your train leaves. If you need to check baggage or need some help, you should be there 45 minutes before your train.
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Have Your Member Number: If you have an Amtrak Guest Rewards member number, keep it with you. This will let you get points for your travel.
Check train times before you leave for the day, because they might change. The best way to find the latest schedule for your trip—on the Pennsylvanian or any Amtrak line—is through the Amtrak app or website.
Amenities and Facilities at the Station
The Pittsburgh Amtrak station is made to give you a nice and easy place to wait for your train. The amtrak station has the main amenities you will need to help your travel day start well. You will see clean spots to sit and wait. There are also things for all kinds of travelers so you can get what you need for your trip to be good.
You have access to restrooms, places to sit, and staff who are ready to help you with your amtrak travel. The station tries to be sure everyone can use it, so there are helpful features for people with disabilities. Let’s look at what other amenities you will find at this amtrak station in Pittsburgh.
Passenger Waiting Areas, Accessibility, and Restrooms
The main waiting room for passengers is on the lower level of the station. The room is clean and there is good air inside, which lets you relax before you leave. You can get to this area right from the parking lot. You can also go down the stairs or use the escalator from the walkway above, which links you to the old part of the building.
In the station, you can find some key amenities meant to make your travel experience better. Everything is kept clean for everyone so you have a good time.
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There are clean restrooms you can use
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Vending machines let you get drinks and snacks
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You will see a lot of seating in the waiting room
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There is a ticket office and Quik-Trak kiosks for ticketing
The way the station is built makes it easy to go between the waiting room, baggage check, and the train platform. If you need help, station staff are there for you. They can show you where to go and make sure you get from the vestibule to your train.
Food Options and Nearby Restaurants
While you are at the station, there are not many food choices. You can only find vending machines with drinks and snacks. These are good if you need something fast before your Amtrak train leaves. There are no cafes or full restaurants inside the Amtrak passenger area.
The station is in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. This puts you very close to some of the best food the city has. If you take a short walk, you will reach the famous Strip District. This place is known for its lively spirit and lots of different food choices. You get to try many tastes there.
Here are some types of food you can get close by:
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Classic American diners and pubs
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Many types of ethnic restaurants
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Coffee spots and bakeries that feel homey
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Upscale places if you want a fancy meal
Parking and Accessibility at Pittsburgh Union Station
Planning for where you will park and knowing about the accessibility services is key for a smooth trip. If you are taking Amtrak and driving to the station, please know not to count on the parking there. There is very little onsite parking. The best idea is to look for public parking nearby before you go.
The station is built with people with disabilities in mind. It has different accessibility services to help everyone have a safe and smooth trip. There are features to help and staff who can offer you help if you need it. The station wants to make sure all people can get around. Now, let’s talk more about public parking and what accessibility features you will get.
Onsite and Nearby Parking for Amtrak Passengers
If you plan to visit the Amtrak station, you need to know that there is not any general or overnight onsite parking for most people. The station says that only a small amount of same-day parking is set aside for people who need it. There might be a fee for using this.
Since the parking options are so limited at the Amtrak station, it is best to use one of the many public parking garages or lots near downtown Pittsburgh. The station is in the middle of downtown, so you can walk to a lot of different places to park your car.
Here are some parking choices close to the station:
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Garages linked to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center
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Many public and private lots in the Strip District
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Garages around downtown that offer car parking by the day or by the hour
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You could also use a rideshare app so you do not have to park at all
These tips should help you park easier when you travel on Amtrak in Pittsburgh.
Accessibility Services for Travelers with Disabilities
The Pittsburgh Amtrak station works hard to make travel easy for people who have disabilities. The building has many things to help all travelers move around and board their trains both safely and with ease. The station staff gives free passenger assistance during regular hours.
The amtrak station is made for smooth travel. There are different accessibility services you can use. You will see these helpful features from when you walk in up to the train platform.
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An accessible ticket office and waiting room
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Accessible restrooms and a water fountain
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A wheelchair lift for getting on the trains
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Wheelchairs you can use inside the station
If you need any help, get to the station at least 45 minutes before your train leaves. Tell a staff member in uniform, and they can help you. They will help you with your luggage, show you where you need to go, and help you use the wheelchair lift so you are ready for your trip.
Photos and Traveler Reviews
A picture can say a lot, and the Pittsburgh Amtrak Station has many spots that are great for photos. The station mixes old-style buildings with new features, and this mix helps your travel experience feel special. The grand rotunda is a spot that many people love to take pictures of. When you see it in person, it is even more amazing.
Many travelers talk about how beautiful the old building is and how the station is in a very good spot. Reading what others say can help you get tips for your own trip. In the next parts, we will show you pictures of the amtrak station and talk about what other people think of their visit.
Station Gallery: Inside and Outside Views
Just think about seeing the amazing outside of the old Pennsylvania Station. The building is made with strong brown brick and terracotta, giving it a bold look. What catches everyone’s eye the most is the grand rotunda. Its huge dome and detailed designs fill you with wonder. The rotunda is something every person should see when they come here.
This station gallery gives your eyes a lot to enjoy, and there are many things that people like to take pictures of. If you enjoy the look of different buildings or just like nice places, there is a lot here for you to check out.
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The coffered dome of the rotunda, which is set off with a skylight in the middle.
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The fancy terracotta work, like the plaques that show PRR’s four main cities.
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The long drive up to the rotunda. This was made for carriages to come by.
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The glowing arches of the rotunda, which look great at night.
The new Amtrak concourse and waiting area inside are simple and kept clean, but what stands out for the Pittsburgh station is how these spaces tie into the old building. Having both the old and new in one spot makes your travel experience even more special.
Visitor Experiences and Travel Tips
Many travelers talk about their good visit to the Pittsburgh Amtrak station. They like the station’s deep history and often say how much they enjoy it. People are happy to know that they go through a building that sits on the National Register of Historic Places. Guests often mention how big and grand the rotunda looks. A lot of reviews say you should stop for a few minutes to see it.
To get more from your stop, try these travel tips:
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Arrive early. This gives you time to walk around and enjoy the classic style of the rotunda.
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Remember that the active Amtrak station is at the back of the complex. Give yourself a bit of time to get there.
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Take time to read the historic plaques in the rotunda. You will learn more about Pittsburgh history and its railroad story.
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Try to take a few photos at night when the rotunda’s arches are all lit up.
When you see how special the station is, your trip becomes more than just travel. You also step into the story of Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh Amtrak station adds a different feel to going by train. It stands out as an important spot because of its long history.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Amtrak Union Station is not just a place to catch a train. This union station is the start of your trip and lets you step into new places and find new things to do. The building is full of history and its design is special, which makes your visit stand out. You will find many types of public transit to help you get around. There are also many amenities for travelers so you feel at ease.
No matter if you plan a long train ride or just stop by on a short visit, this station gives you the things and comfort you need. While you are here, take photos and tell others about what you see and do. When you plan your next trip, you can look forward to all that pittsburgh has waiting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pittsburgh have more than one Amtrak or train station?
No, there is only one Amtrak station in Pittsburgh. It is called Union Station, and you can find it at 1100 Liberty Avenue downtown. People also know this place as Pennsylvania Station. This is the only spot for Amtrak in the city, letting you travel from Pennsylvania to many places in the country.
Is Pittsburgh Amtrak Union Station accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the Pittsburgh Amtrak Union Station can be used by people with disabilities. The station has a waiting room and restrooms that people in a wheelchair can use. There is also a wheelchair lift that helps people get on the train. If you need help, station staff will give you free passenger assistance. All of these things are there to make sure you have a safe and good travel experience at this union station in Pittsburgh.
What are the best food options near Pittsburgh’s Amtrak Union Station?
The station has vending machines if you want a quick snack. But, if you want better food, just take a short walk. The Strip District and Downtown Pittsburgh have many choices. You can find all kinds of food there. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets. Some places are more laid back, and some are fancy. So, you will find something to eat in downtown Pittsburgh, no matter what you like.