Portland Union Station Travel Guide 2026

Key Highlights

• Union Station in Portland is a well-known place. The building has a beautiful clock tower and a bright neon “Go By Train” sign.

• You can travel around the Pacific Northwest on main trains like the Amtrak Cascades and the Empire Builder, which goes far.

• This station is in a good spot. It is easy to get to the MAX light rail, so you can get around Rose City fast.

• There are useful things for all travelers. There are baggage services, a big waiting room, and a special Metropolitan Lounge just for some people.

• The station has a nice look from the outside and inside. Union Station is not just a place to get on a train—it’s a real part of Portland’s history.

Introduction

Welcome to your full travel guide for Portland Union Station! This old station sits in the heart of the city of roses. It is the perfect way to start your trip in the pacific northwest and more. If you are coming to union station for the first time or often, the place will give you a smooth and good experience. This guide helps you learn the main things you need. You will find information on its long history, train services, how to get around, and what to do close by.

Overview of Portland Union Station

Portland Union Station is an important part of the city of Portland. You can spot it right away because of its big Romanesque building style and the tall clock tower that has stood there for more than one hundred years. It is not just a place to see. It is busy with many passenger train trips every day.

There is a famous neon sign at the station that tells you to “Go By Train.” Many people have chosen to do this. When you walk into union station, you notice how old and new come together. You get all the modern things you need, but with the look and feel of the past all around you.

Address, Hours, and Contact Information

Finding Portland Union Station is simple. It is conveniently situated near the center of downtown, making it easily accessible. The station’s historic significance is recognized by its place on the National Register of Historic Places. The official address is 800 NW Sixth Avenue, Portland, OR 97209-3789. For general inquiries, you can contact Amtrak directly at 1-800-USA-RAIL.

The station operates seven days a week to accommodate various train schedules. While the main waiting room has extended hours, the ticket office and passenger assistance services follow a slightly different schedule. It’s always a good idea to confirm the hours for the specific service you need before your trip.

Here is a breakdown of the key operating hours for Union Station to help you plan your visit.

Service	Hours of Operation (Daily)
Station Waiting Room	6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Ticket Office	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Passenger Assistance	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Checked Baggage Service	7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Metropolitan Lounge	7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Getting to Union Station from Downtown Portland

Are you trying to figure out how to get to Union Station from downtown? The city of Portland has some good public transport choices. These can help you get there fast and with little trouble. You might feel like you are walking in the footsteps of Lewis as you move around on the city’s easy-to-use travel network.

Many people use the MAX Light Rail. This is one of the main ways to get to Union Station. The MAX lines join many spots across the city and the nearby suburbs. They stop close to Union Station, and you just need to walk a small way from the MAX stops. This makes travel simple for anyone.

You can also ride a bus and use the Portland Transit Mall. The mall is a main part of city buses and many routes go right through it. These options stop near the station. Here’s what you can do to reach it:

• MAX Light Rail: Get on the Green, Orange, or Yellow line. Ride to Union Station/NW 6th & Hoyt St or Union Station/NW 5th & Glisan St.

• Bus: A lot of TriMet buses go to the Portland Transit Mall. This spot is just a few blocks away from the station.

History of Portland Union Station

The history of Portland Union Station is closely linked to how the Pacific Northwest has grown over the years. The station opened back in 1896. It was an important place for big railroads like Union Pacific, Northern Pacific, and Southern Pacific. These railroads played a big part in helping the area grow and in connecting the Rose City with the rest of the country.

Portland Union Station is more than just a spot to get on or off a train. The place is like a living museum. For many years, it has been the main spot for people coming in or out of Portland by rail. It has seen many arrivals and departures, helping shape the city’s history.

Architectural Design and Early Years

The design of Portland Union Station stands out as one of its best features. It was built in the Romanesque Revival style. You can see the lovely brick work and terra cotta touches that help make the building look grand and timeless. The clock tower rises 150 feet above the ground. Its glowing lights have helped travelers find their way since the beginning of the station.

When you walk into the Grand Hall, you see a large open space. Natural light fills the room. There are high ceilings, marble floors, and classic wooden benches. All these things come together to make the waiting room feel special with old-time charm. The waiting room is both useful and nice to look at. It was made to give people a good start to their trip.

At first, union station was always busy. It played a key role in moving both people and goods. It quickly became a main part of the city’s travel system. The station showed how the city was growing and moving forward during that time.

Key Historical Events and Renovations

Over time, union station has gone through many changes. In the golden years of train travel, many people came through its doors. Travelers used train lines like union pacific railroad and burlington northern railroad to get from one place to another. But later, more people started to fly or drive, and the station began to see fewer people.

Still, people saw the station’s value as a piece of history and its classic look. Because of this, there were big efforts to keep and protect it. In the late 1980s, the portland development commission, which is now called prosper portland, bought union station. They started big repairs and updates to bring back the good old days while making things better for people who use it now.

These updates helped keep union station alive. It is still an important spot for travelers. The builders paid close attention to keep the special old details on the outside and inside, but they also made sure things work well and look good for today. Now, a new group of passengers can use its spaces, while the history of union station still stands strong.

Train Services and Routes Available

Portland Union Station is an important part of the Amtrak system. It helps people travel easily across the Pacific Northwest, the west coast, and even to other parts of the country. Whether you want to take a short trip up the west coast or you want to see more places in the country, you can begin your journey at this union station.

The station is the main spot for well-known trains like Amtrak Cascades and the famous Empire Builder. Both routes help you get to big cities and beautiful places. Traveling by train with the Amtrak system is a good way to see the Pacific Northwest and more. Keep reading to find out about the lines and connections you can use from Portland Union Station.

Amtrak Cascades and Other Major Lines

The Amtrak Cascades service is popular with many people. It runs more than one train every day between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Eugene, Oregon. You can stop at Seattle and other big cities along the way. The train passes by Puget Sound and green, pretty land, so you can see beautiful views. The trip is comfortable and will help you relax.

If you want to go on for a longer trip, you can try the empire builder route. This train goes from Portland to Chicago. On the way, you see amazing views of the American West, like the ones in glacier national park. This train adventure is one of the great ways to travel between the pacific northwest and the Midwest.

There are other routes too, like the lake shore limited in the eastern part of the U.S., but Portland is a main spot for travelers on the west coast. You can also get on the Coast Starlight here. This train rides between Seattle and Los Angeles and visits many places along the coast that are also beautiful.

amtrak cascades service

Connections to Regional Rail and Bus Services

Your trip does not need to end when you get off the train. Portland Union Station is linked well to many local and regional transit options. This makes it easy to get to where you want to go next. The spot of the station lets you move to other travel choices with little trouble.

One of the top ways to travel from here is with the MAX Light Rail. The stops are close and just a short walk away. In a quick time, you can get to different parts of Portland and near cities. The MAX Light Rail is good for people who ride every day and also for those who come to visit and do not want to use a car.

Besides the MAX, there are many other easy ways to get around from union station.

• TriMet Bus Services: There is a large bus line that stops near the station. It helps you reach places where the light rail does not go.

• BoltBus and other intercity buses: You can also find long bus rides near here. These buses take people to other cities in Oregon and to more places.

Navigating the Station

Portland Union Station has a design that mixes history with ease of use. When you get there, the grand waiting room is right in the middle. It helps you see where you are. The station is simple to walk through, and the signs show you where to go for ticketing, platforms, and other services.

You will see signs that take you to the boarding gates, baggage claim, and restrooms. Even though union station is a big place, you will find that it is not hard to find your way. The clock tower is easy to spot and can help if you are not sure where you are. Here’s what you should know about the way the station is set up and what it offers for those who need help getting around.

Station Layout and Signage

The station layout helps people move around without any trouble. When you come in through the main entrance, you get to the big waiting room. This is the center of the station. In the waiting room, you will see plenty of seats. You can sit down and take it easy while you look at the classic design of the place.

From the waiting room, there are clear signs that show you where to go next. These signs will lead you to ticket counters, where you can get your ticket. You will also see signs for baggage services, restrooms, and the place where you can board your train. The platforms sit behind the main building, and you can look at monitors in the hall to find your gate information.

The clock tower stands out, and people can use it to help find their way. A main thing about this station is that it is not too large. You are always close to where you want to go. Just follow the signs, and you can get around the station easily. The process is simple, and you won’t feel stressed while you do it.

Accessibility Features for Travelers

Portland Union Station works hard to help all travelers feel welcome and at ease. The station has many things in place to make sure people with disabilities can move around without trouble. When you get to union station, you will see there are easy paths from the entrance to where you catch the passenger train.

Inside the station, you will find restrooms, ticket counters, and a waiting room that are set up for wheelchair access. There is a lot of natural light. Wide and clear walkways help people get around with no fuss. When it’s time to board, a wheelchair lift is ready to help anyone who needs it get on the train. The staff inside union station can also give you a wheelchair to use in the station if you ask for one.

You can find accessible parking spots for same-day or overnight parking at the station, but they are not always open. If you need help with your bags or if you want someone to show you the way through the station, Red Cap staff members are there to help you. All these things make the journey better for everyone.

Amenities and Traveler Services

Portland Union Station gives you many things to help you travel with ease. At the union station, you will find ticket counters, plenty of places to sit and wait, places to check your bags, and spots to keep your luggage safe. The union station has what you need so you can get ready for your trip.

You can buy a ticket at the last minute, put your bags away for a short time, or just sit back and relax before your train leaves. The union station has all these things for you. Take some time to check out all the services at union station to make your travel easy and pleasant.

Ticketing Counters and Waiting Areas

Buying your tickets at Union Station is easy. The station has ticket counters with staff who can help you book, change, or ask about tickets. For faster service, there are Amtrak ticket machines. You can print your tickets or make new bookings on your own. The ticket office is open from the early morning to late at night.

The main waiting room at union station stands out. It is a big and nice area to sit in before you go. With its high ceilings and old style, it feels good to spend time here and wait for your train. Some people can use the Metropolitan Lounge, which gives a more special place to stay with free snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi.

This lounge is for Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Executive and Select Plus members. People with Business Class or private room tickets can also use it. If you are not one of them, you can buy a pass for $35 to get into this top waiting room.

Dining and Retail Options

If you are waiting for your train and need a snack or a drink, Union Station in Portland has some quick and easy options. The station gives you basic things, so you can be comfortable while you wait. It may not be the best place to shop, but you can still get what you need for the time.

You can use the vending machines inside the station to get drinks and snacks fast. Use this choice if you do not have much time and need something to eat or drink right away. Because the station is in a good spot, you are close to many places to eat and stores in the area.

If you want bigger meals or forgot to pack something important, just walk a few blocks from the station. Here are the options you get:

• Vending Machines: Inside the station for fast snacks or drinks.

• Local Cafes and Restaurants: There are many good places to eat near the station, in Old Town Chinatown and Pearl District.

• Convenience Stores: You will find stores nearby for anything you need for your trip.

Luggage Storage and Baggage Services

Traveling with heavy bags can be tough. At Portland Union Station, you will find baggage services that can help make your trip easier. You can check your bigger bags to your final stop with the checked baggage service. This is there for you every day, from morning to evening.

If you have to wait for your train or want to see the city before you leave, the station has a safe place to keep your bags. You can store your luggage for a fee and walk around Portland with no bags in your hands. This is the same as the “left luggage” service you might find in Europe. Many people find this helpful.

If you need help with your bags, Red Cap staff are there at union station. They help with your luggage, and can bring you a wheelchair if you ask for it and if one is there. This help is free, and it makes your travel easier from the curb all the way to your train.

Parking and Transportation Options

It’s easy to get to and from union station in Portland. You have a lot of choices for parking and how you want to get there. If you want to drive and leave your car, use public transit, or take a taxi or rideshare, you can pick what works best for you.

If you plan ahead, you can save time and feel less stressed on your travel day. There is short-term parking for quick stops. You can also get to union station with public transit, which connects well in the city. You will find plenty of ways to go to union station.

Keep reading to learn more about your options.

Short-Term and Long-Term Parking Choices

If you are going to union station by car, you have a few parking choices close by. The station has some parking. Because it is in the center of downtown, you can find many other garages and lots you can walk to in just a few minutes. Services like SpotHero let you book a spot ahead of time.

You can pick short-term or long-term parking. If you only need parking for the day, you can pay and use same-day parking. This is good when you just drop someone off or want to visit for the day. For trips that take more time, there is overnight parking, too. Amtrak does not promise you will find a parking space, so it is a good idea to come early or book with an app before you get there.

Garages close to the center of downtown give you good prices for the kind of parking you need. Here is what people often ask about:

• Same-Day Parking: You can pay to use this. It is good for short trips.

• Overnight Parking: You can pay to use this when you go on a longer trip.

• Reserve Ahead: Use apps like SpotHero if you want to make sure you have a spot in a garage nearby.

Taxi, Rideshare, and Public Transit Connections

If you do not want to drive, it is simple to get to union station in other ways. There be a spot for taxi pickups and drop-offs just outside the station. This spot makes it easy for anyone who have bags or need fast access.

You can also use rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft. These are all over Portland and be a good way to travel to and from union station. Just open their apps, ask for a ride, and you will get picked up fast. The place near the station works well for rides. You can get dropped off or picked up with no trouble at all.

If you want to save money, try the public transit. The MAX light rail stops very close to union station. It link you to the rest of the city. Plus, the portland transit mall is not far. It be a main place for many bus lines. These buses can take you anywhere in Portland.

Attractions and Places to Visit Near Union Station

Your visit to the Rose City can be much more than just a ride to union station. There is a lot to see and do in the area around union station. The station is right on the edge of old town chinatown and close to the pearl district. This makes it a good place to start when you want to see what the city of portland is all about.

If you have a few hours to fill before your train leaves, or if you plan to stay for a few days, the area is nice to explore by foot. There are plenty of things to do and places to look at close by. You can see some hotels and popular places for visitors in the list below.

Nearby Hotels and Accommodation

If you want a place to stay near union station, you have a lot to pick from. The spot is good, and there are many hotels and places to stay just a short walk or ride away. Some places are not too costly, while others are special hotels that fit your style and budget.

A lot of people like to stay close to where they get in or leave. The parts of the City of Portland near the station, like the Pearl District and Old Town, have some of the most well-liked hotels. You get nice features and simple ways to see all there is in town.

It is simple to plan your stay because there are so many places to choose from. Here are some types of places to stay by union station:

• Major Hotel Chains: You can find big names, like the Hampton Inn & Suites, for a good and trusted stay.

• Boutique Hotels: These are special and cool places in the Pearl District you may want to try.

• Budget-Friendly Options: If you need to save money, there are cheaper motels and inns not far from union station.

Popular Tourist Spots Within Walking Distance

Got some free time? Step outside Union Station and take in the lively feel of the Rose City. There are many well-liked places near here, so you can see what makes Portland special. You do not have to go far to find things that are fun or new.

Union Station sits right by the edge of Old Town Chinatown. This place is one of the city’s first and oldest parts. At Old Town Chinatown, you can walk through the Lan Su Chinese Garden, visit local shops, and see how people from different places live together. If you are here on the weekend, the Portland Saturday Market is also close by, set up under the Burnside Bridge.

Want to go out and see more? Here are a few great spots you can walk to:

• Lan Su Chinese Garden: This true and peaceful garden is a quiet spot in the middle of the city.

• Powell’s City of Books: Get lost in the world’s biggest independent bookstore, found just a few blocks away in the Pearl District.

• Waterfront Park: Walk or relax by the Willamette River in this nice, open park.

Conclusion

To sum up, Portland Union Station is more than a place where people catch trains. It is a starting point for seeing the city’s history and culture. Union Station stands out for its great looks and the many things it offers. Traveling through union station can be fun for anyone. If you are taking a train to another city or just looking around, there are many things close by to enjoy during your visit. If you need help or have questions about your trip, you can always reach out to local services or transit options. I hope your travels go well!

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive before my train departs?

Amtrak says you should get to the station at least 45 minutes before your train leaves if you want to check bags or need help with tickets. If you already have your ticket and you are not checking any bags, getting there 30 minutes before the train goes is enough. Make sure you look at train timetables for your trip. This helps you stay on time, whether you are taking the empire builder or amtrak cascades.

Can I store my luggage at Portland Union Station?

Yes, you can do that. Portland Union Station has a luggage storage service you can use for a fee. You can leave your bags there and go see the City of Portland without having to carry your things around. This is great for people with long layovers. You can see the Rose City before getting back on the Amtrak Cascades or any other train.

Is Portland Union Station accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Yes, Portland Union Station is easy for everyone to use. The station has ramps for getting on and off trains. There are also restrooms, ticket counters, and places to wait that are good for people who use wheelchairs. A wheelchair lift helps people get on the train. The workers at union station can help with wheelchairs inside the station. They want to make sure all people have a comfortable time when they travel.