Union Station Los Angeles
A majestic architectural marvel and a bustling transit hub, connecting Southern California and beyond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the commuter rush.
Union Station Los Angeles
Best Time
Experience the commuter rush.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic architectural marvel and a bustling transit hub, connecting Southern California and beyond.
"It's a stunning piece of history and a vital transportation hub for LA."
🎯 Arrive Early for Trains
Allow 1.5 hours for LA traffic and finding your track. Roomette passengers can use the lounge.
🤫 Secret Microphone Fun
Try the 'Hey Bill old buddy' phrase near the Metro entrance for a hidden surprise!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Waiting Room
Main Hall
Marvel at the stunning architecture, including the iconic clock and tiled floors. A true architectural gem.
Secret Easter Egg
East side, near Metro entrance
Whisper a wake-up phrase to a hidden microphone for a fun, unexpected surprise.
Patsaouras Transit Plaza
East end
Discover the unique 'floating' bus stop design and its significance in urban planning.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Union Station's Grandeur
Safety and Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Trains
Allow 1.5 hours for LA traffic and finding your track. Roomette passengers can use the lounge. +1
🤫 Secret Microphone Fun
Try the 'Hey Bill old buddy' phrase near the Metro entrance for a hidden surprise!
🚌 Dodger Stadium Express
Free bus service to Dodger Stadium from Union Station on game days.
🧳 Luggage Storage Options
Coach passengers can use baggage desk ($10/item). Sleeper passengers store free in the lounge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Trains
Allow 1.5 hours for LA traffic and finding your track. Roomette passengers can use the lounge. +1
🤫 Secret Microphone Fun
Try the 'Hey Bill old buddy' phrase near the Metro entrance for a hidden surprise!
🚌 Dodger Stadium Express
Free bus service to Dodger Stadium from Union Station on game days.
🧳 Luggage Storage Options
Coach passengers can use baggage desk ($10/item). Sleeper passengers store free in the lounge.
✨ Amtrak Lounge Access
Roomette ticket holders get access to the Metropolitan Lounge for amenities. +1
📸 Architectural Marvel
Don't miss the stunning main hall; it's a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Union Station's breathtaking architecture and its role as a vital transportation hub. Many appreciate the convenience for Amtrak and Metro travel, with specific mentions of the scenic Pacific Surfliner route. However, some note that navigating the station can be overwhelming during peak hours, and occasional concerns about safety at night are raised, though generally mitigated by security presence.
"Came into Union Station late at night for the first time on an Amtrak connection bus and was impressed right away. The station is well-marked with staff at nearly every corner ready to point you in the right direction, which makes navigating super easy. The main lobby gets busy but it’s grand, with a massive roof and plenty of space to move around. Nice bonus having a Subway and little store inside to grab food when you’re passing through. Only gripe is the bathrooms could be kept up better, but overall this place really lives up to its name as LA’s gateway."
Joshua Brewer
"Architecturally this is a magnificent train station. It’s like stepping back in time to another era and is beautiful.
I jumped an Amtrak from here to Burbank Airport and everything worked well with that.
Food options are pretty limited at the station with not much to choose from, so come prepared.
Other than that stop a while and soak in the history…"
Andrew Healy
"The architecture is primo! I love arriving here, whether it's via the metro train or parking in the rear long-term parking area. Walking through here beginning my adventure through the downtown area is a treat. There was a lot of effort done to build this place and it shows. Go here and take a look. Among the nicer buildings in the city. My pictures don't do it justice."
Isaac Salvatierra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is to take the FlyAway bus from LAX to Union Station. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rideshare. The journey typically takes about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Union Station is a major transit hub. You can reach it via Metro Rail lines (Red, Purple, Gold, and Expo lines), Metrolink commuter trains, and numerous bus routes. +1
Yes, Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner offers a scenic route from San Diego to Union Station in Los Angeles, taking approximately 3 hours.
Absolutely! Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner also runs from Union Station Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, offering a comfortable and scenic journey. Consider business class for complimentary drinks and snacks.
The Dodger Stadium Express bus service runs from Union Station directly to Dodger Stadium on game days. It's free with a game ticket.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to book Amtrak tickets in advance, especially for popular routes like Los Angeles to San Diego or Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, to secure your seat and potentially better prices. +1
Union Station is generally open 24 hours a day for passengers, though specific ticket counters and services may have limited hours. It's a functional transit hub.
Yes, you can purchase Amtrak and Metrolink tickets at the ticket counters within Union Station. However, booking online in advance is often more convenient.
No, Union Station itself does not have an entrance fee. It's a public transportation hub. You only pay for train tickets or specific services.
The address is 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Union Station has a significant security presence and is generally considered safe at night. However, like any major transit hub, it's wise to remain aware of your surroundings. +1
Coach passengers can use the baggage desk for a fee ($10/item, max 24 hours). Sleeper car passengers can store luggage for free in the Metropolitan Lounge. Luggage Hero is also an option.
Nearby attractions include Olvera Street, Little Tokyo, The Broad museum, MOCA, and Grand Central Market. You can also take the Metro to explore other parts of LA.
Yes, passengers with roomette or bedroom tickets on Amtrak trains are entitled to use the Metropolitan Lounge, which offers complimentary snacks and drinks. +1
Yes, there's a hidden Easter egg near the Metro entrance where you can speak a specific phrase into a microphone for a surprise.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Union Station has several dining options, ranging from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. Grand Central Market, a short walk away, offers a wide variety of food vendors.
Yes, Amtrak generally allows passengers to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages onboard. This is a great way to save money on longer journeys.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Union Station's grand architecture, natural light, and historic details make it a fantastic spot for photography. The main hall is particularly photogenic.
The main waiting hall with its high ceilings and tiled floors is a must-see. The exterior architecture and the Patsaouras Transit Plaza also offer unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When traveling with children, consider the Dodger Stadium Express if attending a game, as it's a convenient and free option. For longer train journeys, bringing your own snacks and drinks is a smart way to keep little ones happy and manage costs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Taking Amtrak or Metrolink trains can be more economical than flying or driving, especially for routes like San Diego or Santa Barbara. Bringing your own food and drinks onboard Amtrak trains is a significant cost-saver.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the main concourse, explore the exterior facades and the unique design of the Patsaouras Transit Plaza. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting conditions. Remember to be mindful of other travelers and security while capturing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Gem: Union Station's Design
The station's design emphasizes spaciousness and natural light, with large windows and open concourses. Beyond the main hall, explore the various waiting areas, ticket concourses, and the historic Harvey House restaurant space. The station's beauty is a significant draw for visitors, often described as feeling like a step back in time.
Recent renovations have preserved its historic charm while updating amenities for modern travelers. The integration of the Metro and Metrolink lines has revitalized Union Station as a central transportation hub for the greater Los Angeles area.
Seamless Travel: Amtrak and Metrolink at Union Station
For regional travel, Metrolink offers commuter rail services to various parts of Southern California. Navigating between these services is generally straightforward, though understanding track assignments and potential delays is key. Passengers with roomettes or bedroom accommodations on Amtrak can enjoy the amenities of the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge, a quiet retreat offering refreshments and comfortable seating.
When planning your journey, remember that LA traffic can be unpredictable. Arriving at least 1.5 hours before your departure is a common recommendation to ensure a stress-free experience, especially if you need to locate your platform or utilize services like luggage storage.
Beyond the Tracks: Exploring Around Union Station
For art and culture enthusiasts, The Broad contemporary art museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) are located across the plaza, providing world-class exhibitions. Grand Central Market, a historic food hall, is also nearby, offering a diverse culinary experience with numerous food vendors.
Public transportation from Union Station makes it easy to explore further afield. You can hop on the Metro to visit Koreatown, Downtown LA's Last Bookstore, or even head to Expo Park to explore museums like the California Science Center.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit