Prince Depot Amtrak
A charming Art Deco Amtrak station nestled in the New River Gorge, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning fall foliage views
Prince Depot Amtrak
Best Time
Stunning fall foliage views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Art Deco Amtrak station nestled in the New River Gorge, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
"This little vintage train station nestled in the New River Gorge National park is just wow!"
📸 Photo Ops Galore
This vintage station is a photographer's dream! Capture its unique Art Deco style.
📶 Minimal Signal Alert
Expect very little cell service. Download maps and info before you arrive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Deco Architecture
Admire the striking Art Deco design of this historic train station, a beautiful relic in a scenic setting.
New River Gorge Proximity
Located within the stunning New River Gorge National Park, offering easy access to natural beauty.
Vintage Photo Opportunities
A perfect spot for unique, retro-style photographs, capturing a blast from the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vintage Charm
Plan for Connectivity & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting New River Gorge over spring break. Would really appreciate some advice.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
This vintage station is a photographer's dream! Capture its unique Art Deco style.
📶 Minimal Signal Alert
Expect very little cell service. Download maps and info before you arrive.
A question for those living in/around New River NPP, as well as for West Virginians in general
Help with selecting a location
🚶♀️ Walk to Free Camping
Gorgeous free camping is accessible nearby, perfect for an extended stay.
🕰️ Blast from the Past
Experience a charming, retro atmosphere at this historic Amtrak stop.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Ops Galore
This vintage station is a photographer's dream! Capture its unique Art Deco style.
📶 Minimal Signal Alert
Expect very little cell service. Download maps and info before you arrive.
🚶♀️ Walk to Free Camping
Gorgeous free camping is accessible nearby, perfect for an extended stay.
🕰️ Blast from the Past
Experience a charming, retro atmosphere at this historic Amtrak stop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are charmed by Prince Depot's historic Art Deco architecture and its picturesque setting within the New River Gorge National Park. Many appreciate it as a unique photo opportunity and a nostalgic glimpse into the past. However, the lack of amenities and minimal cell service are frequently noted drawbacks, requiring visitors to plan ahead.
"Just wow! Love this little vintage train station nestled in the New River Gorge National park. You can actually walk to gorgeous nearby free camping. But good to know, there’s minimal signal down in Prince so plan ahead. Also the bathroom is nice enough but otherwise no amenities beyond a cool old waiting room. We caught the Amtrak right on time."
Rhonda Effron Brown
"I hope Amtrak restores this location and really capitalizes off of it being in a national park now. The amount of business that can bring them I hope they realize and invest in all the locations in the New River Gorge."
Jon Henderson
"Can’t speak to the experience, but the Art Deco style station was pretty cool. Look up the history of the Prince Depot. Bet it’s beautiful here in the fall."
Lisa B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Prince Depot is located within the New River Gorge National Park. Access is typically by car. The nearest major roads will lead you to the park, and then follow signs for Prince. Be aware that cell service is minimal in the area, so plan your route in advance.
While Prince Depot is an Amtrak station, it's a remote stop. Public transport options directly to the depot itself are very limited. It's best accessed by car as part of a visit to the New River Gorge National Park.
The area around Prince Depot is best explored by car, allowing you to visit the New River Gorge National Park and its various overlooks and trails. Free camping is also available nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Amtrak tickets in advance, especially for a smaller station like Prince Depot. You can purchase tickets through the Amtrak website or app.
Prince Depot functions primarily as an Amtrak stop. While the waiting room is accessible, specific operating hours for any potential station staff or services are not widely advertised. It's best to check Amtrak's schedule for train arrival and departure times.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Prince Depot building itself, as it's a historic station. However, if you are visiting the surrounding New River Gorge National Park, be aware that some areas may have associated fees or require passes.
Yes, you can visit the Prince Depot to admire its architecture and historic atmosphere even if you are not traveling by train. It's a popular spot for photos and a quick stop while exploring the national park.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire exterior of the Art Deco station is a fantastic photo opportunity. Capture its unique architectural details against the natural backdrop of the New River Gorge. The interior waiting room also offers a vintage feel.
Absolutely! The Prince Depot's historic Art Deco design makes it an ideal location for vintage-style photography. It offers a unique aesthetic that stands out from modern stations.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for photographing Prince Depot, offering softer light and potentially fewer crowds. Fall is particularly stunning due to the foliage.
🎫 🌲 Nature & Outdoors
Prince Depot is situated within the New River Gorge National Park, offering access to hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for photography. Nearby free camping is also a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.
While Prince Depot is in the vicinity of the New River Gorge National Park, it's not directly adjacent to the New River Gorge Bridge. You'll need to drive to reach the bridge and its visitor center.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that amenities are scarce, so pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment for children. The limited cell service also means you'll need to have your plans for the rest of the day mapped out beforehand. Consider it a charming historical interlude before or after exploring the park's natural attractions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for golden hour light (early morning or late afternoon) to enhance the mood and details of the building. The surrounding park also offers numerous scenic vistas that can complement your depot photos. Just be mindful of the limited cell service when coordinating with models or planning your shots.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Since amenities are minimal, it's best treated as a scenic point of interest rather than a destination for services. Ensure your vehicle is fueled and you have any necessary supplies before arriving, given the limited connectivity and services in the immediate vicinity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Prince Depot
While the depot itself is a visual treat, it's important to manage expectations regarding amenities. Reviews consistently mention that there are minimal services beyond a clean bathroom and a historic waiting room. This means visitors should come prepared with their own food, water, and entertainment, especially if planning a longer stay or waiting for a train. The lack of amenities is often seen as part of its rustic appeal, preserving its authentic character.
Its location within the national park also makes it a gateway for exploring the natural wonders of the New River Gorge. Many visitors combine a stop at the depot with hiking, scenic drives, or enjoying the breathtaking views. The depot's historical significance, coupled with its picturesque setting, makes it a unique and memorable destination for those seeking a blend of history and nature.
Connectivity and Planning Ahead
This lack of signal extends to communication, so inform others of your itinerary beforehand. It also impacts the ability to look up information on the go. Therefore, it's wise to research train schedules, park information, and any local points of interest before you lose service. Having a physical map or printed directions can be invaluable.
Despite the connectivity challenges, many find this aspect adds to the charm and allows for a more immersive experience in nature. It encourages visitors to disconnect from the digital world and focus on the historical ambiance of the depot and the natural beauty of the surrounding park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit