
Union Station
A historic train station reborn as a dazzling entertainment complex with an aquarium, Ferris wheel, and captivating light shows.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the Grand Hall light show

Union Station
Best Time
See the Grand Hall light show

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic train station reborn as a dazzling entertainment complex with an aquarium, Ferris wheel, and captivating light shows.
"St Louis Union Station is AMAZING! From the Gorgeous well preserved train station which is now a beautiful Hotel to an Aquarium & the awesome Fire Show!"

🎟️ Buy Multi-Attraction Tickets
Save money and time by purchasing a combo ticket online for multiple attractions .
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the attractions and exhibits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Hall Light Show
Grand Hall
Experience a dazzling light show projected onto the historic ceiling. A truly magical spectacle.

St. Louis Wheel
Union Station Midway
Soar above the city for breathtaking panoramic views. Especially stunning at sunset.

Union Station Aquarium
Union Station
Explore diverse aquatic life in a beautifully designed aquarium. Fun for all ages.

Historic Train Exhibits
Various locations within Union Station
Step back in time with impressive displays of vintage trains. A must-see for train enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Union Station
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What is worth paying to see at Union Station?
🎟️ Buy Multi-Attraction Tickets
Save money and time by purchasing a combo ticket online for multiple attractions.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the attractions and exhibits.
Grand Hall at Union Station
St. Louis Union Station
📱 Check Showtimes Online
Verify Grand Hall light show times as they can vary or be unavailable.
🅿️ Research Parking Options
Parking can be tricky; look into secured lots beforehand.
Summer visit with kids - areas to stay? Union station vs forest park vs city museum vs arch
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Multi-Attraction Tickets
Save money and time by purchasing a combo ticket online for multiple attractions.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the attractions and exhibits.
📱 Check Showtimes Online
Verify Grand Hall light show times as they can vary or be unavailable.
🅿️ Research Parking Options
Parking can be tricky; look into secured lots beforehand.
🥤 Try the Soda Fountain
Highly recommended for great shakes and food.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Union Station's transformation into a vibrant entertainment hub, praising the stunning Grand Hall, the exciting St. Louis Wheel, and the engaging Aquarium. Many highlight the family-friendly atmosphere and the variety of dining options, particularly the Soda Fountain. However, some guests have expressed disappointment with the inconsistency of the Grand Hall light show and the expense and wait times for certain attractions.
"We went to Union Station last week specifically to see the Grand Hall light show at night. We arrived and walked around the entire area trying to even find the Grand Hall itself. We asked a few employees. One did not even know what light show we were talking about. The other said it hadn't been running for the past few weeks, but I think she was referring to something where some fountains outside had a few lights on them.
I had checked the website for times and it seemed clear that the show was supposed to be running. We never could even find the actual enclosed Grand Hall shown in the pictures. I wonder if it is only available to paying hotel guests. You are not allowed to enter the lobby of the hotel if you are not a guest.
The website for Union Station is misleading for this attraction. Very disappointed. Don't waste your time."
Jodi Gregory
"St Louis Union Station is AMAZING! From the Gorgeous well preserved train station which is now a beautiful Hotel to an Aquarium & the awesome Fire Show! I mean this place has it all! Places to eat, which I highly recommend the Soda Fountain, Best shakes and great food! A massive Build a Bear store located out front. A Ferris Wheel, play area for kids, tons of old trains, including the Polar Express! If your in St Louis, you have to go here!"
Jennifer Rowlinson
"There is a lot to do here. From the aquarium to putt putt and the skywheel. It's not the cheapest so I would highly recommend to buy the multi attractions ticket online. You can eat or snack and spend a while here."
Mark Barnes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Union Station is accessible by car, public transportation, and ride-sharing services. If using public transit, check local bus routes or the MetroLink light rail system. For those driving, research parking options in advance as it can be busy.
Yes, there is parking available at Union Station. However, some visitors have reported issues with the parking situation, so it's advisable to research nearby secured lots or garages beforehand.
Yes, the MetroLink light rail system often has stops near major attractions like Union Station. Check the official Metro website for the most current routes and schedules.
While it was historically a major train station, Union Station has been redeveloped into a multi-attraction entertainment complex. It still serves as a point of interest for travelers, but its primary function is no longer solely transportation.
From St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), you can take the MetroLink directly to a station near Union Station or opt for a taxi or rideshare service for a more direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Union Station complex itself is generally free, but individual attractions like the Aquarium, Ferris Wheel, and light show require separate tickets. Purchasing multi-attraction tickets online can offer savings.
It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for popular attractions like the Aquarium and the St. Louis Wheel, to secure your spot and potentially get better pricing.
Operating hours vary by attraction and season. It's best to check the official Union Station website for the most up-to-date information on hours for each specific attraction, including the Grand Hall light show.
While the Grand Hall is a beautiful space, the light show may require a ticket or be exclusive to hotel guests. Information on its availability and cost can be inconsistent, so verify on the official website.
Refund policies typically vary by attraction. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when purchasing tickets or contact customer service for specific inquiries.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Union Station offers a wide range of activities including the Aquarium, the St. Louis Wheel, mini-golf, a mirror maze, historic train exhibits, and the Grand Hall light show. There are also shops and dining options.
Absolutely! Union Station is very family-friendly with attractions like the Aquarium, a Build-A-Bear store, a Ferris Wheel, and play areas, making it a great destination for children.
Popular attractions include the St. Louis Wheel for city views, the Aquarium for marine life, and the Grand Hall light show for a unique visual experience. Historic train exhibits are also a highlight.
You can easily spend several hours, or even a full day, exploring all the attractions, dining, and shopping. Many visitors recommend dedicating a significant portion of your day to fully experience it.
While most attractions have a fee, simply walking through the historic Grand Hall and exploring the exterior grounds can be enjoyable. Some areas might have free exhibits or displays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Union Station features a variety of dining options, from casual eateries like the Soda Fountain (highly recommended for shakes and food ) to more formal restaurants. There are also snack bars and cafes.
Yes, you can find popular chains like Starbucks and Subway within Union Station, offering convenient options for quick bites and beverages.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the attractions. However, there are many dining options available within the complex.
Most restaurants within Union Station offer a range of menu items, and you can typically find vegetarian options. It's best to check individual restaurant menus for specific vegan choices.
The Soda Fountain is frequently recommended for its shakes and food. For other preferences, explore the various restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The Grand Hall, especially during the light show, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The St. Louis Wheel provides panoramic city views, and the historic train exhibits are also very photogenic.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Aquarium, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the marine life. Always check for posted signs.
Yes, you can take photos from the St. Louis Wheel. The enclosed gondolas offer great vantage points for capturing cityscapes, but be mindful of other passengers.
While general photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and private property.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Evenings are ideal for capturing the illuminated Grand Hall and the St. Louis Wheel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Hall Experience
Insider Tip: Even if the light show isn't running or accessible, the sheer grandeur of the Grand Hall itself is worth admiring. The architecture alone transports you back to a bygone era of train travel. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to appreciate the space more peacefully.
Attractions for All Ages
Beyond these headliners, you'll find interactive experiences like mini-golf, a mirror maze, and the nostalgic Polar Express train ride during the holiday season. The presence of a large Build-A-Bear store also makes it a hit with families. Remember that purchasing multi-attraction tickets online can significantly reduce costs and streamline your experience, allowing you to enjoy more of what Union Station has to offer without breaking the bank.
Dining Delights at Union Station
For convenience, familiar chains like Starbucks and Subway are also available, perfect for grabbing a coffee or a quick sandwich. While bringing outside food is generally not allowed, the abundance of onsite dining ensures you won't go hungry. Exploring the different eateries can be part of the overall Union Station adventure.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit