When it comes to historic buildings and destinations, some truly stand out among the rest. The stately Los Angeles Union Station is one such destination. Many who have ridden a California train have passed through, or even stopped at, this historic train station in Southern California. In 1972, Union Station was designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, and in 1980, it was put on the National Register of Historic Places. Whether you ride the train or not, this impressive structure is worthy of a visit.
Los Angeles Union Station opened its doors to passengers in 1939. Designed by John and Donald B. Parkinson, this incredible structure shows off both Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival styles in its architecture and decorative details.
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This station was a joint venture between five major railroad companies and replaced La Grande and Central Stations. It is considered to be “the last of the great train stations.”
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An aerial view of Union Station shows the grandeur of the structure, its striking architectural design, and distinguished red tile roof.
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The vast ticketing hall is outfitted with a 110-foot black walnut ticket counter, 30-foot brass-accented windows, inlaid marble tile floors, hand painted wall tiles, and dramatic open wood-tress ceiling.
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Walking through the giant waiting room with its original wood and leather seats, you can easily imagine formally-dressed travelers in the 1930s and 1940s, with cases and trunks in hand, strolling through or lounging in the hall until their trains arrived.
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High wooden ceilings with ornate designs, huge art deco chandeliers, and towering windows letting in a flood of natural light give Union Station a stately and dignified ambiance.
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The original Information booth remains in the center of Los Angeles’ main transportation hub.
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Even the outdoor courtyard has a vintage air with a colorful tiled art deco-style fountain.
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Homebound Brew Haus, formerly Harvey House restaurant, is a spacious bar and restaurant where visitors can play games while they dine, or take a seat at the original bar and enjoy a cocktail. Notice the beauty of the original tiled floor.
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Another, more intimate, dining option is Traxx, which serves up vintage-inspired meals and drinks in a corner of the main hall.
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Under the station, wide tiled hallways lead thousands of travelers to their train platforms every day.
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Have you ever visited the historic Union Station in Southern California? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Learn more about this landmark on Union Station’s official website. Check out a few more places where you can experience Southern California’s past.
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