Chicago Union Station stands as one of America’s great railway terminals, a testament to the golden age of rail travel that continues to serve as a vital transportation hub for the Midwest. This historic landmark, which opened its doors in 1925, combines Beaux-Arts architecture with modern amenities, serving over 120,000 passengers daily through both Amtrak and Metra operations.
Historical Background
The current Chicago Union Station, designed by Daniel Burnham and completed by Graham, Anderson, Probst and White, replaced an earlier station that had operated since the 1880s. The magnificent building spans nearly 9.5 acres and took over eight years to construct at a cost of $75 million in 1925 dollars – equivalent to over $1 billion today. The station’s most iconic feature, the Great Hall with its soaring barrel-vaulted skylight, spans 219 feet long and reaches a height of 115 feet.
Throughout its history, Union Station has adapted to changing transportation needs while maintaining its architectural grandeur. A major $2 billion renovation project launched in 2010 has modernized many aspects of the station while carefully preserving its historic character. These improvements have enhanced both the passenger experience and the station’s retail and dining offerings.
Location and Access
Chicago Union Station occupies two city blocks in the West Loop, bounded by Clinton Street on the east, Canal Street on the west, Adams Street on the north, and Jackson Boulevard on the south. The station’s strategic location places it within walking distance of Chicago’s central business district and offers convenient connections to public transportation, including CTA buses and the “L” train system.
The station features multiple entrances, with the main entrance located at 225 South Canal Street. Additional entrances can be found on Clinton Street and Jackson Boulevard. For those arriving by car, there’s a convenient pickup and drop-off area on Canal Street, as well as several nearby parking facilities.
The Great Hall
The crown jewel of Chicago Union Station is undoubtedly its Great Hall, often called the “Head House.” This magnificent space serves as both a waiting area and an architectural masterpiece that has appeared in numerous films and television shows. The hall’s most striking feature is its massive skylight, which spans the entire length of the room and bathes the space in natural light.
Recent restoration work has returned the skylight to its original splendor, replacing the clouded plastic panels with clear glass and adding modern climate control features. The Great Hall’s marble staircases, made famous in the movie “The Untouchables,” continue to provide a dramatic focal point and serve as a popular spot for photos.
The space hosts various events throughout the year, from private gatherings to public celebrations, while maintaining its primary function as a waiting area for passengers. Traditional wooden benches line the hall, offering comfortable seating beneath the soaring ceiling.
Premium Lounges
Metropolitan Lounge
The Metropolitan Lounge represents the pinnacle of passenger amenities at Chicago Union Station. Reserved for Amtrak’s first-class passengers and sleeping car customers, this recently renovated space offers a refined retreat from the bustling station concourse.
Located on the upper level, the 13,500-square-foot lounge features distinct zones for different activities. The quiet area provides comfortable seating for reading or working, while the general seating area encourages a more social atmosphere. Business travelers appreciate the dedicated conference room and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the space.
The lounge offers complimentary refreshments, including coffee, tea, soft drinks, and light snacks throughout the day. During peak travel times, a more substantial selection of snacks and beverages becomes available. Private restrooms, shower facilities, and baggage storage add to the premium experience.
Legacy Club
The Legacy Club offers a more accessible premium experience for all travelers willing to purchase a day pass. This historic space, formerly the Women’s Lounge, maintains much of its original architectural detail while providing modern amenities.
Located adjacent to the Great Hall, the Legacy Club features comfortable seating, complimentary beverages, snacks, and Wi-Fi. The space is particularly popular with business travelers and those experiencing longer layovers, as it provides a more peaceful alternative to the general waiting areas.
Dining Options
Food Court
The station’s food court, located on the lower level, offers a diverse range of quick-service options to satisfy various tastes and dietary requirements. National chains operate alongside local Chicago favorites, providing everything from breakfast items to late-night snacks. The space underwent significant renovation as part of the station’s modernization project, resulting in improved seating areas and updated décor.
Restaurants
Several sit-down restaurants within Union Station cater to those seeking a more refined dining experience. The historic Fred Harvey Restaurant space, though no longer operating under its original name, has been beautifully restored and now houses a modern American restaurant that pays homage to the station’s golden age.
Other dining establishments range from casual cafes to upscale bars, many incorporating elements of the station’s historic architecture into their design. These venues serve both travelers and local office workers, creating a vibrant dining scene throughout the day.
Market Stands and Grab-and-Go Options
Throughout the station, various market stands and kiosks offer fresh sandwiches, salads, and local specialties. These outlets cater particularly well to commuters and travelers seeking quick, quality food options. Several stands specialize in Chicago-specific treats, allowing visitors to sample local flavors even during brief layovers.
Retail and Services
Shopping
Union Station’s retail offerings have evolved significantly in recent years, moving beyond basic travel necessities to include a diverse mix of shops. Bookstores, convenience outlets, and gift shops share space with local boutiques and national retailers. The station’s retail areas are particularly busy during morning and evening rush hours, serving both travelers and local commuters.
Personal Services
The station offers a range of personal services designed to accommodate travelers’ needs. These include:
A full-service barber shop, maintaining the tradition of grooming services that have been available at the station for decades Shoe shine stands, offering both quick services and more detailed leather care Massage kiosks providing quick stress relief for travelers Currency exchange services ATMs located throughout the facility
Business Services
For business travelers, Union Station provides various services to help maintain productivity while traveling. A business center offers printing, copying, and shipping services, while multiple areas throughout the station provide workspace with power outlets and Wi-Fi access.
Transportation Connections
Amtrak Services
As one of Amtrak’s busiest stations, Chicago Union Station serves as a hub for numerous routes connecting the Midwest to both coasts. Long-distance trains include the California Zephyr, Empire Builder, and Southwest Chief, while multiple daily frequencies serve regional destinations throughout Illinois and neighboring states.
Metra Commuter Rail
Metra operates several lines from Union Station, serving Chicago’s suburbs with regular commuter service. The station’s role as a commuter hub significantly influences its peak usage patterns and has led to specific design considerations in recent renovations.
Local Transit Connections
The station offers convenient connections to Chicago’s extensive public transportation network. Multiple CTA bus routes serve the station directly, while nearby CTA “L” stations provide rapid transit access to the entire city. Clear signage and digital displays help travelers navigate between different transportation options.
Accessibility Features
Chicago Union Station maintains comprehensive accessibility features throughout the facility. All major areas are wheelchair accessible, with elevators serving all levels. The station provides:
Wheelchair assistance services for those who need them Accessible restrooms on all levels Priority seating areas in waiting rooms Designated assistance areas for boarding and departing trains Visual and audio announcement systems throughout the facility
Special Programs and Events
Art and Culture
The station regularly hosts art exhibitions and cultural events in the Great Hall and other public spaces. These programs, often coordinated with local cultural institutions, help maintain the station’s role as a civic space as well as a transportation facility.
Historical Tours
Organized tours of the station highlight its architectural features and historical significance. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, provide insights into both the building’s past and its ongoing evolution. Special themed tours during holidays and significant anniversaries offer unique perspectives on the station’s role in Chicago’s development.
Private Events
The station’s various spaces, particularly the Great Hall, are available for private events ranging from corporate gatherings to weddings. The unique architectural setting and central location make it a popular venue choice, while careful scheduling ensures that event activities don’t interfere with regular station operations.
Future Developments
Chicago Union Station continues to evolve with ongoing improvement projects. Current and planned developments focus on:
Expanding retail and dining options to serve growing passenger numbers Improving circulation patterns throughout the facility Enhancing integration with surrounding neighborhoods Upgrading mechanical systems while preserving historic features Developing new public spaces within and around the station
Practical Information
Operating Hours
While the station never completely closes, different areas maintain varying hours of operation. The Great Hall and main concourse are accessible 24/7, but individual businesses and services maintain their own operating hours. Premium lounges typically operate during peak travel periods, while some retail outlets adjust their hours to match commuter patterns.
Safety and Security
The station maintains a visible security presence throughout its public areas. Modern surveillance systems complement traditional security measures, while coordinated efforts with local law enforcement ensure passenger safety. Regular emergency drills help staff prepare for various scenarios while minimizing disruption to daily operations.
Lost and Found
A centralized lost and found service operates during business hours, handling items lost throughout the facility. The service coordinates with both Amtrak and Metra to help passengers recover lost items, maintaining detailed records and secure storage for found items.
Check Out Chicago Union Station for Yourself!
Chicago Union Station remains a vital transportation hub while serving as a landmark of architectural and historical significance. Its successful blend of preserved historic features with modern amenities demonstrates how historic structures can adapt to contemporary needs while maintaining their character. As the station continues to evolve, its role as both a transportation facility and a Chicago landmark seems secure for future generations.
The ongoing investment in maintaining and improving the station reflects its importance to Chicago’s transportation network and cultural heritage. Whether passing through for a quick connection or spending time exploring its magnificent spaces, Chicago Union Station offers visitors a glimpse of both railroad history and contemporary urban life. Its various lounges, dining options, and amenities ensure that today’s travelers can enjoy comfort and convenience while experiencing one of America’s great railway terminals.