Union Station is Los Angeles’s main train station, and a major metro station as well, located in the center of downtown L.A. Built in 1939, Union Station is the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States. It was designed by John and Donald Parkinson (father-son) in the style referred to as “Mission Moderne,” which is a mix of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, and Art Deco architecture. In 1972, Union Station was designated as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Union Station is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is a station for Amtrak, Metrolink, Metro, LAX Flyway, Bolt Bus, and even offers car-rental services!

Waiting at Union Station is also a pleasant experience. There is a main lobby with plushy chairs and high ceilings, and there are also some nice outdoor areas. I especially love the piano that is in the lobby. Anyone who wants to can play some music and it is so special hearing a traveler playing music for other travelers. Fast service restaurants and café’s like Starbucks, Subway, Ben & Jerry’s, and Green Bowl 2 Go are also in Union Station. But if you have a little more time, you should definitely walk across the street to Olvera St., for some delicious Mexican food.

Union Station is a must-see LA location, and it makes traveling into and around Los Angeles really convenient!