Union Station
LA's grand 1939 rail terminal, a landmark of Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
One of America's last great railway stations — soaring beamed ceilings, tiled floors, leather chairs, and shaded courtyards, free to walk through and quietly gorgeous.
Our read - 02
It's a 20-minute architectural detour, not a destination in itself, best paired with Olvera Street directly across the road.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
Union Station earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep Union Station.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Union Station is an easy yes.
You are traveling solo
Solo, Union Station is an easy yes.
Think twice if
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Union Station needs the right timing and tolerance.
You want context, not just the photograph
Union Station offers some depth & learning, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free
- Timing
- Daytime for the light through the windows; it's a transit hub so always open.
- Allow
- 20-40 minutes
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible as a working station.
- Getting there
- It is the central Metro and rail hub — arrive by train or any Metro line.