Union Station
LA's grand 1939 rail terminal, a landmark of Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture.
The call
Worth it if you're watching the budget and you only have one day.
Short answer
Is Union Station worth it?
Union Station deserves a place on most first itineraries.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
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.
- 02
It's a 20-minute architectural detour, not a destination in itself, best paired with Olvera Street directly across the road.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You're 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're traveling as a couple
As a couple, Union Station is an easy yes.
You're traveling solo
Solo, Union Station is an easy yes.
Think twice if
You're 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.