What are your favorite train stations in Amtrak's system? I've broken mine down by category (of course I can't speak for any of them east of Chicago, since I've never been further than that).
Most Overwhelming: CHI Union Station (also station most likely to get lost in).
Most picturesque: Three way tie: Los Angeles, San Diego, San Luis Obispo.
Most contemporary in appearance: Tie: Oakland-Jack London, Irvine, Bakersfield
In most need of a facelift: San Bernardino (if they haven't already)
Most Conveniently located: Reno, NV-hey, you jump of the Zephyr and your yards from the slots.
Least conveniently located/ also known as the "Where the Hell Are We?!" award: Maricopa, AZ.
Most "Historic" in feel: Tie: Denver Union and Sacramento. I think it would be a shame if they closed down the Depot in SAC-as I've heard discussion about.
The "Don't go outside the station building" award: Stockton, CA-San Joaquin St Station
Any other categories anybody would like to add?
------------------ Patrick
Posted by notelvis (Member # 3071) on :
I really like the job the North Carolina DOT is doing in refurbishing older train stations. Rocky Mount, NC (with 8 daily Amtrak trains) is a jewel. So is High Point, NC (with 6 daily passenger trains).
I'm eagerly awaiting the reopening of stations in Greensboro, NC and Hamlet, NC because that's where my first Amtrak trip about 30 years ago originated.
OK......so a new category......how about the hardest to find but still decent Amtrak Station?
I vote for Savannah, GA.
It's kind of in an industrial area off the main road miles from downtown and miles from Interstate-95.
I challenge anyone to find a sign directing you to it from US 80 eastbound. It's going to be a tough find.....particularly in the dark when most trains in the current timetable are due.
------------------ David Pressley
[This message has been edited by notelvis (edited 12-23-2004).]
Posted by Grandma Judy (Member # 3278) on :
How about cutest unmanned rural station? I vote for Fort Edward, NY's classic red gable-roof design, painted sunny yellow with pots of petunias along the unused platform (you board the train from the street crossing nearby). Watch for it on the west side of the northbound Adirondack.
In most need of a facelift: Milwaukee (also a candidate for "don't leave the station")
[This message has been edited by Grandma Judy (edited 12-23-2004).]
Posted by Gilbert B Norman (Member # 1541) on :
I realize Mr. AmtrakManiac wisely recused from noting stations where his travels have yet to take him.
My vote is Washington Union Station for the most attractive, convenient, and functional station anywhere on the system.
Note at my profile where I reside.
Posted by sojourner (Member # 3134) on :
Well, I have the opposite problem--never been to any stations west of the Mississippi--never even been to the Chicago station. Though that will change when I do my SW trip . . . and I hope other longer trips in future. I must say, the Denver Station looked very nice, and tempting, when I saw it in the recent John Sayles film.
So, anyway, my vote for the most beautiful current Amtrak station of those I've been to, or at least through, is Union Station in Washington, DC. And my vote for the prettiest train station I've been in in all of North America is the Viarail station in Quebec City.
But the train station I was most excited to see is 30th St Station in Philadelphia--because of the association with the film Witness.
What is so terrible about Stockton? Is it an unsafe neighborhood? It's funny, I know so little about California, only there twice, and never to Stockton, which I think of as something from Wild West days, wasn't one of the big TV westerns set there?
Posted by rresor (Member # 128) on :
I live in Philadelphia, so I'll agree that Washington Union Station is probably "the best" in the Amtrak system. It's got shops, dining, a parking garage, Metrorail and Metrobus service, car rentals...and the Tourmobile stops out front.
#2, for me, would be good old 30th Street, not as opulent as WAS but still offering car rentals, parking, shopping, dining, and good transit and commuter rail connections -- plus a train to the airport (which of course Washington also has -- to two different airports, in fact).
Of the western stations, most simply do not offer the level of amenities you find in the NEC -- even Chicago, where there are no car rental offices in the station (or didn't use to be) and transit connections are not especially convenient.
Los Angeles Union Terminal is sadly underutilized, due I guess to a dispute with Catellus Real Property, but it does have excellent transit and commuter rail connections, plus Olvera Street out front. And it's a gorgeous building.
Denver, if it is successfully redeveloped, could become a hub like Washington. It now has light rail connections, and may have commuter rail, and it's right downtown.
But with Amtrak service as thin as it is in most parts of the country, there are precious few stations that offer the amenities we've come to expect from airports. It makes travel, especially business travel, kinda tough outside the NEC.
Posted by PullmanCo (Member # 1138) on :
Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal.
No more ever need be said!
------------------ The City of Saint Louis (UP, 1967) is still my standard for passenger operations
Posted by M190 (Member # 3009) on :
Portand, OR. Picturesque and functional.
Corcoran CA has a nice little station, new but in the old style, very impressive for such a tiny town.
Dumpiest terminal, King St. in Seattle but that's being remedied.
LAUPT is very simply a dear old friend full of magic.
Glendale is nice, keep expecting to see Barbara Stanwyk or Fred MacMurray.
My wtf award goes to Modesto, CA. Why is the building so far back from the tracks?
Rochester, NY is an interesting place. Unremarkable box of a 70's building, but the old passenger tunnels and old platforms can be seen is you look carefully.
Posted by City of Miami (Member # 2922) on :
I was charmed by the station in Lamy NM while waiting on the Southwest Chief. It is staffed, but very small and quaint and picturesque and basically miles from anywhere which somehow seemed appropriate. I also was impressed by Portland station and, as mentioned above, by the level of activity when the Starlight pulls in.
Posted by graynt (Member # 17) on :
I've been to quite a few. Washington DC,with their shops,food courtand elegance has to be #1. I love Los Angeles Union station..such nostalgia and their outdoor patio. In California,Oxnard and Bakersfield are quite nice as is Oakland. The two Portlands, Oregon and Maine are quite impressive. Last time I was in Portland,Me, free newspapers,breakfast items,juice and coffee were available to any passenger. Fullerton and Oceanside are in great settings in Southern California, and I'm always impressed with Chicago's Union station..just for the sheer amount of activity that occurs..talk about a transportation hub..wow!
Posted by Mr. Toy (Member # 311) on :
My station experiences have been pretty limited. But here's my relatively uninformed list:
Worst rest rooms: Salinas, CA (I'm sure there are many others)
Best rest rooms: Salem, OR
Best exterior restoration of a previously dumpy station: Davis CA
Best interior restoration of a previously dumpy station: Salem, OR
Most interesting architecture for a new station: Oakland Jack London Square
Most desperately in need of A/C: Denver - as soon as the summer sun comes through those massive windows the place becomes an oven.
Best neon sign: Denver
Most minimalist urban station design: Caltrain terminal in San Francisco (Just doors, glass and concrete)
Most closely resembling an urban Greyhound station: Emeryville
Prettiest pedestrian overpass: Oakland Jack London Square.
[This message has been edited by Mr. Toy (edited 12-23-2004).]
Posted by CoastStarlight99 (Member # 2734) on :
For "historic feel" there are countless RR stations in the country that have been around for nearly a century.
Posted by dilly (Member # 1427) on :
Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal --- Like a 1930s movie set; it's the most relaxing big city Amtrak station I've found. The waiting room crowds are so laid back they're horizontal. I'd gladly live inside the empty Harvey House restaurant. http://snow.prohosting.com/usarail/losangeles.htm
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Chicago Union Station --- The only part worth spending time in is the 1920s waiting room, with its wood benches, Tennessee marble, and big skylight. The Metropolitan Lounge has as much atmosphere as a proctologist's waiting room. http://snow.prohosting.com/usarail/chicago.htm
30th Street Station (Philadelphia, PA) --- Monumental columns, soaring concourse, hurrying crowds. . . it's a classic. www.chesco.com/~apu/prr/prr_30.html
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Utica Union Station (Utica, NY) --- Built by the New York Central. Saved from the wrecking ball. One of the few surviving "big city" stations along the former NYCRR "Water Level Route" between New York City and Chicago. http://www.trainweb.org/rshs/GRS%20-%20Utica.htm
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Santa Ana Regional Transit Center --- I thought it was an old Santa Fe Railway / Harvey House relic until I discovered it was built only about a decade ago. Impressive Spanish California architecture. The nicest "new" Amtrak stop I've seen. http://snow.prohosting.com/usarail/santaana.htm
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Honorable Mention:
Washington Union Station ---
The exterior and the entry rotunda are amazing. Unfortunately, most of the interior has been "upgraded" into a massive retail mall / food court that belongs at an airport. But at least it's still standing. http://snow.prohosting.com/usarail/washingtondc.htm
Posted by amtraxmaniac (Member # 2251) on :
... Would most benefit from some sort of catering service (other than vending machines). BAKERSFIELD and OAKLAND.
Sacramento has a TON of potential if they would match efforts to make the outside as nice as the inside. They have a quaint little sandwich stand inside that would work perfectly in stations like Bakersfield.
I am planning a trip to Washington D.C this summer, so I'll be able to judge for myself.
Like I said before, San Diego is a gem, and it's right in the heart of downtown.
Emeryville and Glendale are hard to find.
------------------ Patrick
Posted by Big Merl (Member # 3251) on :
Can I vote for Grand Central Terminal as best station even though Amtrak doesn't go there?
For the award for "most exciting" I vote my local station since it begins my trips.
For "best food" I vote Chicago
For "most interesting from the train" I vote Cleveland, because it has the great views of the stadium. Close runner up is Croton-Harmon for the Hudson valley sights and Sing-Sing prison (which if you could see all that from the station would make it the winner)
For "best historic trains trackside" Omaha gets the temporary nod for having a Big Boy and a Centenial
Posted by JFB (Member # 2520) on :
quote:Originally posted by Big Merl: Can I vote for Grand Central Terminal as best station even though Amtrak doesn't go there?
You not only can. You must.
With the disclaimer, of course, that it is a former regular station, and present sometime station. (When the bridge at "Spite the Devil" goes out, Empire trains return to their proper terminal.)
Posted by TwinStarRocket (Member # 2142) on :
Best stations for an old fashioned outdoor vacation destination (where you can still imagine what it used to be like in the glory days of railroads): Flagstaff and Whitefish.
And not a commuter to be found within 500 miles.
Posted by jp1822 (Member # 2596) on :
Grand Central.....is superb! I work out of NYC and often bring clients to dinner or lunch there. It has a really great feel to it and has been magnificiently restored. It's also, less mall-esque than Washington DC Union Station, although this stataion has also been magnificiently restored and functionality expanded so it can survive.
Someone mentioned that Chicago Union Station is the easiest to get lost in - must have never been to New York Penn Station. Try coming off the various subway lines and making your way to the Amtrak section. I just got lost the other day, and I thought I knew the ropes after doing this daily commute into New York Penn for many years.
Along the NEC I am most impressed with (in ranking order):
1. Washington DC Union Station 2. 30th St. Station Philadelphia 3. Boston South Station
The station at White River Junction, VT, Waterbury/Stowe, VT, Glennwood Springs, CO are real small town gems.
Many stations in CA have undergone grand refurbishments. Only wish that some of the stations in the East can be returned to their grandeur (i.e. Buffalo, Detroit)
Posted by CoastStarlight99 (Member # 2734) on :
First, Happy Holidays to Everyone!
Here is what I think, a few days ago I was going through the USA rail website and I looked at alot of Amtrak Stations.
Most Historic: Los Angeles Union Station, some may disagree but this is a great place.
Most away from civilization: Essex, MT I would love to visit the Izzak Walton someday.
My favorite station is Chemult, OR (CMO), this is really just my opinion. I like it just because its a great place to watch trains all day long all by yourself. It may be small and ugly, but it has a small feel to it that other train watching places dont have. I also enjoy Fullerton, CA (FUL) because its close to LA and a nice place to watch trains with alot of other rail "buffs" that go down there.
Posted by George Harris (Member # 2077) on :
How about Alexandria, Virginia?
Nice train watching location, easy access, well maintained but small station, waiting rooms. Amtrak, VRE, and WMATA just across the way. Also, lots of CSX freight two tracks over.
Most minimal non-station? No one has mentioned Williams Junctionm, Arizona. Platform next to the tracks and NOTHING else.
Posted by RRRICH (Member # 1418) on :
Prettiest "vacation-looking" western station is Whitefish, MT
Best for overall services/conveniences is a tie between Chicago Union Station and Washington DC Union Station
most historic -- I agree that would be Los Angeles
BUT Chicago Union Station also wins my award for the worst station with connections to the city subway system
dumpiest station - tie between Trenton NJ and North Philadelphia PA
Posted by Railroad Bob (Member # 3508) on :
Here's a category I will submit: Where were the greatest stations that were torn down or otherwise taken out of service? My vote is for the TWO (2) grand old stone stations of Galesburg, IL. There was the old CB and Q depot, hammered down by wrecking ball at 5 AM on a Sunday morning, and the ATSF station a few blocks away, also a grand stone edifice. Shame on Galesburg for this, even though I live here and it is otherwise a nice town. The citizens regret it now, of course. Any other bygone depots anyone remembers?
Posted by dilly (Member # 1427) on :
My all-time favorite "ex-Amtrak" station is still standing: Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. Amtrak was a presence there until the early 90s.
My second favorite (although totally decommissioned as a rail station) has also escaped the wrecking ball: Buffalo Central Terminal in Buffalo, NY.
It was built by the New York Central Railroad during the 1920s. Amtrak used it for a while during the 1970s, until the cost of running such a huge building proved too prohibitive.
BCT has been closed since then. But the Lake Shore Limited, Maple Leaf, and the Empire Service trains to and from Niagara Falls still pass right by it. During the summer, a local preservation group runs monthly tours of the place. It's well worth checking out.
Here are two sites that will give you an idea of what the station was/is like:
I think the worst Amtrak station, I've ever been in, is the one in Sacramento, Ca. However, they may be in the process or may already have renovated the station..does anyone know? I haven't been in many of the "classic" - major city stations, such as LA, Chicago, etc. A friend of mine recently took the Southwest Chief and e-mailed me pictures of the renovated station in Kansas City..I was very impressed by the pictures. One of my favorite Amtrak stations is the one in Glenwood Springs, Colorado; not only a quaint, old station, but Glenwood is a fun town to visit.
When I retire, I am planning on purchasing a 1-month rail pass, if they still offer them. I hope to photograph many of the more picturesque Amtrak stations. Can anyone recommend a book or web site depicting the more photogenic Amtrak stations, as to serve as a guide for a would-be photographic journey?
Posted by dilly (Member # 1427) on :
This is by far the best Amtrak station site out there:
The Japanese guy who runs it still hasn't covered most of the stations in the Northeast. In fact, he hasn't significantly updated the site in many months. In the current post-9/11 climate, it's possible he no longer feels quite so comfortable wandering around unfamiliar towns, snapping multiple shots of local train stations.
Posted by CoastStarlight99 (Member # 2734) on :
He has every single train station in the country, except for that big chunk in the northeast.
I dont understand why he doesnt get a domain. He has such a great thing going.
Posted by espeefoamer (Member # 2815) on :
Best station Amtrak has ever used:Grand Central Terminal Best station Amtrak uses now: Washington Union Station Station that most looks like a second rate mall:Penn Station.Best station west of the Mississippi: Los Angeles Union Station.Most disapointing station in a large city: St Louis station.
------------------ Trust Jesus,Ride Amtrak.
Posted by Brian Keefer (Member # 2916) on :
Kansas City and Fullerton get my votes.
Posted by M190 (Member # 3009) on :
As an update I'd have to agree with dilly on Buffalo. I've only seen it from the windows of the LSL, but wow! I wouldn't be a bit surprised to see Batman living in there. Dilly, do you need a roomate in that LAUPT Harvey House? Tell you what, you can have the restaurant and I'll take the bar.
Also new vote for most disappointing would have to be Detroit. Little more than an Amshack in a city that size? Not the best area either.
Posted by M190 (Member # 3009) on :
One more thing. The video for Brian Setzer's Jump Jive and Wail was filmed in the restaurant at LAUPT. I saw it on VH1 a couple years ago and 'bout fell outa my chair.
Posted by 20th Century (Member # 2196) on :
Dilly, I'm so glad that you mentioned Utica Union Station. That city left many fond childhood memories for me. Until I was old enough to do a station visit on my own my uncle, or older cousin took me to the station to watch the New York Central passenger trains and freights pass through or make a stop. Grand Central is my all time favorite. Next is LAUPT, Union Station in Wash. D.C., Chicago's Union Station, and Philadelphia's 30th St. Station. As for New York City's Penn Station......so sad for the original destroyed by hungry developers and so disappointing for the newer one topped by Madison Sq. Garden.
Posted by royaltrain (Member # 622) on :
I'm surprised that only one person mentioned Kansas City Mo. I was just through there on my way to Chicago last week, and I was overwhelmed by its grandeur. A lot of money was obviously spent in its renovation, and is nearly as grand as Grand Central Teminal. As well, Amtrak has moved to this truely glorious facility from its former amshack--a great improvement for passengers.
Posted by amtraxmaniac (Member # 2251) on :
I still believe that SAC has the most potential. Inside, it's a gem. Outside, it's everything but.
------------------ Patrick
Posted by Railroad Bob (Member # 3508) on :
My vote for "Most disappointing station in a major city" is definitely Houston, TX. All fans of the Sunset Limited will probably agree with this assessment. Houston, a beautiful glamorous city with a fantastic skyline, far better than Dallas/Austin/Ft. Worth gets a little metal building hidden away under freeway overpasses that is almost impossible to find even by seasoned Houstonians, unless they are Amtrak-literate.
Posted by Mike Smith (Member # 447) on :
Or we know where the main US Post Office is. But even that has been thrown a curve with the re-routing of Washington....
Yep, Houston's station is pretty pathetic, but they do have a Blue Bell ice cream dispenser!!!
Posted by The Chief (Member # 2172) on :
quote:Originally posted by M190:
Dumpiest terminal, King St. in Seattle but that's being remedied.
-- M190, what's the news about King St? I arrived there in Oct. on the Starlight and departed on the Empire Builder and thought it was even dumpier than it was in Aug. 2003 when I was last there... Thanks.
------------------ _________Thë Çhîeƒ _|_|_|_|_
Posted by chrisg (Member # 2488) on :
My home station of Santa Ana with a Christmas Train Layout every year.
Chris
Posted by Railroad Bob (Member # 3508) on :
Yes, Chris, you are right about that SNA layout. Senior Agent Gary does most of the work and is never given any credit by too many of the managers for his hard work every year. However, he does not expect anything, having been around the program so long...that Christmas layout is one of Santa Ana's best secrets, like the Bowers Museum...
Posted by RRRICH (Member # 1418) on :
Chris G - I believe the Winnipeg (Manitoba) VIA station also has a model railroad setup on display, but all year around (at least it did in 1993 the last time I was in that station)
Posted by irish1 (Member # 222) on :
the best new little station is in pensacola fl. it was built when they extended the sunset to miami back in 97 or so. i usually leave from milwaukee and havent been there since last summer. does anybody know if they finally started the renovation? also sturdevant. these were suppose to take place years ago but i have seen no progress.
Posted by dixiebreeze (Member # 3224) on :
Love Portland, Oregon Amtrak Station! Very passenger friendly, 1800s atmosphere, spacious and great first class waiting rooms with coffee, sodas, etc. Plenty of baggage assistance.
Posted by sbalax (Member # 2801) on :
PDX had a Christmas themed train set up in the main concourse when I was there in December. I guess I'll put in a vote here for PDX. Especially the Metropolitan Lounge. Nice place to watch trains if you pull back the curtains. In my heart of hearts, though, I'd have to go with LAUPT or, when the Del Mar Station people get done with it, Pasadena.
Frank in rainy, yes again, SBA.
Posted by Tanner929 (Member # 3720) on :
Came across this old posting, since I love Train Stations I thought we might revisit this survey. I'd like to recomend the New Haven Union Station in CT. It's architecture is similiar to Utica Station. I believe the character of a city/town can be judged on how it keeps its train station.
Posted by rrrayinmd (Member # 4148) on :
How about a catagory - "No longer a train station but still in Good Use". I nominate, though I am partial, Mt Clare Station in Baltimore, former B&0 station now home to the Maryland Art Institute...only station built in a hole in the ground!! Also, Ellicott City, MD and Sykesville, MD. Both ex-B&O stations in small towns on the original "Old Line". Ellicott City is now a RR Museum worth visiting if ever in the Baltimore area. Sykesville Station is now an up scale restaurant "Baldwin's" named after the designer and builder of both the Ellicott City and Sykesville stations.
Posted by sojourner (Member # 3134) on :
This is very old--before I took my western trips and got to see so much more of Amtrak's offerings. Union Station in DC is still probably my favorite Amtrak station, but I have to say I really liked Portland, Oregon, a whole lot, especially the outside. And the staff there were SO nice! The first-class lounge was very very comfortable, and I even got to see a Taglo while I was waiting. Chicago Union Station is huge and attractive, although some of the prettier parts seem underused. But I loved seeing it from the water, taking the architecture tour--a lot of what you see there is not the Amtrak part but the Metra trains, but it really is almost like Venice! I haven't been back to 30th St Philadelphia since I last posted (hope to go later this year) but I do like that one pretty well. I did get a chance to see a bit of Kansas City when the SW Chief stopped there for about 40 minutes, and I liked that one a lot too. Also on the SW Chief line, I liked the Flagstaff station pretty well (including the Gandyman statue outside) and the smaller station of Lamy, NM (very restful and pleasant). And even though it's a little shabby, I still like West Palm Beach for its Spanish/Caribbean feel.
Harpers Ferry, which I've only seen from the train, has got to be the one of the most picturesque locations for any train station. Other stations with nice views of scenery, buildings, etc., from the platform or train were Winter Park FL, by the green; Kissimmee FL; the stop before Tampa (Lakeland?); Glenwood Springs CO; Truckee CA; Eugene OR; Dodge City KS; Rhinecliff NY; West Glacier MT (I think it was that one but I am mixing up the 3 Glacier Park stops and actually I think the others were nice too). The areas around Altoona, FL, Okeechoobee FL, Vancouver WA, Toledo OH, and Quantico VA also have good views, but I cannot remember if you see them from the station or before pulling in or out. Poughkeepsie NY has been fixed up much more nicely than it used to be! (it's a Metro North terminus too). And if you go upstairs from the platform area, the Albany NY station (actually in Rensselaer NY) has a nice view of downtown Albany across the Hudson; the new station is also quite nice as new stations go. I don't remember Utica, but Syracuse looked pretty nice too, though I saw it only from the train. I've been getting more daring in exploring stations when we stop for a little longer, so I also had a chance to explore Orlando more fully on my last FL trip, and liked it much better than what I'd seen before from just the train.
Of non-Amtrak stations, Quebec City in Canada and Grand Central in NY are my favorites; I am planning to take the tour of the latter the next time I am in NYC on a Wednesday. I also recently saw the Hoboken NJ station and was impressed; Newark NJ, OTOH, though all right, was not as nice as I had been led to believe. Ottawa Canada has a nice modern station, but I don't see why it's so far from downtown--I really don't understand why any train stations are so far from downtown. And Montreal isn't bad, the approach across the St Lawrence is great fun, and it definitely has the best food! Denver station was a little disappointing on the inside--serviceable enough, but a bit bare and barrackslike; however, the outside is quite impressive, esp the one-point perspective as you approach (which I think I saw in that film). Sacramento is also a little spare inside but nice enough, and close to some neat things to explore. Cleveland is a nice new train station, well located, but inside could be nicer. Minneapolis (St Paul) and Miami seemed modern but more comfortable; I noticed Minneapolis had a little first-class lounge, which was a surprise to me. Croton-Harmon NY is very nice in a modern way; it's a Metro North station as well as Amtrak.
Pittsburgh has kept its gorgeous old building, but the actual Amtrak area isn't so nice; in Albuquerque, the adjoining bus terminal is amazingly nice, and at first I thought it was the train station. When I saw the actual Amtrak area , that dumpy little thing (looking more like my usual idea of a bus terminal!), I was not very impressed. I also didn't like Jacksonville much, in the middle of nowhere and not particularly attractive either; and Fort Lauderdale looked very dumpy from the train. Atlanta is nice enough but way too small for the number of people there when I was. I really didn't notice the stations as much as I should have in Charleston and Savannah when I went to those cities, and since then have always been sleeping when I go through; however, I do recall they were both a little too far from the downtown area.
The most disappointing station for me was Salt Lake City; I stayed up late to see it and then when we got there, there was nothing there!!!
Posted by Bil (Member # 4276) on :
Since the remodel, Eugene, OR is a beautiful small station. Before it was a ugly museum of what was wrong with 1970's architecture!
Bil
Posted by Jerome Nicholson (Member # 3116) on :
you didn't say, but it is implied we only cite the stations we've actually seen/used. So: Most Overwhelming: Washington Union. Works on so many levels- as a train station(LD, commuter, corridor). access, the Metro, buses, and Tourmobiles stop there. Amenities. not a bad place to spend a layover; it even has cinemas. As well as the aforementioned shopping and restaurants. Second place: Grand Central. Included because Amtrak "sometimes" uses it. The Great Hall with the constellations painted on it (backwards) is a fine touch. Third: Toronto Union. Its huge vaulted ceiling ringed with the names of Canadian cities served by Canada's two great railroads seems sad, given some are not now served by VIA. This station is to get a major renovation along the lines of Washington Union. Most picturesque: Bridgeport, CT. A surprise I found as my Acela Express waited for time. A relatively small station for the NEC, but a gem. Second place: San Diego. A pretty little jewel box filled with everything a traveler needs, and the red trolleys stop right there. Third: Boston South. An early 20th century bldg. that's mostly hollow, but nicely filled with vendors, a first class lounge, and a full view of the trains through the picture windows. Most contemporary: Oakland Jack London. I didn't get to spend hardly any time in this one, because the Thruway coach connection to S.F. was there as I got off the C.Z., and the C. S. was waiting when I got to the station the next week. Thoroughly modern, though. In most need of a facelift(if they haven't already): Charlottesville, VA. Broken windows, peeling paint on the waiting room; no wonder the doors stayed locked. Most conveniently located: Grand Central, N.Y. C. 42nd Street, Lex Ave Subway, buses & taxis galore. Second place: Williamsburg, VA. A combined station with Greyhound, a 2 block walk from the Colonial area and William and Mary College. Least conveniently located: Wells, ME. A tiny modern depot in the middle of NOTHING! A $20 cab ride to Kennebunkport. Second place: Richmond, VA. (Staples Mill Station). For 3 decades this Amshack was Richmond's only Amtrak station, in the suburbs 20 miles from downtown. City buses stop 3 blocks from (but not at night or weekends). At least there are some eateries in the strip mall 2 blocks down the street. Most historic: Flagstaff Santa FE. Well preserved (perhaps unintentionally) feel of the Old West as you await the SWC. Second place: Richmond, VA. (Main Street Station) A work in progress, this station serves some Corridor trains that pass beside it on tracks elevated to the second story. This is because its neighborhood is in a flood plain.The bldg is a century-old Beaux Arts copy of a French Chateau, with a roof full of cupolas and gingerbread-like filigree, a clock tower that Interstate 95 nearly touches, and a trainshed in the rear. The surrounding area is Richmond's nightclub-restaurant district. I realize this is biased toward the East, but I felt I should boost my part of the Country.
Posted by Jerome Nicholson (Member # 3116) on :
Oops, I forgot : The "Don't go outside the Station Building " Award. Washington Union. (at night) Yes, the Capital Dome is pretty seen from the front of the station, but DO NOT go to it at night, unless you are in a large group or you happen to be Batman. Second place: New Orleans Union. Or WAS, before Katrina. And second place Most conveniently located: Chicago Union. Next door to the Sears Tower. Ya can't miss it! Williamsburg, VA should have been third.
Posted by Railroad Bob (Member # 3508) on :
While we're on this topic, I can't resist mentioning LA's Greyhound terminal in the heart of what is arguably the worst skid row in America. I know it's not RR, but sometimes Amtrak passengers need to go here. Don't go for a sightseeing stroll in this 'hood please, unless you have a CCW and what goes with it.
Posted by CHANGEATJAMAICA (Member # 3737) on :
You folks who've chosen Washington's Union Station must be relying on the concourse, rotunda and other "public" areas; because the "business" end of the station...at least that portion through which the Crescent transits the Nation's Capitol is a disaster and a downright shame. You might as well consider Toledo beautiful, because it's platforms most nearly mirror the LD platforms at Washington
Posted by RRRICH (Member # 1418) on :
Change at Jamaica -- I am not sure what you mean about Washington DC Union Station -- what is the "business end?" I agree with other posters that this is a beautiful station, considering its conventient location, its dozens and dozens of shops, restaurants, etc., its Club Acela 1st class Lounge, and its nice covered platforms.
Posted by sojourner (Member # 3134) on :
Change at Jamaica: Yes, that is what I'm focusing on. But I am not sure which part you mean. The platforms where I've always arrived (usually on a Regional) or waited (the Florida or one time the Crescent) seemed fine to me. What part do you mean?
Jerome: I've had dinner in the Union Station area between Union Station and Capitol at night and never found it too unsafe. Of course, this was 9 or 10 o'clock; I'm not sure what time you mean. I guess it also depends on which direction and street you mean. But there are some pretty nice hotels between Union Station and the Capitol (I know one has a nice Irish bar called the Dubliners in it) and a restaurant called La Colline in that area and so on.
Posted by CG96 (Member # 1408) on :
Here's one station that's no longer on the Amtrak network, yet modestly attractive nonetheless: D.U.D., aka Duluth Union Depot, in Duluth, MN. It has the Lake Superior Transport Museum contained within. It's done in the French Norman style, and looks like a chalet. it has the capacity to serve 60 trains per day. http://www.duluthdepot.org/ Posted by abefroman329 (Member # 3986) on :
quote:Originally posted by RRRICH: Change at Jamaica -- I am not sure what you mean about Washington DC Union Station -- what is the "business end?" I agree with other posters that this is a beautiful station, considering its conventient location, its dozens and dozens of shops, restaurants, etc., its Club Acela 1st class Lounge, and its nice covered platforms.
The through platforms at the east end of the station, used by the LD trains for points south and the Regional trains continuing to Newport News, as well as the VRE trains. Platforms themselves are very ugly and the corridors inside the station leading to them are like hospital corridors (though at least they have large windows looking down on the tracks). Boarding the Crescent is nothing like boarding the Capitol Limited.
Posted by Jerome Nicholson (Member # 3116) on :
Changeatjamaica and abefroman329, you are right about the platforms used by the Southbound passengers. That seems to be a part of the station remodeling they forgot to complete. A far cry from the platform used by Acela Express passengers! That one reminds me of a futuristic airport. But the platform/ramp takes about 20-25% of the total station experience. And far fewer passengers use that section, as most travel to/from the NEC. Speaking of Greyhound, I notice the bus station attached to Boston South is even more attractive than the train station! How often does this happen?
Posted by train lady (Member # 3920) on :
Mr. Nicholson, I very strongly disagree with you about Bridgeport. To me it is the pits! When arriving from the south you have to take the elevator ,if it is working, down drag your bags through a tunnel under the tracks to the street. There is no parking and anyone meeting you has to sit in a locked car waiting because it is in a terrible part of town. Frankly I find absolutely nothing pleasing about it. It isn't even an Amtrak station. It's for commuter trains. You can't check baggage, get a redcap or buy a ticket. I guess it proves the fact that oeople's opinions do differ. As to all the complaints about DC I guess I am one who doesn't care about the looks of the platform. Maybe that is because we always get taken out to the train by the people mover.I love the inside. the restaurants offer so much choice and the shops are great for browsing. The lounge is so comfortable. I think one of the more horrible ones is Birmingham Al followed by Charleston, SC
Posted by SunsetLtd (Member # 3985) on :
My home station..El Paso,Tx gets my vote as well as Tucson,Az.
Posted by Tanner929 (Member # 3720) on :
Mr Nichelson,
Thank you for your kind words about Bridgeport Ct, we here in CT don't often hear many good things about Bridgeport. What is best about the Bridgeport Station is the view of the Bridgeport Harbor and the small modern baseball stadium "Home of the Bridgeport Bluefish." The trains, Amtrak and Metro North pass behind the right field wall.
I love the Richmond Main Street Station it is restored along with area, its not just clubs and restraunts but they have restored the old water canal with tour boats right over the three level track. Cudoes for Richmonds use of the old Union Station now a Science Musueum but with many of the train station signs and areas kept up.
Posted by Jerome Nicholson (Member # 3116) on :
Thanks. BTW, Richmond Union is still a working station-kinda. The American Orient Express uses it on its "Antebellum South" tour by backing onto the single remaining track behind the station from the RF&P railyard near the Staples Mill Station. It stays there a couple of nights during the tour.
Posted by Southwest Chief (Member # 1227) on :
If it hasn't been said already then I'll say it. Worst Amtrak station of them all......
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Nothing more then an old Santa Fe MOW building used for the station. Such a large city and hub of the southwest deserves better. Maybe if the Rail Runner becomes successful the city might see the need for a better long distance terminal....but seems unlikely. Poor ABQ Posted by Jerome Nicholson (Member # 3116) on :
I used the Anbuquerque statiion once, and the only reason I didn't list it as one of the worst was the Navajo selling trinkets on the platform. Besides, its windows weren't broken.
Posted by UncleBuck44 (Member # 2049) on :
Most underrated: Marshall, Texas
Biggest craphole: Amshack in St. Louis(retired in 2004)
Posted by Tanner929 (Member # 3720) on :
Thank you for all your inputs. I love to travel down through our Japanese friends station site http://snow.prohosting.com/usarail/ . The question is "When will he ever get to Vermont?" It is great that many of the historic stations are being renovated. I guess if you ever look at Penn Station its legacy is that it so many cities and towns across the country felt it was a crime to tear down there train stations. Looking at some of those Amshack's in places like Rochester, St Louis and Cincinnati you had the feeling the designers and builders felt the trains would not be running too much longer.
Love to here about other interesting train stations Amtrak or not. I just spent a portion of my tax return on station picture books from the Train Web section I think I need a new coffee table.
Posted by RRRICH (Member # 1418) on :
I haven't looked at our Japanese friend's web site lately, but I believe he has stopped (at least temporarily) photographing stations because of the recent hype about security and photographing on RR property.
![[Frown]](frown.gif)