Union Station in Portland, Oregon, is more than just a stop for trains—it’s a gateway to the past and a vital link in the Pacific Northwest’s transportation network. Opened in 1896, the station has served generations of travelers with its iconic 150-foot clock tower and distinctive “Go By Train” neon sign, a beloved sight for locals and visitors alike.
The station is a hub for Amtrak services, seeing roughly 20 trains daily. Key routes include the Coast Starlight (connecting Seattle to Los Angeles), the Empire Builder (linking Portland to Chicago), and the Cascades service (a line stretching from Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia). Many travelers enjoy the route to
Seattle is a common destination, but Union Station provides direct services to places like San Francisco and Spokane.
8 Little-Known Facts about Union Station:
- Historical Significance: Union Station was designed by the architectural firm Van Brunt & Howe, known for using the Richardsonian Romanesque style. This style features the building’s distinct arches and robust stone construction.
- World War II Role: During World War II, Union Station became a central point for troops departing for the Pacific. The station was filled with soldiers, families, and United Service Organization (USO) personnel offering farewells. Soldiers returning after World War II were greeted with heartfelt community support. Families, friends, and sometimes entire neighborhoods would gather on the station platforms, waiting eagerly to welcome their loved ones home.
- A Unique Interior: Visitors can admire the original wood and marble elements dating back to the station’s opening in 1896. Despite several renovations, the station has retained much of its original charm.
- Timekeeping Legacy: The clock tower has operated since the station opened. It was a critical resource for travelers in the early days when few people had personal timepieces.
- Earthquake Resilience: Union Station underwent significant seismic retrofitting in the early 2000s to ensure its stability during an earthquake.
- Historic Renovation: In 1987, the station underwent a major renovation funded by local taxes and grants, preserving its architectural integrity for future generations.
- Celebrity Stops: Over the decades, many famous figures, from Bing Crosby to presidents like Franklin D. Roosevelt, have passed through Union Station.
- “Secret” Balcony: An often-overlooked balcony overlooks the waiting room; it was once reserved for dignitaries and special events.
The Portland Image spoke with a station employee who requested anonymity. She glowed about her love for working at the station. “It’s the best job I ever had. The easiest, the funniest. It’s an emotional job. I love it. [We’ve] saved lives [and] sold tickets.” After an incident with a passenger nearly ended in tragedy, the station contacted the Red Cross to conduct first aid courses to certify staff members.
Traveling from Union Station offers diverse destinations and prices. For instance, a one-way trip to Seattle can cost around $30, while traveling to Los Angeles on the Coast Starlight can be as high as $130. A journey eastward on the Empire Builder to Chicago might range from $150 to over $200, depending on the class of travel and booking time.
With its storied past and a bustling daily schedule, Union Station remains a vibrant piece of Portland’s heritage, linking the past to the present for those passing through its doors.
