I don't actually think I've been inside Union station the whole time living in LA. I've been out front picking someone up but never actually been in and walked around. First time and it was a little intimidating. I like to know what to do and how to get about with it. Picture me, someone who has never been inside trying to find their way around dragging a suitcase.... lol... I had a connection coming from Palm Springs which lead me to here. It's quite big and the whole Amtrak, Surfliner to metro was a learner for me. First off, I never knew that you could actually take public transportation from the city to the desert. I had a connection ended at Union which was pretty easy to get around. It's a pretty big station but plenty of signs to get you where you need to be. Plus with the metro, it's pretty self explanatory with the colors for the train. There's construction going on in the tunnel which wasn't much of a factor as we got to where we needed to be. Also, I didn't expect loads of food stalls available. I guess you have to feed people while they're waiting. I believe the main tunnel area was where all the trains, ie Amtrak and Surfliners come in while the another is where all the Metros are. There was plenty of staff on hand with questions if needed. I did both arrival and departure on the same day to test out the whole process. It was quite simple. Even if you arrive early, your train can already be docked and waiting till departure. Make sure to look on the board for which gate you suppose to be at. It's a big station but pretty simple once you get the hang of it. read more

Yes, it's a very historic building, the architecture is neat, I love that there's a fish aquarium there, lots of exhibits and events, but as someone who has had to use the public transit here, it's not the best to say the least. Parking is affordable, but can get fisted and it's nice that they have the free Dodger Express Shuttle. But the restrooms are abysmal, especially for the women's restroom and the men's isn't any cleaner (according to friends' first hand accounts) and there's always litter somewhere and the subtle scent of human waste, but that's the DTLA experience if anything. That's why when I was told we were going to go to Union Station for dinner (when I was in Denver), I was aghast. Completely different expectations and execution. Union Station does its job, could always be a bit better, it's just that society needs to get to that point and we need to be a bit less of a car driven (haha) ecosystem where public transit is more friendlier and easier to use. read more

I've been to Union Station several times over the years, and overall it's a decent transportation hub if you're trying to get around Los Angeles without driving.. One of the best options here is the LAX FlyAway Bus, which is a convenient and relatively affordable way to get to the airport.. I've used it before when traveling and it makes avoiding traffic and parking at LAX a lot easier.. I've also taken transit from here after trips to get all the way out to Rancho Cucamonga, which shows how useful this station can be for connecting to different parts of Southern California.. Just keep in mind that buses usually run every hour to hour and a half, so it's important to check the schedule ahead of time and purchase your ticket before boarding.. The station itself has been remodeled and is actually pretty nice inside... There are a few restaurants and places to grab food while you wait, along with seating areas where you can lounge until your bus or train arrives.. Outside the station, though, it's still downtown LA. Some areas around it aren't the nicest and there can be a lot of homeless people nearby, so I'd recommend staying inside the station rather than wandering too far outside... The interior is kept pretty clean and monitored, which makes it feel safer while you're waiting... Overall, it's a large transit hub and a good option if you don't have a car or want to avoid LA traffic. It's also a good place to start if you've never taken the Metro or trains in California. I actually used to come here in my teens, since we didn't drive, we'd take the Metro to Union Station and then make our way around LA for a day trip. It's not perfect, but it definitely gets the job done.. read more

Old school since 1939. Our west coast stations are a closet size compared to stations on the east coast of the country. I usually take the metro gold line and the LAX airport bus shuttle for convenience and the value. These last few weeks I have seen more security and police presence due to the upcoming World Cup events. That's a good thing as the trains were becoming homeless druggie rolling motels which were are an embarrassment to any visitors seeing this from other states and countries. read more

Beautiful space with art installations in the building. They have a limited seating area and you need a Metrolink or Amtrak ticket to seat there. They have some food places (with no seats) The bathrooms are ok. Maybe because there was construction there were not clear indicators of where to go for your train. They do have a lot of personal that helped find the right track to wait for the train read more

Union Station - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

lanes can be confusing for drivers and pick up, recommend to pin location so you can remember for future. Back entrance is newer and front entrance has the original facade. They have security personnel present in many places. read more

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Union Station in Los Angeles is always a whirlwind, busy, loud, and full of motion, but somehow still incredibly beautiful at the same time. Walking into the original part of the building feels like stepping into a classic old movie set, with soaring ceilings, tiled floors, and that grand train station energy you do not see much anymore. Even when it feels chaotic, I find myself slowing down just to take it all in and appreciate the history baked into the walls. It is also incredibly functional with tons of connections heading in every direction, which makes it feel like the true heartbeat of the city. Add in the surprisingly convenient parking and it becomes one of those places that is both practical and genuinely impressive, even on the most hectic days. read more

Union Station - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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My review is only for the Union Station itself not including the trains. Union station is huge and beautiful. The architecture is lovely...outside and in. I love the waiting area. It has beautiful chandeliers and ceiling. A lot of art decorates the walls throughout the hallways. There are many security guards walking around checking to make sure it is safe here. There are also many employees walking around and they'll help you with directions or train schedules if needed. If you have to wait for the train for a while and you're hungry or thirsty there are some restaurants but they close pretty early. However, there is a Starbucks, wetzel pretzels, subway and a small minimart. Restroom is clean but if you see something unusual, you can report to the security, they will deal with it. read more

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It appears as though safety and security are an afterthought at Union Station. I had to be at Union Station as I took the Flyaway there from LAX. I did not feel safe. It appears as though Union Station has become a part of skid row. This is completely unacceptable for one of the busiest transit hubs in LA. Although the trains, buses, and light rail pass by here, I would definitely not voluntarily come here if I could avoid it. read more

Beautiful architecture, a food court and right in the heart of LA. Right across from Olvera Street. read more

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UNION STATION in Los Angeles is the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States and is often regarded as "the last of the great train stations"!! We like to park at Union Station, so we can jump on the free Dodgers Stadium Express bus to get to the stadium! We couldn't believe how easy it was when we first rode it. We would much rather use this method than parking at stadium because it saves us money and it's stress free! Lines moves fast since busses pick up every 10 minutes. They operate like a well-oiled machine! This historical landmark is iconic and grand! I always feel safe due to the amount of security here. So many transportation options from this central location too like Metro Rail/Bus/Bike Share, FlyAway (to/from LAX), Amtrak, and others. There's a convenience store, Starbucks, and a few dining options inside. And just across the street you can visit El Pueblo Historical Monument and the ever-so-popular Olvera Street for Mexican food and souvenir shopping read more

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Was taking the train on a recent visit and came through the L.A. Union Station. I have traveled through here for years whenever I was commuting somewhere, including longer travels on Amtrak. Union Station is a major transportation hub in the metropolitan area of Los Angeles and it connects with all the major and local trains like: Amtrak, Metrolink, Metro LA, Metro Bus, and FlixBus. You really can get lost here if you happen to come here for the first time, but there are plenty of staff that can help to get you to the right track/lines. The main front entrance has all the original, beautiful arhitecture and parts of the station, with some of the vintage signage from the 1930s, though much of the very original decor/furnishings has since been removed. There is an outside patio that you can sit and relax and a reserved seating area for ticket holders. There's a Starbucks, Wetzels Pretzels, Subway, and a conveinence store at the center of the station along with the restrooms. At the other side of the station, when you walk through the long cooridor (probably about 1/2 mile distance...there are staff on golf carts that roam through it, so it can be quite a walk if walking is a challenge for anyone), there's also restrooms and a coffeeshop there and the bus stations. This station is VERY busy, you will see hundreds if not thousands of people when you arrive or depart from here. There can be some transients and random people that hang out here, but they don't usually bother travelers, as there is security throughout the station and they guard the entrance, restrooms, and the general common areas. read more

Union Station - Lots of its original architecture still intact at this station. - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Around Thanksgiving, I treated myself to a solo day trip from Union Station down to San Juan Capistrano via the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and the whole experience was fantastic! My train departed fairly early on a Saturday morning which made getting to the station smooth and stress free. I did some research ahead of my outing and learned that parking at Union Station East is cheaper than Union Station West, so of course that's where I parked. It was super easy, convenient, felt safe/secure, and had no issues. Union Station is so beautiful between the architecture, the high ceilings, the tiled floors, and the overall old-Hollywood grandeur of it all, Union Station is really a landmark and not just a transit hub. I was especially thankful for the very clear signage (because there's nothing more stressful than wondering if you're on the right track) and the public restrooms which were much appreciated after a cup of coffee on the way to the station hehe The only real downside for me was the large unhoused presence around the station. While everything felt safe and all was well during my visit, it adds a layer of reality and sadness to an otherwise lovely place. All that to say, Union Station is a wonderful optoin for an adventure and this trip reminded me how much I enjoy traveling by train! read more

I often pass through Union Station when I come to LA. I'm from San Diego, so the Amtrak goes straight here. The Flyaway shuttle service to LAX from Union Station is awesome as well. Union Station is a historic building that is aesthetically beautiful. The hallways and waiting areas still hold the splendor of a bygone era. The station connects to almost anywhere in California and beyond. There's something of a homeless presence, but hey, it's a stone's throw from downtown LA, and CA's in the midst of an ongoing housing crisis. Another perk of the station is its good assortment of food stops. Wi-Fi suggestion -- avoid paying $1.99 for an hour of Wi-Fi at Union Station by sitting in the departures lounge (near the grand piano) and using the Amtrak Wi-Fi for free. P.S. -- the Subway sandwich shop here is exceptionally clean and good. read more

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this so beautiful and such grand metro station. heading back san diego from here is so easy. read more

Union Station - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Union Station in downtown Los Angeles is one of the most beautiful buildings and it absolutely nostalgia for me. My grandfather had traveled through the union station since the 1940s. When I go here, I definitely think of him and his travels and when he would arrive and walk down to Felipe's to get a sandwich before, heading home to my grandmother, it brings me the most joy. The architecture is gorgeous Had a drink in the bar and just people watched read more

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Beautiful place, historical, fairly clean, lots of security and people working to ask for help, but so many homeless people in and around the place. Doesn't always feel safe. Don't recommend being here at night. read more

Union Station - Inside - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I feel like most major cities that host a large number of tourists have a hub called Union Station. From New York to DC and then to Los Angeles, you'll find that Union Station is one of the busiest places that one could visit. However, this review focused specially on the Los Angeles location. Union Station is a commuter's go to location when it comes to getting around Southern California. Amtrak, Metrolink, Subways, Metro Lines, and Greyhound bus lines all call Union Station home. It's where many people take one of the services into Los Angeles and connect to other forms of transportation to venture around Los Angeles and to cities further away. There are a few things to do to pass time while waiting for a train etc. A small food court supplies people with snacks to curb your appetite while you wait. You could walk toward the front of the station and have a seat as you take in the beautiful architecture. Also, you could take a step outside to grab a bite to eat if you're craving something more filling. As for whether or not you'll feel safe at Union Station....well...my advice to you is to be cognizant of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for security or law enforcement in case you need to flag them down. Everyone from all walks of life comes through here and sometimes, it can be stressful. Union Station is a place that leads to many adventures. Amtrak can take you from coast to coast and you can always take Metrolink in to connect with Amtrak. You could drive in and leave your vehicle in the underground parking garage. Everything is super convenient! You'll always be on some kind of adventure at Union Station. Each experience will be different from the previous one. Nevertheless, it's always nice to visit the area as there's so much history within this building and so much to explore when you venture out into the city! read more

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Great public transportation service with several different routes and schedules that offer a great alternate to driving! For many years, I worked in Los Angeles by Union Station. The Metro-link train saved me so much in time, mileage on my personal vehicle, got me to my destination safely, and on time. Union Station is an iconic building in the downtown Los Angeles area. It is amazing how they have successfully managed to maintain and restore its image, from the beautiful tile, furnishings, the archways, cathedral ceilings, pedestrian walkways and tunnel pathways. Union Station has been featured in many movies and TV shows. Thousands of people walk through their doors on a daily basis. Several eateries and little shops provide soft drinks, desserts, sandwiches, coffee, jewelry, and even a shoe-shine station. You can connect to: - Daily express bus to LAX airport; - Surfliner to Laguna Beach; - Amtrak to San Diego; - Redline subway to Wilshire area; - Gold line to Pasadena; - Express bus to Dodger stadium during baseball season only. Several banquet rooms and patio areas are available for private parties, which I recently attended a wine tasting event that accommodated several hundred guests. Enjoy the ride and don't forget to tell em that Rosemary sent ya!! read more

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I'm not an architectural expert but this is a beautiful building. Gorgeous wood everywhere. Soaring ceilings and a flowering courtyard. It's a mixed crowd but we felt very safe. It's worth a visit if you're in the area. read more

Union Station - Welcome to Union Station - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Union station, the middle of all the train stations and Dtla. Parking $8/day. Right now 6/6-6/8 2025, it's free rides on any metro bus or train. Free rides!!! Just go through the gates without any tap card or needing to pay. Restrooms in the station. Lots of security and workers if you have questions. The train seats are dirty. Just beware cuz of homeless people everywhere. Very convenient if you want to drive to Dtla or anywhere without needing to worry about parking. Bus and train is very cheap. read more

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Union Station is my north star when I'm in LA. Its incredibly busy as its one of the largest in the states, despite it being pretty small compared to other metropolitan cities and its safe even thoughout the night. It serves both the amtrak and local metro lines, other lines that will connect you to Long Beach, Ventura, Oceanside etc. as well as greyhound. They are going through an expansion plan and should start in a few years but they have been saying that for years. Staff is plentiful in and around the area. There's always someone to talk to and ask a question if needbe. They offer a lounge which is accessible with an upgraded ticket but from what I hear, it's not too luxurious. If you want a quiet area and avoid the headache of the general area and enjoy some free coffee, soda, tea etc. then this is the place for you. Union Station is open to the public from 4:00 am to 1:00 am daily. They offer overnight and long term parking but beware of where you park. There are east gates and west gates. East gates are only for overnight / long term. You also need to download a form so you dont get towed / fined. $8.00 is what you'll pay in the east lot, west lot you'll pay up to $16.00. They offer free shuttles to Dodger stadium on game days. Pretty lovely place. Old school architecture which brings a lot of character to the spot. read more

Recently visited Union Station to catch the Dodger Express to Dodger Stadium. Took the train from Fullerton, exited at Union Station and there were tons of signs directing you to the Dodger Express shuttle. Hopped on right away, I did not have to show anyone my Dodger ticket and was at the Center field entrance in 15 minutes. I will never drive to the stadium again! read more

Union Station is the hub for most of the train lines and commuter train lines for LA. The hallway where all the seats are at is big and was used as a film location for a few films.there is a big hall that lets you know where the trains are at. The only issue is that when it rains there can be large puddles in this hall and the restrooms are really clean but that's partly because of other issues since these do have custodian crew come and clean them up periodically. read more

Union Station - Union Station from metro A line - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Love the decor, the building, the art, the layout of this LA landmark. The inside is amazing with art decor throughout the station. They have the old ticket counters that are no longer in service (too bad), it looks like still useable and especially in the grand hallway on the left upon enter the station. Parking can be a hassle since there is construction right infront of the station. But there are several parking lot behind and one with direct with entrance building. There are shops (used to be a lot), restaurants (used to have tons but now just fast food), rest area but big comfy chairs, and easy directions of where to go. But also the plenty of homeless too using the bathroom for changing & cleaning so it's abit dirty. There is also a piano that was played by a random person (when I was there) so great background music echoing through the station. There are also plenty of staff /security throughout the station so you can feel safe abit. Check it out if you're in the area or happens to use the metro for transportation. read more

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The original LAX is so full or charm! This art deco style interior as well as exterior building is one busy area. You can catch the light rails, Metro link and Amtrak. There are quick bite eateries like trauma, and Starbucks. There are ambassadors all around the station to assist you with your travels experience. I took the train to the historic Los Rios area aboard the Pacific Surfliner. This is an hour and 20 minutes ride. This was an inexpensive trip to the historic area of Los Rios. This ride is very comfortable in the plush seats. The seating area will accommodate 4 adults to area or you can sit in the two to a seat area. read more

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This is such a beautiful station! Reminds me of the 1920's era! This was our stop for going to Olvera street from Rancho station. There's a convenience store, Starbucks, Wetzels pretzels as you're walking thru. There's also displays that are like mini museum exhibits. I absolutely loved stopping here! read more

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I hadn't been to union station in 40 years. It was surprisingly easy to navigate and user friendly. Classic architecture in a historic building. Don't miss the chance to eat at Philippe's just a couple of blocks away and walk olvera street across the street while you are there. Metro, Metrolink, Amtrak, and city busses all operated from union station. On home game days there's even a shuttle to dodger stadium. read more

1 star for the ticket counter. You told my parents that the seats are sold out yet I was able to buy them a ticket 5 hours sooner on the Amtrak website. Figure out your job and figure out your system because clearly you don't know what you are doing read more

Our city needs better public transportation and I'm impressed by the improvements Union Station has made in recent years. There are more guards and helpers who reach out to passengers and provide assistance. There are better signage. It is a major hub so can be confusing. I'd suggest asking the staff for help to anyone with questions. In case you missed your train and have to wait for the next one, the courtyard outside the waiting room is clean and very pleasant. There's also an outdoor patio dining area in the cafe. read more

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Union station an eclectic melting pot of Southern California travelers. The interesting sights and smells may tickle your nostrils to keep a mask handy. Long ramp ways may keep the speed walkers at bay with some slower walkers taking it one step at a time. Food! Yes there's a Starbucks and Wetzel's pretzels. ATM and restrooms, seating area and grand piano for all those musicians wanting to express some talent. LA souvenirs and small cocktail bar. The station has a grand lobby with beautiful architectural design. Separate space for hosting an event or party. I have taken the train a handful of times but have never thought of this as a venue space. Indeed a new perspective. Uber pick up/drop off is right at the front entrance on the north side next to the turn out by the benches. Scooter and bike rental available in parking lot. Olvera street is right across the way. Also within walking distance is the famous Philippe's, Chinatown and Howlin Rays! read more

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Attended the Union Station Train Festival on 9/21/2025 which was a free event for all ages and was a 2 day event at the Union Station in Downtown LA. Parking was a flat daily rate of $8 in the parking structure and we parked in P4 E which was right by the elevators. The line to see the locomotives was about an hour wait which was well worth it to see the vintage trains as well as the Surfliner. The Steam train had an extra charge as well as a time slot which didn't fit into our schedule so we opted out and just took photos of the train. Staff were very helpful and friendly, the event was a great opportunity to experience Union Station in all its glory. Restrooms were clean and food areas were clean as well. The waiting area seemed very spacious and comfortable. There's even an aquarium near the exit of the bus depot which added a California style to this already iconic train station. Thanks to the event staff for the Union Station Train Festival for making this a memorable event for my family, looking forward to more of these types of events in the future! read more

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Los Angeles Union Station feels less like a gateway to the city and more like a pressure cooker. Passengers openly smoking and vaping, loud music echoing through the Metro, people coughing and sneezing without a second thought, restrooms with overwhelming odors, tense and irritable travelers, and visible homelessness spilling into the seating areas--it all creates an atmosphere of strain rather than welcome. What makes it even more unsettling is the sense that none of this exists in a vacuum. The chaos feels symptomatic of a larger system under stress. When a transit hub reflects this much exhaustion, it says something bigger about the city around it. read more

Los Angeles is doing its best to improve mass transit and Union Station is an example of how it is done. Having the Metro Red line stop in the station which makes transferring from or to MetroLink convenient. We take the train down to San Diego at least once a year and Union Station makes that trip easy. With $8 a day onsite parking, and one of the most beautiful train stations in the country you don't mind hanging around if you're early for your train. read more

What went well? Everything. I took advantage of the metro and grabbed the dodgers stadium express. Completely complimentary for ticket holders / game goers. $1.50 buys you a one way trip to Union station, where you'll catch the Dodgers Express Bus. I love skipping the hefty parking fee, traffic, and stress. I'm not a chill driver, so I prefer to avoid it when I can. I highly recommend taking the metro during game days. After the game, grabbing some ramen at little Tokyo, a drink at Far Bar, or playing arcade games at eighty two LA is always a good idea. The arts district is such a vibe, but Chinatown is pretty sweet too especially during their summer night concerts. read more

Union Station - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Beautiful building. The architecture is phenomenal. The deco style brings you back to decades gone by. Lots of parking down below. Lots of snack options in the station. Restrooms and water fountains handy and well marked. read more

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Such an amazing beautiful and historical building. Always a great destination stop from your train adventure. Chinatown and Olvera St is within such a close walking distance for some excellent food options. read more

Union Station - A special set up for the highly successful series of the Queens Gambit. - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Sometimes this is my way of not dealing with the traffic just park stop at the traxx bar inside have a drink and hop on the train and ride read more

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Really amazing architecture. I visited on train day. But funny enough, we drove there instead of taking the trains. read more

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My first time using Amtrak and I wasn't impressed! I used Metrolink a lot and I can compare notes, Metrolink arrives on time, trains are cleaner and not crowded. Amtrak was late to arrive into Union Station. Very crowded, lots of people waiting to get on. Crazy inside to get a seat, some folks couldn't, so they had to stand! The people working on the train were overwhelmed and turned short, rude and panicky! Not impressed. They also have an outdated system leaving notes to what stop you get off at! The trains are old, dirty, especially the windows! You can buy drinks and snacks, I wasn't interested, but folks start on wine and bear at 10 am LOL. The stops are short so watch it and be prepared when they announce to start getting closer to your destination. Late on the way back, crowded again, the seat I found first had no window. Moved later on, the ticket checker was surprised. Just wanted to be able to look out the window! So mixed feelings. I like riding trains, but Amtrak can be better! read more

Union Station - Train Stations Near Me - Los Angeles, California