Nestled in the vibrant heart of Oregon’s largest city, portland amtrak station, officially known as Union Station, stands as both a transportation hub and a treasured landmark. With its iconic “Go By Train” neon sign glowing above the skyline, this station captures the spirit of a city that beautifully blends history, architecture, and innovation. More than just a stop for travelers, it’s a cultural touchpoint that connects people to the scenic Pacific Northwest through timeless rail journeys.
Union Station in Portland has been welcoming passengers since 1896, making it one of the oldest continuously operating train stations in the western United States. The station’s design, created by the esteemed firm Van Brunt & Howe, reflects the grandeur of the late 19th century with Romanesque Revival architecture characterized by red brick, arched windows, and a striking 150-foot clock tower.
For over a century, this station has played a crucial role in connecting Portland with major destinations along the West Coast and beyond. From the golden age of steam engines to today’s modern rail lines, Union Station has remained a steadfast witness to Portland’s evolution from a frontier town to a thriving metropolitan hub.
Walking into Union Station feels like stepping back in time. The interior is adorned with marble floors, ornate wooden benches, and brass fixtures that exude early 20th-century elegance. The station’s waiting area, with its high ceilings and vintage lighting, evokes nostalgia for a slower, more romantic era of travel.
The “Go By Train” sign atop the clock tower, installed in 1948, is an enduring symbol of Portland’s love for rail travel. It not only greets passengers arriving from afar but also serves as an emblem of the city’s preservation of its historic identity amidst urban growth.
Union Station isn’t just a piece of history—it’s a fully functional and efficient rail hub. The station serves several major Amtrak routes, including the Coast Starlight, which runs between Seattle and Los Angeles; the Amtrak Cascades, connecting Portland to Vancouver, B.C., and Eugene; and the Empire Builder, which journeys all the way to Chicago.
Inside, passengers find modern conveniences like Wi-Fi, restrooms, baggage check, an Amtrak ticketing office, and accessible facilities for travelers with disabilities. The first-class Metropolitan Lounge offers premium comfort for those holding sleeper or business-class tickets, providing a quiet space with refreshments and dedicated assistance.
Just outside, the station is well-connected to Portland’s extensive public transportation system, including light rail, streetcars, and buses. This seamless integration makes it easy for travelers to explore the city or transfer to other modes of transport without hassle.
Union Station is located in the Pearl District, one of Portland’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. Once an industrial area filled with warehouses, the district has transformed into a lively community of boutiques, art galleries, and trendy eateries. Just steps from the station, visitors can enjoy riverside parks, coffee shops, and some of the best local dining experiences Portland has to offer.
Nearby, the Willamette River invites leisurely strolls along its scenic waterfront, while the Lan Su Chinese Garden and Powell’s City of Books—a world-famous independent bookstore—are just a short walk or ride away. Whether you’re arriving in Portland for the first time or setting out on your next adventure, the surroundings of Union Station embody the creative and welcoming spirit that defines the city.
In recent years, Union Station has undergone several renovations aimed at preserving its historic integrity while improving sustainability and accessibility. The city of Portland, known for its environmental leadership, has supported efforts to enhance energy efficiency, upgrade lighting systems, and modernize the building’s infrastructure.
These improvements ensure that the station continues to serve both locals and tourists in a way that honors its heritage while embracing the future. As rail travel gains renewed popularity for its eco-friendly advantages, Union Station stands as a model of how historic transportation hubs can thrive in the modern era.
What makes Union Station special isn’t just its architecture or history—it’s the experience it offers. Watching the trains arrive and depart under the grand clock tower evokes a timeless sense of adventure. Passengers boarding a long-distance route like the Coast Starlight are treated to panoramic views of forests, coastlines, and mountain ranges, making the journey itself an unforgettable part of the trip.
Inside the station, there’s an atmosphere of quiet excitement as travelers from all walks of life come together—families embarking on vacations, commuters heading to meetings, and tourists eager to explore the Pacific Northwest. That blend of purpose and possibility is what gives Union Station its enduring charm.