The arrival of the first trains in Chicago in the mid-1800s opened up a world of travel in the state of Illinois. Over time, more rails were built around the state and the need for larger stations grew. In 1925, four railroad companies joined together in union to build the Chicago Union Station, an iconic landmark in the city. This historic train station in Illinois is ornate, stunning, and there’s no other one like it in the state.
The iconic Chicago Union Station first opened in May 1925. The idea for it first came from architect Daniel Burnham and it was ultimately constructed by the architectural firm Graham, Anderson, Probst, and White.
stevegeer/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
The exterior’s gorgeous limestone was quarried in the neighboring state of Indiana. Once passengers enter the doors from the outside, they are brought into an ornate and jaw-dropping interior.
RudyBalasko/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
The Beaux-Arts-style Great Hall featuring a 110-foot-tall atrium and barrel-vaulted skylights is something of an architectural marvel. This alone will make you understand why the Chicago Union Station is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the country.
RudyBalasko/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Do you recognize this stairway? These marble entry steps, which were replaced in 2015, were made famous in a scene in the film “The Untouchables.”
Lisa-Blue/ E+ via Getty Images
Owned by Amtrak, the Chicago Union Station is the third-busiest train station in the country. It’s a hub to both Amtrak and the Metra Commuter Rail and there are transfer options for the “L” Trains, buses, Greyhound, taxis, and rideshares.
Emilie1980/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Chicago Union Station does offer a bit more than just travel. You will also find several dining and shopping options and areas of the station may be booked for events.
matejphoto/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Union Station is a hub of activity, of people coming and going, commuting to and from work or visiting the city. If you find yourself in the flurry of activity here, try and take a few moments to appreciate the grandeur that is the Chicago Union Station.
Lisa-Blue/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
stevegeer/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
RudyBalasko/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
RudyBalasko/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Lisa-Blue/ E+ via Getty Images
Emilie1980/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
matejphoto/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Lisa-Blue/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Whether you live in the state or just visiting, a trip to this historic train station in Illinois is a must. To learn more about the Chicago Union Station, visit the website.
If you love trains, check out these scenic train rides you can take in Illinois.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
