Washington Union Station – Amtrak Station Guide
Washington Union Station is one of the most important rail hubs in the United States and the primary gateway for Amtrak services in the nation’s capital. Located just north of the U.S. Capitol, the station serves as a central connection point for Northeast Corridor, long-distance, and regional train routes.
Station Overview
- City: Washington, D.C.
- Location: Near U.S. Capitol Building
- Primary services: Amtrak, MARC Train, Virginia Railway Express (VRE)
- Role: Major Northeast Corridor hub
Washington Union Station plays a critical role on the
Northeast Corridor, linking the Northeast with the Midwest, Southeast, and Southern United States.
Amtrak Routes Serving Washington Union Station
Union Station is served by a wide range of Amtrak routes, including:
Popular Amtrak Destinations from Washington Union Station
- New York City
- Philadelphia
- Boston
- Chicago
- Atlanta
- Orlando and Miami
Station Facilities & Amenities
- Amtrak ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Large indoor waiting areas and seating
- Food court, restaurants, cafés, and retail stores
- Restrooms and accessibility services
- ATMs, shopping arcade, and luggage services
Union Station is known for its historic architecture and spacious concourse, making it one of the most comfortable major stations in the Amtrak network.
Local & Regional Transportation Connections
Passengers arriving at Washington Union Station can easily connect to:
- Washington Metro (Red Line)
- MARC commuter trains (Maryland)
- Virginia Railway Express (VRE)
- Local buses, taxis, and rideshare services
Nearby major Amtrak stations include:
Baggage & Passenger Services
- Carry-on baggage allowed on all Amtrak trains
- Checked baggage available on select long-distance routes
- Red Cap assistance available for passengers requiring help
Checked baggage availability depends on the route and destination. Always confirm baggage options while booking.
Travel Tips for Washington Union Station
- Arrive early during peak travel hours and holidays
- Monitor departure boards for track assignments
- Allow extra time for transfers between services
- Keep tickets and identification readily available
Nearby Landmarks & Attractions
- U.S. Capitol Building
- National Mall
- Smithsonian Museums
- Supreme Court of the United States
FAQs
Is Washington Union Station open 24 hours?
Access hours may vary by entrance and service, but the station generally remains accessible for ticketed passengers.
Is Union Station a major Amtrak hub?
Yes. It is one of Amtrak’s most important hubs, especially for Northeast Corridor and long-distance services.
Can I connect to commuter rail from here?
Yes. MARC and VRE commuter services operate directly from Union Station.
For more help planning your journey, visit:
Amtrak – Complete Guide
Note: Washington Union Station is a cornerstone of Amtrak’s national network and a key gateway for rail travel across the eastern United States.