Union Station: A Historic Gateway of Washington, D.C.
Discover the splendor of Union Station in Washington, D.C. – a historic train station blending architecture, shopping, and dining experiences.
Union Station, a marvel of Beaux-Arts architecture, stands as one of Washington, D.C.'s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1907, it serves not only as a major transportation hub but also as a vibrant center for shopping and dining. Visitors are immediately captivated by the grand hall, adorned with soaring ceilings, intricate mosaics, and beautiful chandeliers that evoke the grandeur of a bygone era. The station is home to over 130 shops and restaurants, ranging from upscale dining to quick bites, ensuring that there’s something for every taste and preference. As a transportation nexus, Union Station connects various modes of travel, including Amtrak, MARC, and VRE trains, as well as Metro services. This makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the nation's capital. Beyond its practical functions, Union Station is steeped in history, featuring exhibits and displays that recount its storied past. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that highlight its architectural significance and historical context, allowing them to appreciate the station beyond just a transit point. For those looking to unwind, the station hosts a variety of events and seasonal activities, from holiday markets to live performances. Its central location makes it easy to access nearby attractions, including the U.S. Capitol and the National Mall. Whether you are waiting for a train or simply exploring, Union Station is a vibrant microcosm of D.C.'s rich culture, offering a unique blend of history, commerce, and community engagement.
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours for a more leisurely experience and fewer crowds.
- Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour to learn about the station's rich history.
- Check the schedule for special events or seasonal markets that often take place in the station.
- Explore the dining options; some restaurants offer unique local dishes worth trying.
- Use Union Station as a starting point for visits to nearby attractions like the Capitol and museums.
A brief summary to Union Station
- 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, Near Northeast, District of Columbia, 20002, US
- +1202-289-1908
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from downtown Annapolis, head towards Main Street and walk northeast until you reach the intersection with West Street. Turn left onto West Street and continue walking until you reach the Naval Academy Bridge. Cross the bridge, which will lead you to Route 50. Follow the signs for Route 50 towards Washington, DC. Once you reach the exit for I-97 North, take it and follow the signs to merge onto I-97. Continue on I-97 until it merges into US-50 West towards Washington. Stay on US-50 for about 30 minutes until you reach the district. When you come to the exit for New York Ave NE, take that exit and follow the signs towards Union Station.
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Public Transportation (Bus and Metro)
From the center of Annapolis, walk to the nearest bus stop for the Anne Arundel County Transit (AACT) service. Take the Route 14 bus towards the Annapolis Mall. Once at the mall, transfer to the Washington Metrobus (X1, X2, or X3) that heads towards Washington, DC. Get off at the stop nearest to the Metro Center station. From there, transfer to the Red Line Metro towards Glenmont and ride until you reach Union Station.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a taxi or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your current location in Annapolis to Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002. The driver will take you directly to the station, which typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Union Station
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Washington Union Station
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Smithsonian's National Postal Museum
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Columbus Circle
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National Guard Memorial Museum
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The Dubliner Restaurant
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Upper Senate Park
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Summerhouse
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Supreme Court of the United States
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DC Design Tours
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Secret Food Tours Washington D.C.
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United States Capitol
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The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
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National Building Museum
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National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
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Folger Shakespeare Library
Landmarks nearby to Union Station
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4 Columbus Circle Northeast
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National Japanese American Memorial
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Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument
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Taft Memorial Carillon
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East Capitol St NE & First St NE
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US Capitol Grounds
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Peace Monument
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E. Barrett Prettyman United States Court House
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Ulysses S. Grant Memorial
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Garfield Memorial
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Chinatown Arch
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Calvary Baptist Church
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American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
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Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial
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Federal Bureau of Investigation Headquarters