Union Station: Icon of a Great Age

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    Union Station's Grand Staircase. Photo by StevieD Photography

Take in the elaborate details of this historic landmark, including the stunning Great Hall, restored to its original 1925 glory and a festive Christmas tree during the month of December to add holiday cheer.
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    Union Station's Grand Staircase. Photo by StevieD Photography

Union Station is one of the last grand train stations still operating in the U.S. and the only one in Chicago, serving both Amtrak and Metra commuter rail.

Duration
1 hour
Site Type
Buildings
Location
Downtown
Architects and Styles
Meet

500 W. Jackson Blvd. between Canal and Clinton

Union Station is one of the great spaces in Chicago you must experience! Learn about the station’s history and design, while discovering the important role railroads played in the city’s development. Find out how this building plays a role in Chicago’s current hot real estate market of the West Loop.

Know before you go:
  • Road construction and bus reroutes in the area may cause delays in getting to the meeting location. Please plan for extra travel time.
Notes:
  • Many tours sell out. To guarantee your space advance reservations are strongly recommended.
  • Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours.
  • Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.

Tour reviews

    • Ornate arched ceiling with squares carved into it above a large window framed by columns and lit with a red lightOrnate arched ceiling with squares carved into it above a large window framed by columns and lit with a red light
      Railroads played such an important role in the development of Chicago as a transportation center and city overall, for locals and visitors alike. We are very lucky to still have this gorgeous example of a building type that most US cities have lost over the years. For many Chicago-area commuters the Great Hall is often a space that is ignored but needs to be seen, especially since the most recent renovation in 2021.
      Joan JohnsCAC Docent
  • Exterior shot of Union station featuring the wooden doors surrounded by ornate green walls on the left and large white columns to the right

    Union Station exterior. Photo by Stephanie Barto

  • Photo of a wooden bench with side carvings inside union station

    Interior photo of bench. Photo by StevieD Photography

  • Photo of a docent and tour goer. The docwent is pointing at a golden light post and there are columns and a valuted ceiling in the background.

    Great Hall interor. Photo by StevieD Photography

  • Photo of an American flag hanging in the Great Hall of Union Station with an arched ceiling above

    Great Hall flag. Photo by StevieD Photography

  • Photo of a golden light post inside of Union Station with detailed ornamentation

    Great Hall torchiere. Photo by StevieD Photography

FAQ

  • Essential walking tours depart from the center at 111 East Wacker; they are free for all CAC members. Premier walking tours depart from other locations across Chicago, including neighborhood tours. Premier tours are discounted for individual, dual and family memberships and free for Deco level and above.

  • The CAC welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its offerings feel safe and accessible to everyone. Learn more about accessibility options.

  • Many of our tours depart from the CAC at 111 E. Wacker. Your ticket (regular or print-at-home) will indicate the departure location. If you have any questions about your tour’s meeting place, give us a call at 312.922.TOUR (8687).

    For tours that don’t begin at the CAC, please consult the individual tour webpage, or call 312.922.TOUR (8687) for details on the meeting location.

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Buildings on This Tour

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Group & Private Tours

CAC offers discounted rates and customized options for groups and tour operators. Learn about options here.

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Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

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