Nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, Alexandria Union Station stands as a testament to the city's rich history and its pivotal role in America's rail network. Officially known as Alexandria Union Station, this historic depot has been serving travelers since 1905, offering a blend of classic architecture, modern amenities, and seamless connections to Washington, D.C., and beyond. 🏛️ A Glimpse into History The Alexandria Union Station opened its doors on September 15, 1905, under the design influence of the City Beautiful movement. Constructed in the Federal Revival style, the station was a collaborative effort between the Southern Railway and the Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Potomac Railroad. Unlike many utilitarian train stations of its time, Alexandria Union Station was envisioned as an architectural gem—a municipal gateway that reflected the city's aspirations and civic pride. Over the decades, the station has undergone several renovations, notably in 1982 and the mid-1990s, to preserve its historic charm while accommodating modern transportation needs. In 2001, the City of Alexandria assumed ownership of the station, ensuring its continued operation and preservation. 🚉 Station Layout and Services Located at 110 Callahan Drive, Alexandria Union Station is strategically positioned in Old Town, offering easy access to a myriad of local attractions, dining options, and shopping venues. The station is directly adjacent to the King Street–Old Town Metro station, facilitating seamless transfers between Amtrak, Metro, and local bus services. This intermodal connectivity underscores the station's role as a transportation hub in the region. Key Features: Platforms: The station boasts a side platform and an island platform, accommodating multiple tracks and ensuring efficient boarding processes. Accessibility: The station is fully accessible, featuring ramps and a wheelchair lift to assist passengers with mobility challenges. Waiting Areas: Comfortable seating areas are available for passengers to relax before their journeys. Restrooms and Ticketing: The station is equipped with restrooms and a staffed ticketing office to assist travelers with their needs. Parking: Limited parking is available at the station, with approximately 30 public spaces. Parking costs $2.50 per hour or $15 per day. Overnight parking is not permitted. 🚆 Amtrak and VRE Services Alexandria Union Station serves as a vital stop for several Amtrak routes, including the Northeast Regional, Crescent, Palmetto, Cardinal, Carolinian, and Silver Meteor. These services connect passengers to major cities along the East Coast, from Boston to Miami. Notably, the station is the second-busiest Amtrak station in the Southeastern United States, with over 327,000 riders in 2023. In addition to Amtrak services, the station is also served by the Virginia Railway Express (VRE), providing commuter rail options for travelers heading to Washington, D.C. This dual-service setup enhances the station's role as a key transit point in the region. 🏙️ Connecting to the City Beyond its role as a transportation hub, Alexandria Union Station offers easy access to the vibrant Old Town district. Just a short walk from the station, visitors can explore cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and a diverse array of restaurants. The station's proximity to King Street–Old Town Metro station further enhances its connectivity to other parts of the city and the broader Washington metropolitan area. 🕰️ Visiting Alexandria Union Station Address: 110 Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA 22301 Hours of Operation: The station's waiting room is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. Contact Information: For Amtrak services, call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245). For VRE services, visit vre.org . 🌟 Final Thoughts [alexandria amtrak station](https://amtraktrainstations.com/stations/alexandria-amtrak-station/) you're embarking on a cross-country journey or exploring the historic streets of Alexandria, the Alexandria Union Station offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. Its rich history, strategic location, and comprehensive services make it a standout destination for travelers seeking both adventure and a glimpse into America's rail heritage.