Book Amtrak Train

There’s a unique charm to train travel – a slower pace, a chance to see the landscape unfold, and a connection to a bygone era of grand journeys. For those looking to experience this from Arkansas’s capital, Little Rock, Amtrak offers a direct link to major cities across the Midwest and Texas.

If you’re planning a trip to or from Little Rock by rail, this comprehensive guide will give you everything you need to know about its historic Amtrak station, the routes it serves, and key distances to help you plan your adventure.

The Historic Little Rock Union Station (LIT)

Little Rock’s Amtrak station isn’t just a stop; it’s a destination in itself. Housed in the magnificent Union Station, a structure rich with history and architectural grandeur, it offers a distinct sense of arrival and departure.

• Address: 1400 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201
• Built: 1907, originally for the Missouri Pacific Railroad.
• Architecture: A stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture, featuring red brick, ornamental stone, and majestic arches. It underwent a significant renovation in the late 20th century to restore much of its original splendor, and today serves as both an Amtrak station and office space.

Station Amenities & Services:

While historic and beautiful, it’s important to note that Little Rock is a smaller, unstaffed station for most hours of the day.

• Waiting Area: A comfortable, but generally unstaffed, waiting area is available.
• Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available for passengers.
• Ticketing: There is no ticket office or Quik-Trak machine at this station. All tickets must be purchased online via Amtrak.com, through the Amtrak app, or by phone prior to your arrival.
• Baggage Services: No checked baggage service is available. Passengers must be able to carry on all their luggage.
• Food & Drink: No food or beverage services are available at the station. It’s highly recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks for your journey.
• Accessibility: The station is fully accessible for passengers with disabilities, including platforms and waiting areas.
• Parking: Short-term and long-term parking are available for a fee.
• Staffing: Amtrak staff or station ambassadors are typically only present around scheduled train arrival and departure times.

The Texas Eagle: Little Rock’s Lifeline to the Rails

Little Rock is served exclusively by the Texas Eagle train. This iconic route offers daily service between Chicago and San Antonio, making Little Rock a convenient intermediate stop connecting the Midwest with the heart of Texas.

From San Antonio, passengers can connect to the Sunset Limited to continue their journey westward to Los Angeles, or eastward to New Orleans.

Key Destinations and Approximate Travel Times from Little Rock

Planning your journey requires understanding how long you’ll be on the train. Here are approximate travel times to some of the most popular destinations on the Texas Eagle route:

• St. Louis, MO:
  • Approx. Travel Time: 7 – 8 hours
  • Why Visit: Home of the iconic Gateway Arch, vibrant Soulard Farmers Market, and world-class museums.
• Chicago, IL:
  • Approx. Travel Time: 12 – 13.5 hours
  • Why Visit: A major hub offering stunning architecture, deep-dish pizza, renowned museums, and endless entertainment options. From Chicago, you can connect to virtually any Amtrak route across the country.
• Dallas, TX:
  • Approx. Travel Time: 4 – 5 hours
  • Why Visit: A bustling city known for its vibrant arts district, upscale shopping, and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.
• Fort Worth, TX: (Just a short distance past Dallas)
  • Approx. Travel Time: 5 – 6 hours
  • Why Visit: Experience the true Wild West at the historic Stockyards National Historic District, with its daily cattle drives and rodeo.
• Austin, TX:
  • Approx. Travel Time: 7 – 8 hours
  • Why Visit: The “Live Music Capital of the World,” known for its eclectic culture, food trucks, and beautiful outdoor spaces.
• San Antonio, TX:
  • Approx. Travel Time: 9 – 10 hours
  • Why Visit: Rich in history with The Alamo, the picturesque Riverwalk, and a vibrant Spanish colonial heritage. This is the southern terminus of the Texas Eagle.
• Los Angeles, CA (via connection in San Antonio):
  • Approx. Travel Time: 36 – 40 hours (including transfer time)
  • Why Visit: The entertainment capital, with beaches, Hollywood glamour, and diverse cultural attractions. This is a multi-day journey for the ultimate cross-country train experience.

Note: All travel times are approximate and can vary due to factors like track conditions, operational delays, and scheduled stops.

Connecting to Airports from Little Rock Union Station

While the beauty of train travel is often about the journey itself, sometimes you need to combine modes of transport.

• Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT):
  • Distance from Station: Approximately 5-6 miles
  • Approx. Travel Time: 15-20 minutes by car
  • Transportation Options: Taxis and rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available from both the Amtrak station and the airport. Public bus service is available but may require transfers and is less direct.

It’s important to factor in sufficient transfer time between your train and flight, especially given that train schedules can sometimes experience delays.

Tips for a Smooth Journey from Little Rock

1. Book in Advance: Especially for popular dates or sleeper cars, book your tickets well ahead of time.
2. Arrive Early: Although there’s no official check-in, arriving 30 minutes before departure gives you time to find parking and get comfortable.
3. Pack Smart: Remember, no checked baggage at LIT. Pack only what you can comfortably carry onto the train.
4. Bring Snacks & Entertainment: With no services at the station, and limited dining car options on the train, pack your favorite snacks, drinks, and a good book or downloaded movies for your journey.
5. Stay Informed: Download the Amtrak app to track your train’s status in real-time.

Little Rock’s Amtrak Union Station offers a unique gateway to explore the country by rail. Whether you’re heading north to the bustling cities of the Midwest or south to the vibrant culture of Texas, embarking on a train journey from LIT is an experience that promises relaxation, scenic views, and a touch of nostalgia. All aboard!