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Los Angeles Union Station (LAUS) isn’t just a place to catch a train; it’s a historical landmark, an architectural masterpiece, and the bustling heart of Southern California’s transportation network. For Amtrak travelers, it’s the grand gateway to adventures spanning the West Coast and beyond.

Whether you’re a seasoned rail enthusiast or planning your very first train journey, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Amtrak at LA Union Station, including how to navigate the station and the distances to key cities and airports.

Los Angeles Union Station: A Grand Dame of Travel

Opened in 1939, LA Union Station is often called the “Last of the Great American Train Stations.” Its stunning Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture makes it a destination in itself. Beyond its beauty, it’s a vital multi-modal hub, serving Amtrak, Metrolink commuter rail, Metro Rail subway and light rail lines, and numerous bus services. This means seamless connections are a hallmark of travel here.

Your Amtrak Gateway: Trains Departing from LAUS

Amtrak offers several iconic routes from Los Angeles Union Station, connecting passengers to a vast network across the country.

1. Pacific Surfliner: This is by far the most frequent and popular service from LAUS. Running multiple times a day, it offers a scenic coastal journey.
   • Northbound: To Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and points in between.
   • Southbound: To Anaheim, San Juan Capistrano, Solana Beach, and San Diego.
2. Coast Starlight: Often called “America’s Most Beautiful Train Ride,” the Coast Starlight offers a breathtaking journey along the Pacific Coast and through mountain ranges.
   • Northbound: To Oakland (for San Francisco connections), Sacramento, Portland, and Seattle.
3. Southwest Chief: Tracing historic routes, the Southwest Chief takes you through deserts, mountains, and prairies.
   • Eastbound: To Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Kansas City, and Chicago.
4. Sunset Limited: Amtrak’s longest continuous route, the Sunset Limited takes you through the American South.
   • Eastbound: To Tucson, El Paso, San Antonio, Houston, and New Orleans.

Navigating Los Angeles Union Station

LAUS is designed for easy navigation, but its size can be initially daunting.

• Arrival by Public Transit: This is often the easiest way to reach LAUS due to its central location.
  • Metro Rail: The B (Red), D (Purple), A (Blue/Expo), and L (Gold) Lines all stop directly at Union Station (underground).
  • Metrolink: All seven Metrolink commuter rail lines converge at Union Station.
  • Buses: Numerous Metro and other local bus lines stop at the Patsaouras Transit Plaza, just east of the main terminal.
• Arrival by Car:
  • Parking: A large, paid parking structure is available on the east side of the station, accessible from Vignes Street. Daily rates apply.
  • Ride-Share/Taxis: Dedicated pick-up/drop-off zones are clearly marked outside the main entrance and near the Patsaouras Transit Plaza.
• Inside the Station:
  • Ticketing: Amtrak ticket counters and self-service kiosks are located in the main ticketing hall.
  • Waiting Areas: Comfortable public waiting areas are available. First-class and sleeper car passengers have access to the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge.
  • Platforms: Most Amtrak trains depart from tracks 10-12, accessible via an underground tunnel from the main concourse. Follow the clear signage.
• Amenities: Food options range from quick bites at grab-and-go shops to sit-down dining. Restrooms are available throughout, and free Wi-Fi is generally accessible in public areas.

Key Distances & Travel Times from LA Union Station

Here’s a breakdown of approximate travel times and distances to popular Amtrak destinations and connecting airports.

Major Amtrak Destinations (by Train)

• San Diego (Santa Fe Depot):
  • Distance: ~125 miles
  • Travel Time: ~2 hours 45 minutes – 3 hours (Pacific Surfliner)
• Santa Barbara (SBA):
  • Distance: ~95 miles
  • Travel Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes (Pacific Surfliner)
• San Luis Obispo (SLO):
  • Distance: ~225 miles
  • Travel Time: ~5 hours 30 minutes (Pacific Surfliner)
• Oakland (OAC) / San Francisco (SFC):
  • Distance: ~380 miles (to Oakland)
  • Travel Time: ~11-12 hours (Coast Starlight to Oakland, then dedicated Amtrak Thruway Bus to San Francisco. Also possible via Surfliner + Thruway Bus from Bakersfield or Santa Barbara.)
• Seattle (SEA):
  • Distance: ~1100 miles
  • Travel Time: ~32-35 hours (Coast Starlight)
• Chicago (CHI):
  • Distance: ~2250 miles
  • Travel Time: ~43-45 hours (Southwest Chief)
• New Orleans (NOL):
  • Distance: ~2000 miles
  • Travel Time: ~48-50 hours (Sunset Limited)

Note: Train travel times are estimates and can vary due to operational factors and scheduled stops.

Connecting to Major Airports (by Ground Transportation)

LA Union Station offers excellent connections to local and regional airports.

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX):
  • Distance: ~18 miles
  • Travel Time: ~45-90 minutes (highly dependent on traffic and method)
  • Best Options:
    • LAX FlyAway Bus: Direct, non-stop service from Union Station to LAX terminals. Leaves roughly every 30 minutes. The most convenient option.
    • Metro: Take the Metro B (Red) or D (Purple) Line to 7th Street/Metro Center, then transfer to the Metro A (Blue) or C (Green) Line, then connect to the free LAX Airport Shuttles (A/G lines to Aviation/LAX station). This method is longer but budget-friendly. Future: The LAX Automated People Mover will provide direct rail access.
    • Rideshare/Taxi: Available, but subject to LA traffic, which can be severe.
• Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR):
  • Distance: ~15 miles
  • Travel Time: ~30-60 minutes
  • Best Options:
    • Metrolink/Amtrak: Take a northbound Metrolink or Pacific Surfliner train one stop directly to the Burbank Airport-South Station (approx. 15-20 minutes train ride), then a short walk or free shuttle to the terminal. This is often the quickest connection.
    • Metro/Bus: Take the Metro B (Red) Line to North Hollywood Station, then transfer to a local bus or rideshare.
• Long Beach Airport (LGB):
  • Distance: ~25 miles
  • Travel Time: ~60-90 minutes
  • Best Options:
    • Metro: Take the Metro A (Blue) Line south towards Long Beach, then transfer to a local bus or rideshare from downtown Long Beach.
    • Rideshare/Taxi: Available, but consider traffic.
• Ontario International Airport (ONT):
  • Distance: ~40 miles
  • Travel Time: ~75-120 minutes
  • Best Options:
    • Metrolink: Take an eastbound Metrolink train (e.g., San Bernardino Line) to Rancho Cucamonga or an adjacent station, then transfer to an Omnitrans bus or rideshare for the final leg to ONT.
    • Rideshare/Taxi: This can be expensive and is heavily impacted by freeway traffic.

Note: Ground travel times are highly variable and dependent on traffic conditions in Los Angeles.

Tips for a Smooth Journey from LAUS

• Arrive Early: Especially if you have luggage or need to pick up tickets. Union Station is beautiful, so allow time to appreciate it!
• Check Luggage Policy: Amtrak has specific guidelines for carry-on and checked baggage. Consider checking larger bags for convenience.
• Download the Amtrak App: It’s great for checking train status, e-tickets, and station information.
• Bring Snacks & Drinks: While Amtrak trains have dining cars or snack bars, having your own provisions is always a good idea.
• Stay Connected: Long-distance trains may have Wi-Fi, but service can be spotty. Download movies, books, or podcasts in advance.
• Enjoy the Scenery: That’s one of the best parts about train travel!

Los Angeles Union Station offers a unique and often relaxing way to explore California and the rest of the country. From its historic grandeur to its efficient connections, it truly is a complete guide to starting your next great adventure by rail. All aboard!