Standing just blocks from the U.S. Capitol Building, Union Station serves as both a gateway to the nation’s capital and a destination in its own right. This beautifully restored Beaux Arts masterpiece blends its role as a major transportation hub with world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it one of Washington, DC’s most visited attractions. Whether you’re catching a train, exploring the city, or simply seeking a taste of American history, Union Station offers an iconic experience. So, where is Union Station in Washington DC and what are the nearest attractions and restaurants? It’s all covered below.
Where is Union Station?
Union Station is located in the northeastern part of downtown Washington, DC, just north of the Capitol Hill area. The grand structure sits at 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE, positioned strategically near several of the city’s most significant landmarks. The U.S. Capitol building is just a few blocks to the south, while the Supreme Court and Library of Congress are also within easy walking distance. The station serves as a gateway between downtown DC and the Capitol Hill neighborhood, with the NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue) district extending to the north and east. Its central location makes it a convenient hub for visitors, as it’s within walking distance of the National Mall and many of the Smithsonian museums, while also providing easy access to both the government district and various residential neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and H Street Corridor.
Union Station Highlights
The centerpiece of architect Daniel Burnham’s vision is the jaw-dropping Main Hall, also known as the “General Waiting Room,” which continues to dazzle visitors today with its magnificent scale, soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling, and ornate plasterwork. When trains were the main way Americans traveled, Union Station served hundreds of thousands of passengers. After a period of decline following the 1940s, the landmark was restored in the 1980s, combining its historic grandeur with new features to serve modern transportation needs. Architectural details to look out for when you visit include the coffered ceiling adorned with gold leaf and the massive arched windows that flood the space with natural light.
Shopping at Union Station
Union Station houses over 100 specialty shops and boutiques, creating one of Washington’s premier shopping destinations. The multi-level retail experience ranges from well-known chains like Uniqlo and Warby Parker to unique local businesses, all nestled within the station’s historic architecture.
The shopping experience blossoms during the holidays when seasonal markets and special events transform the station into a festive community gathering place. Union Station’s holiday decorations and special shopping events draw visitors from across the city and beyond.
For more shopping nearby, the mall Gallery Place is a six-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Union Station.
Dining Around Union Station
Union Station’s on-site food and beverage scene caters to every palate and schedule, from quick grab-and-go options for busy travelers to sit-down restaurants.
Quick service options at the station include Raising Cane’s, Cava, Chipotle, and Chopt, along with excellent coffee from Blue Bottle Coffee and fresh smoothies from Jamba Juice. For breakfast on the go, Bullfrog Bagels offers delicious breakfast sandwiches.
If you’re happy to venture a little further beyond Union Station, your dining choices open up even more. For those seeking a taste of Washington’s political dining scene, The Monocle stands out as a historic establishment. Established in 1960, it’s the closest restaurant to the Capitol building, Senate, and Union Station, located just steps from the station’s east entrance.
A five-minute drive or 12-minute walk away from Union Station, you’ll find Arlo Washington DC, and its signature restaurant Arrels. This stylish, modern restaurant specializes in Spanish dishes and open-fire cooking, serving up oysters, patata bravas, paellas, and delicious wood-fired meats. Arrels is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, and guests can also visit the bar for a cocktail and small bite. To try something a little different, head to the hotel’s rooftop for ART DC, where the same chef from Arrels, Pepe Moncayo, blends Japanese and Pan Asian flavors on the seasonal menu.
Nearby Landmarks and Attractions
Union Station’s prime location makes it the perfect starting point for exploring Washington’s most significant landmarks and attractions.
U.S. Capitol Building: A short walk from Union Station, the U.S. Capitol is open for public tours where visitors can witness the ornate ceiling of the Rotunda, Statuary Hall, and the Crypt. The Capitol Visitor Center shows educational films and houses exhibits featuring rare artifacts.
National Postal Museum: The National Postal Museum is just a short stroll away and offers fascinating exhibitions about the history of the postal service in the U.S. This Smithsonian Institution museum provides an unexpectedly engaging look at American communication history.
Supreme Court of the United States: Within easy walking distance, the Supreme Court building offers public tours and exhibitions about the American judicial system.
Library of Congress: The world’s largest library system is located nearby, with the stunning Jefferson Building offering guided tours of its magnificent architecture and rare book collections.
Capitol Hill Neighborhood: The broader Capitol Hill area surrounding Union Station features tree-lined streets with historic row houses, local cafes, and the vibrant Eastern Market, perfect for exploring Washington’s residential character.
The Union Market District: Less than a mile from Union Station, this trendy area has become one of DC’s hubs for artisanal food vendors, craft breweries, and unique shopping experiences.
Planning Your Visit
Location: 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002
Getting There: Union Station is easily accessible via Metro’s Red Line, multiple bus routes, taxi, and rideshare services. The station also offers parking facilities for those driving to the area.
Hours: The main areas of Union Station are open daily. Most retail establishments operate from morning through evening, while restaurants may offer extended hours.
Special Events: Throughout the year, Union Station hosts special events, seasonal celebrations, and temporary exhibitions. Check the official website for current offerings and special programming.
A Living Monument
Union Station is one of the rate buildings that successfully bridges past and present, allowing today’s travelers to experience the grandeur of early 20th-century rail travel while enjoying modern amenities.From the moment you enter the magnificent Main Hall, you’re transported back to an era when train travel represented the height of sophistication and style. Yet the bustling shops, diverse dining options, and efficient transportation connections remind you that this is very much a living, working part of modern Washington.
Whether you’re using Union Station as your gateway to exploring the nation’s capital, meeting friends for dinner, shopping for gifts, or simply marveling at one of America’s great architectural achievements, this remarkable building offers experiences that capture the essence of what makes Washington, DC such a compelling destination. Union Station is more than just a transportation hub, but a monument to American ambition, craftsmanship, and the enduring power of thoughtful design to bring people together.
