If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Find Divvy locations and rates. I will check their website out more. This classic Chicago landmark opened in 1925 as a replacement for an 1881 train station. Multiple ziplines, climbing walls, a mountain bike course, hiking trails and more await you at The Forge: Lemont Quarries, a 300-acre recreation area stocked with just about every outdoor activity. Jill is currently writing the first of 12 train travel guides: Ride the Southwest Chief. Our Chicagoeditorial team is constantly updating and reviewing the best attractions, activities and venues across the city, so that you're always in the know, with the best of Chicagoat your fingertips. The second floor was currently roped off but the main floor was large and the seating comfortable with numerous electronic outlets. Daily activities, such as the opportunity to meet a zoo animal and ape training sessions, teach children about the zoo's many residents. Hi. It's well worth a trip to Chicago. Not knowing where to go or what to see, instead of exploring the area, I filled the layover working on my laptop while eating at the food court, then sat on an uncomfortable wood bench in the Grand Hall for a few hours, waiting for my next train. I am traveling from Chicago to NY on the Lake Shore LTD and I've never used Amtrak before (i'm coming from New Zealand). Whetheryou're waiting on a train or passing through the building,you can't miss Union Station's crown jewel, the Great Hall. Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, gives children and their families the opportunity to take an elevator to the tower's 103rd floor and experience a bird's-eye view of the city. We found 1,458 things to do for you near Union Station Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower 17,713 Reviews 233 S Wacker Drive entrance on Jackson Blvd (south side of building), Chicago, IL 60606-7147 7 minutes from Union Station Experiences from 669 See 36 Experiences Chicago Riverwalk 3,055 Reviews Chicago, IL 60601 7 minutes from Union Station The tunnel from Union Station to Northwestern Station. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. As for chow, if you are not in a Pizza or Diner mood, Al's Beef just around the corner on Adams tosses out an excellent Italian Beef Sandwich. Alternatively, you may use, Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown / Magnificent Mile, InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, an IHG Hotel, Best Western Chicago Downtown-River North, http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g1-i12483-Train_Travel.html. The artwork was eye pleasing and there are windows to look out to the Great Hall. 93% of travelers recommend this experience. The Shedd Aquarium puts kids face-to-face with more than 32,000 animals. There is also the free trolley to some of the shopping areas such as State Street and Navy Pier. 91% of travelers recommend this experience. Chicago Union Station is the size of nearly 10 city blocks, is the third-busiest rail terminal in the United States, and is Amtraks overall fourth busiest station, serving about 140,000 passengers on an average weekday. The last entry is 30 minutes prior to closing. We found 1,736 things to do for you near Union Station Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower 17,721 Reviews 233 S Wacker Drive entrance on Jackson Blvd (south side of building), Chicago, IL 60606-7147 5 minutes from Union Station Experiences from $8 See 38 Experiences Chicago Riverwalk 3,057 Reviews Chicago, IL 60601 5 minutes from Union Station That first layover wasnt my proudest moment as a solo traveler. The station used to be a grungy zoo but over the past few years they have made some updates. If it were me, being the kind of person that doesn't like to spend a lot of money and enjoys walking, I would head east towards (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You may have to clomb narrow stairs to board the train. We did walk it once because we were dropped off at the wrong station. Our train arrives at 9am and cant check into the hotel until afternoon. Maybe it was a quiet weekend or time of day but very little people were walking through or sitting on any of the benches. Check with your hotel to see if they will hold your luggage until check-in. Kids' Activities Near Libertyville, Illinois. Look for the blue awning marking the stairway entrance. December can be miserable in Chicago--really miserable. Go to the Concourse level where youll find the baggage check. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. They have free snacks, TV's, and comfy chairs. Enjoy an immersive wine experience at City Winery. Passengers looking to grab a bite before taking off can expect airport-like fare including Nuts on Clark, Gold Coast Dogs, Robinson's No. Chicago, Illinois 60606. These are the best experiences near Union Station: These places are best for bars & clubs near Union Station: Which are the best experiences near Union Station? Based in Florida, Mandi Titus has been writing since 2002. Millennium Park is an award-winning center for art, music, architecture, and landscape design. (Photo: Tim Boyle/Getty Images News/Getty Images ), Zoos & Aquariums Near Champaign, Illinois, Shedd Aquarium: Plan a Visit -- Hours and Calendar, Famous Tourist Attractions in the State of Illinois, Rock Climbing Walls for Kids in Central Illinois, Kids' Attractions Near Union Station, Chicago, Illinois, Privacy Notice/Your California Privacy Rights. Users simply pick up a bike from a self-service docking station and return it to a station near their destination. (Photo: Tim Boyle/Getty Images News/Getty Images ). Open since 1925, Union Station remains Chicago's intercity rail terminal and the largest terminal for commuter trains. Do you need to book in advance to visit Union Station? I use it always. Just grab a RTA Visitior Transit Map and its all at your finger tips. But as folks have stated there are great dining options only a few block away-take advantage of one of them-bundle up and enjoy! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g1-i12483-Train_Travel.html, This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. =). We always travel business class, so there is a nice lounge to take advantage of with free snacks and soft drinks. In any case, the interior is really a work of art, the big halls are especially beautiful and try to check out the smaller halls. Hop on board the Untouchable Tours Gangster Bus for the original Chicago gangster tour. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. more, Points of Interest & Landmarks Architectural Buildings. =) Report inappropriate content 1-10 of 12 replies Sorted by 1 2 Dave148 Illinois Destination Expert Hi, just want to check if the luggage storage is still available currently. There is Metra train service from Union Station to "O'Hare Transfer" but it's (1) weekday only, (2) fairly infrequent, and (3) the "transfer" in the name means that you're a shuttle bus and airport tram . This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. i need to know is there any place some one can wait if there lay over is after 12am? Announcement were regularly made for boarding trains and when ours was called, everyone socially distanced in the hallway near the front and were led by an employee to our train. Grab some Giordino's Pizza and you won't need to eat on the train for a week! 9 Things To Do On A Layover At Chicago's Union Station =). So callous and unapologetic in completely ruining part of our Christmas experience. The Gage opens at 10. There are cool boat tours up and down the Chicago River. Absolutely beautiful architectural masterpiece! It was late only 12 minutes from La Crosse and making it on time to Union Station, Chicago. 2020 USATODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc. If you are looking for a good place for a sit down dinner. I'd really appreciate your help :). It was beautiful. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. Also, we will be storing our luggage in a locker during the layover Just FYI, when I checked on the Sears Tower last summer for my family, it was pretty expensive. Dave148: We were thinking of breakfast. 555 ratings. One of the most beautiful stations in the United Stations, it opened in 1925 next to the Chicago Loop. I wasn't the only one there taking it all in. Is this where you should park for an eleven day Amtrak trip? The Lincoln Park Zoo offers free daily admission to all visitors. They need real working security at the union station I find many unmasked trouble makers also homeless asking for money in the mornings you have crack heads Asking for money. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. The attraction is open March to September from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and October to February from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The main attraction Whether you're waiting on a train or passing through. If you are really into architecture, and Chicago is world famous for its, I would recommend perusing this site for all kinds of tours and other info. We who live in Chicago wouldn't dream of calling it Willisor Willie. I live in Chicago - Sears Tower, Greek Town for food are great ideas! $16.77 $12.00. I whiteness employees at the McDonalds twice a year giving these workers a hard time. The Chicago Riverwalk runs along historic Wacker Drive from Lake Michigan west to Lake Street, with access at street level from each major intersection. Complete Station Map | Chicago Union Station You can do more than merely catch a train at and near Chicago Union Station, such as: . The station is located a short walk from Downtown Chicago and several famous attractions, such as The Loop and Art Institute of Chicago Chicago Riverwalk: at an 8-minute drive from the Union Station, Chicago Riverwalk is the perfect place to make the most of your vacation. Union Station. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41531863', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Chicago: It will be on a Saturday - mid morning to early afternoon. Interested in train travel? There's a trip planner tool on the homepage of - http://www.transitchicago.com/, http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g35805-i32-k5480757-Union_Station_LAYOVER_Help_for_Amtrak_Trip-Chicago_Illinois.html. Get the Divvy app: Android and iOS. The Art Institute of Chicago 111 S. Michigan Avenue, ~8-minute drive from Union Station Founded in 1879, the Art Institute is one of the oldest art museums in the U.S. and boasts the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art outside the Louvre. After a remodel and renaming in 1967, Portillos now has 17 Chicago locations. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. It's less than half a mile from Union Station. 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Great breakfasts! The station is located at 225 S Canal St and the west side of the Chicago River between Adams Street and West Jackson Boulevard very close to the city center and just next to the Chicago Greyhound Bus station. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions. What else is there to do near Union Station? We were here to take the amtrak Texas Eagle for first time but this building is worth a visit either way. If you have a lengthy layover and a love of food, this is the perfect Union Station layover activity for you. Step foot near Union Station during rush hour, and you'll witness how many Chicagoans depend on Metra and Amtrak trains to get them in and out of the city. People come from all over the world to take the train from Union Station. Dirty, dark & creepy. Chicago is an ideal city for a family vacation, featuring many attractions for young visitors to enjoy in all types of weather. Union Station is one of the very best things to do in Chicago More adventurous foodies will want to pad their schedules with time to explore the surrounding neighborhood for light bites and boozy drinks. Overall a nice place to visit or spend some extra time before or after your Amtrak or Metra train, the L or bus ride. We found 1,458 things to do for you near Union Station Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower 17,712 Reviews 233 S Wacker Drive entrance on Jackson Blvd (south side of building), Chicago, IL 60606-7147 7 minutes from Union Station Experiences from 439 See 35 Experiences Chicago Riverwalk 3,055 Reviews Chicago, IL 60601 7 minutes from Union Station ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41533587', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Millennium Park and stroll around the park. Sears sold it years ago and it has been the "Willis Tower" for quite some time. The facility cost $75 million dollars to build - more than $1 . 94% of travelers recommend this experience. Kids' Attractions Near Union Station, Chicago, Illinois If you like art, you can visit the Chicago Art Museum and see among other. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The Neoclassic exterior is dominated by the colonnades. Chicago Union Station is the size of nearly 10 city blocks, is the third-busiest rail terminal in the United States, and is Amtrak's overall fourth busiest station, serving about 140,000 passengers on an average weekday. Union Station: Things to See & Do | Colorado.com ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41530204', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Wendella River/Lake tour. We went by Coach ride and were amazed at the leg room and comfortable atmosphere on the train. The station is huge and has many gorgeous areas. Grab a seat at the bar and order the "Fire-Bird" chicken sandwich, which is stacked with . Where in Union Station do I catch the Amtrak to Princeton, IL? By the way Merlot, Since you are taking the Southwest Chief you might want to go to the train travel forum and do a search there for info on your train. As I walked to the train tracks there was a little more activity but passage was restricted to ticket holders. The Best Luggage Storage in Chicago | $5.90 / Day | Bounce Shallow: Great reminder. Youll enjoy 360-degree views that span up to 50 miles and four states. You can check your bags through to your next destination (if you didnt do so on the first leg of your trip) or leave them for the day, freeing you up to check out the city without lugging bags around. I'm going to look in to that too. The staff there are super helpful and can show you where to take luggage. Child-sized attractions and interactive floor displays keep kids entertained before they arrive on the 103rd floor, and the tower's website provides a printable scavenger hunt to help kids find Chicago monuments and attractions from the tower's deck. Amentities? It's kind of a giant food court. Travel writer and publisher of Evolving Magazine, Jill Dutton caught the train travel bug when she spent three months in Europe with a Eurail pass. Oops, forgot to tell you that the trip is in late December. Once youre comfortable getting around the station, its time to check your bags for your day in Chicago. Taxis; Rideshare; Bike Share; Luggage storage Union Station $6 / day | Bag Storage & Lockers By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. After grabbing my luggage from the train, my first course of action was obvious: Follow the hoard of passengers from the tracks to the station. Interesting how everyone still calls it the "Sears Tower". These are the best experiences near Union Station: These places are best for bars & clubs near Union Station: Which are the best experiences near Union Station? Drinks and snack items were offered. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606-5702 Neighbourhood: West Loop Fulton Market, Randolph Market, Jackson Boulevard and Greek Town make up the West Loop. We explored the Great Hall and told our grandchildren about the Ubtouchables staircase and Elliot Ness, and took photos in front of a facsimile of the real Polar Express train engine. 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While killing time before heading to Ohare we decided to stop by and see the historical Union Station. Here is what I would do: if you want to eat right away, breakfast at Lou Mitchell's is a good choice. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-41527197', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Chicago. We arrived early enough so I could wander around the Grand Hall and study everything. THE 10 BEST Restaurants Near Union Station in Chicago, IL - Tripadvisor Open 7 days a week Union Station closes daily between 1am-5am. Rmrmber to be back at the station one hour before train time to check in with the Conductor and get your Boarding Pass. What else is there to do near Union Station? 95% of travelers recommend this experience. My aunt had a similar layover a few years ago. Kids are able to observe a wide range of animals, including antelopes, lions, seals, tigers, wallabies and zebras. Chicago around Union station - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Devastated our child, who was already dressed in his Polar Express pajamas and ready to go. Chicago Amtrak Station. Reddit - Dive into anything You have to walk slowly and just feel the history of the building seep into you. more. Is the Metropolitan Lounge in full operation, that is, as it was before Covid reductions? Luggage Storage Union Station - 24/7 - From $0.95/hour or $7.95/day On the Mezzanine level there were some fast food options like Starbucks, Jersey Mikes. Union Station also features a variety of retail stores, eateries, and offers a grand ballroom for banquets and weddings. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 5 Smallest National Parks In The U.S. And The Best Experiences At Each, 7 Transportation Decisions Youll Need To Make Before Visiting Costa Rica, Our Favorite Hikes In All 50 States (2023), Celebrating Amtraks 50th: 8 Incredible Small Town Stops, 7 Tips For Riding Amtrak Across The Country, 14 Beautiful U.S. Is there wheelchair assistance available at Union Station? But myself, I'd walk south on Michigan a few blocks to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Jill Dutton 5. Tickets are bought, but Im wondering if there are any ambulatory services available to take them to their train? Along the Riverwalk, stop by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza and the McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum. You could even bottle a few cases of their wine with your own custom-designed label. If travel is on your agenda, there are plenty of options. Next to the Great Hall is the Metropolitan Lounge where we waited for our next train. Youll meet at the Southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at Wacker Drive. I did pass by a number of plaques (National Historic Railroad Landmarks, Great Public Spaces and American Institute of Architecture) recognizing the importance of this Station. The food area was currently closed due to COVID but later an employee came around and offered to get us sodas, snacks, etc., from a list he said was available. Things to Do at and near Union Station. Wendella water taxi to Michigan Avenue and then a (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This will be our 1st trip without kids in too many years to count, so we don't mind some splurges. Union Station is an iconic building and a marvel of modern transportation for nearly a century. The Top 10 Things to Do Near Union Station, Chicago - Tripadvisor Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Things To Do Near Union Station Chicago? | Page 4 | Amtrak Unlimited Maybe Wee Willie would work, I still refer to it as Sears Tower because that is how I remember it as a small watching it go up and visiting the Skydeck countless times with the folks. If you're just visiting Chicago and not taking the train, well worth the quick visit to see the interior. Also located on the north side of the city is the Lincoln Park Zoo. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. What day of the week and what time of day is your layover? 3. Location Provided With Ticket Purchase, ~10-minute drive from Union Station. Chicago Union Station Luggage Storage | Bounce | $5.90 / Day | Book Today, the transportation hub runs Amtrak and Metra trains in and out of the city. Things to do around Union Station in Chicago - Trippy Would never recommend, terrible. Luggage storage near Union Station Luggage storage near Art Institute of Chicago Luggage storage near Greyhound Chicago Luggage storage near McCormick Place Luggage storage near Millennium Station Luggage storage near United Center Luggage storage near Lincoln Park Zoo Luggage storage near Millennium Park Luggage storage near Wicker Park All rights reserved. Belmont, Cta, or CTA - Chicago can be used for nearby transit. 233 S. Wacker Drive, ~5-minute walk or 2-minute drive from Union Station. Amata_(ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Windy City is more than just big sports stadiums and amazing museums. Thanks so much! The actual book was published a year before I was born. Dj vu! When traveling within Chicago near Union Station, you may be close to some bus stations: CTA - 47th and Lake Park Terminal, CTA Bus Stop 1313, or Cta Bus . Train Trips To Experience In 2023, My 9 Favorite Experiences On A Relaxing Weekend Train Trip From Denver To Moab, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum, Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise. Also Hemingway's house is there with a museum. Dining, Retail & Amenities | Chicago Union Station Register today and take advantage of membership benefits. Founded by Michael Dorf, City Winery is a unique facility that combines a fully functioning winery with intimate concerts, food and wine classes, and private events in their working winery. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. We were shuttled to our train car at the appropiate time, and helped with our luggage. We found 1,456 things to do for you near Union Station Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower 17,661 Reviews 233 S Wacker Drive entrance on Jackson Blvd (south side of building), Chicago, IL 60606-7147 7 minutes from Union Station Experiences from $11 See 39 Experiences Chicago Riverwalk 3,034 Reviews Chicago, IL 60601 7 minutes from Union Station