Neil G.
Yelp
I've passed by the Union Station many times and I've got to say, I never get tired looking at this beautiful building and its Art Deco / Spanish Colonial style - definitely an iconic LA landmark which one must see especially its beautiful interior decor, the ornamental tiles, the ceilings with its intricate details and distinct wooden beams and chandeliers which brings a sense of nostalgia and old world charm. One can only imagine how awesome and glamorous this place must be back when people still used to travel in style before cars became the preferred choice of transportation.
With the concerted efforts of Metro and conservation groups, the place was preserved and serving many commuters linking communities in and out of the city either thru rails or buses. (Metro Gold, Red, Purple, Blue, Green lines)
I am not sure how many tracks they have at this station, one thing I'm sure of is that Amtrak's Surfliner and Coast Starlight has constant stops here to take passengers in and out of Los Angeles, it's such a pleasurable trip going to Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and even all the way up North to Seattle or South to San Diego! If you're planning to do trips like this, make sure to plan ahead, some trips could take at least a couple days! Book your tickets online and a rental car to drive around the area of your destination, a trip up north can be long and slightly tedious but you'll get rewarded with amazing coastal views, experience and a relaxed commute away from the LA's gridlock and road rage. In my personal opinion, it's worth doing at least once or if you really like train rides.
Back to Union Station (lol), passenger drop-off and pick-up here is easy, there are a few access points to get in; one by Alameda, the other by Cesar Chavez and behind the Station on Vigness, I've been lucky enough to always find parking at the small lot in front whenever I'm dropping off Pop's every time he goes up north (which normally just cost me a hefty $4.00 lol) , pick-up is always a breeze as I always come when I know he's already outside. There is always security patrolling outside which is nice, it's conveniently located near LA's Chinatown so if you have some time to spare before your trip, you can always grab some yummy Chinese food or some delicious subs at Philippe before your trip back home or your excursion somewhere. Have a safe trip!