Historic Decatur Union Depot

It is always fascinating to learn about how many small railroads grew into major American railway systems. Such was the case with the Tuscumbia, Courtland and Decatur Railroad in Northern Alabama. It was absorbed twice and became a part of Southern RR that is now Norfolk Southern. Hence, this large depot was constructed originally for the terminus of Decatur. The restoration of this station was expertly manicured and holds a fantastic display of memorabilia and model trains. If you are a rail fan, this is a must-see and with children, the running model trains are well worth your time. Thanks to the city of Decatur for preserving this fantastic part of American railroad history.

Great experience if you love trains and local history. Lots of different models around and many in working condition that the staff turned on for us to watch go around. Added bonus was some life size trains out back that were working moving cars around to different places.

A hidden gem with heart and trains! I had no idea the Historic Decatur Union Depot even existed until I saw it in a local tourism paper, and I’m so glad I did. My four-year-old loves trains, so we had to go. He was thrilled to see a real train drive past the depot! We actually showed up when they were closed, but everyone there was so kind. They let us walk around and took the time to show us different things inside the depot. Their warmth and genuine love for trains made the whole experience unforgettable. If you’re into model trains, this place is definitely for you. There’s so much to admire and explore. I absolutely loved everything there, but the people were the best part. They showed true kindness and enthusiasm, and that really warmed my heart. Highly recommend stopping by. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for a place filled with good people and good energy, this is it.

Great place to watch trains at! Managed to see 9 of them in the 4 hours I was there! The depot itself was really nice also, with several model layouts and lots of railroad artifacts!

We drove here from Florida. Judge Breland was very kind and gave us an informative tour of the depot. The model railroad layout inside has an insane amount of detail reflecting some of the landmarks around Decatur. The platform behind the depot also offers a great view of the busy CSX/NS rail lines. Strongly recommend going here, whether you love trains or history.

Wonderful experience. Free to go, and the guide was wonderful.

I grew up in Decatur, but I didn't know any of this history or historical context. The trains are great for little ones but I'd like to go back to learn more.

Stopped in while antiquing downtown, David was an absolute pleasure to talk to, he had a wealth of knowledge and I learned so much even though we only had a short time to visit. He was very friendly and a joy to converse with. The inside is well built and very clean and tidy. There was a selection of very nice memorabilia and antiques. There were quite a few model trains to look at as well as a precious track with a selection of local attractions. We even got to see a train pass and it was quite a fantastic view.

The guides are fantastic. Tons of information on the history of Decatur. The model train set is really something to see. Tour is free. Seriously go see the model train setup. The models of the local houses are incredible.

Now restored!! Drive by and check it out. The City of Decatur has bought this historic depot, and completed a $2.5 million major restoration. The south part of the depot will be a museum. It will house a theater, and there will be a large model train layout of the city of Decatur. The museum should be complete about Spring of 2017. I hope to update my review then, and add another star or two! The north part of the building will be used as office space by the Decatur civilian police department.

This is not the original site of the train depot. The original depot, during the Civil War, sat down by the river. This depot was built in 1929..