Travel by train may not be as popular as it once was, but many of those grand old historic train stations that had fallen into disuse have been repurposed into architecturally gorgeous hotels that bring nostalgia to life for travelers.
Among the more notable train station hotels are:
St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: This U.S. train station terminal opened in 1894 and is now a 500-plus-room hotel with a restored Grand Hall featuring 65-ft. ceilings, elegant archways and a decor that pays homage to its train-station roots. The Grand Hall also puts on quite a show, displaying 30 video vignettes each hour courtesy via a 3D presentation. Extra perk? The hotel is attached to the St. Louis Aquarium. ​
Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown–Union Station: America’s first “union station” when it was built in 1853, this now-hotel is within walking distance of Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Twenty-six of its 273 guestrooms are set within early 1900s Pullman train cars in the old trainshed; the more modern rooms are located in the main building.
Union Station Nashville Yards, Autograph Collection: This 1900 Romanesque Revival station has been reimagined as a boutique hotel with vaulted ceilings, stained glass and rail‑themed rooms. Guestrooms feature unique details such as leather belting reminiscent of vintage luggage trunks, ceilings and architectural elements inspired by Pullman carriage cars, accents of antique burnished brass, and an Art Deco style.
The Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo, Terminal Station, Chattanooga, Tennessee: A 1909 terminal converted into a One Key Michelin hotel, The Hotel Chalet offers both Pullman‑car accommodations and conventional rooms, plus gardens and public spaces on the old rail yard. Guests can easily access the surroundings, from arts and entertainment in the historic Southside neighborhood, to kayaking, hang gliding or a stroll along the Chattanooga Riverwalk.
The Crawford Hotel at Denver Union Station: This 1914 Beaux‑Arts train station’s former Great Hall now is a boutique hotel featuring bars, restaurants and sumptuous accommodations that pay homage to the bygone age of rail travel.
