From grand halls repurposed into bustling hotel lobbies to former rail cars transformed into elegant restaurants, a select number of historic train stations around the world have undergone remarkable transformations, offering travelers a unique blend of history, luxury, and nostalgia. These architectural marvels, once bustling hubs of transportation, now provide guests with an opportunity to experience the golden age of rail travel in a whole new way.
Nestled in the stunning Aragonese Pyrenees of Spain, Canfranc Estación stands as a testament to the grandeur of the past. Built in 1928 to facilitate rail traffic between France and Spain, the station’s story is interwoven with tales of espionage and gold trafficking during World War II. Abandoned for decades following a devastating train derailment in 1970, the station has been meticulously restored and reborn as a magnificent 5-star hotel. Guests are transported back to the 1920s with the hotel’s carefully preserved Art Deco interiors, from the original tile flooring to the iconic ticket booth and clock. A restored rail car now houses a sophisticated French restaurant, while a former rail tunnel has been ingeniously repurposed as a cutting-edge science lab. The hotel also boasts a modern wellness center, complete with an indoor spa, heated pool, and tea station, offering a luxurious counterpoint to the historical ambiance.
Across the Atlantic, in Denver, Colorado, The Crawford Hotel resides within the historic walls of a train station that first opened its doors in 1914. Witnessing the decline of rail travel and subsequent closure, the station underwent extensive renovations, culminating in its grand reopening as a hotel a century later in 2014. With 112 beautifully appointed suites and lofts, The Crawford retains the original grandeur of the station’s ticket hall, now transformed into a vibrant social hub. The hall’s soaring white domed ceiling and glittering chandeliers create an atmosphere of timeless elegance, while a variety of bars, a coffee shop, a seafood and oyster bar, and boutiques offer guests a diverse range of culinary and retail experiences.
The St. Louis Union Station Hotel in Missouri retains the unmistakable charm of a working train station, its iconic clock tower standing as a proud reminder of its rich history. Dating back to 1894, the station once accommodated an astounding 100,000 passengers daily during its peak in the 1930s. Converted into a hotel in the 1970s and later refreshed in 2007, the station’s green-hued ticket hall maintains its original terrazzo floor, brickwork, and stunning stained-glass windows, offering a captivating glimpse into the past. For those seeking a truly unique experience, the hotel offers the opportunity to stay within the 230-foot tall clock tower itself. Beyond the hotel walls, guests can explore the adjacent aquarium, ride the Ferris wheel, or venture a few streets further to discover the city’s museums and vibrant downtown area.
The Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel in Scranton, Pennsylvania, proudly preserves the legacy of the Lackawanna and Western Railroad Station. Built in 1908 and listed on the US National Register of Historic Places in 1977, the station retains its original architectural features, from the meticulously preserved clocks and doors to the grand staircase, ornate ceilings, and the impressive entrance hall fountain. Transformed into a hotel in 1983, the Radisson offers 146 guest rooms, some of which are dog-friendly, along with an on-site cafe and restaurant. Guests are captivated by the hotel’s beautifully preserved historical spaces, particularly the jaw-dropping marble lobby, which evokes the grandeur of a bygone era.
In Indianapolis, the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station occupies the site of America’s very first Union Station, which opened its doors in 1853. Uniquely, this hotel shares its location with a functioning train station, offering guests a truly immersive experience. While the rumble of passing trains may not appeal to all, many guests find that the sounds add to the authenticity of the experience. For dedicated train enthusiasts, the hotel offers a unique opportunity to stay in one of 26 converted train carriages, each containing two rooms, providing a truly unforgettable lodging experience.
These remarkable hotels offer more than just accommodation; they provide a journey through time, allowing guests to relive the golden age of rail travel while enjoying modern comforts and conveniences. From the meticulously restored architectural details to the curated historical displays, these former train stations offer a unique and captivating blend of past and present, making them ideal destinations for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a truly unforgettable travel experience.
