train travel from indianapolis

Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, 11 best amtrak trips from indianapolis.

Indianapolis only has one Amtrak route (the Cardinal ) that provides service to Chicago, New York City and many places in between — but only three times per week. Despite the low frequency, many overnight rail vacations (and even a few day trips) are options if you plan around the schedule.

To get started, here are the best Amtrak trips from Indianapolis with good train arrival and departure times. For more trip options, you can travel to Chicago and transfer to trains that travel all over the country. See the best Amtrak trips from Chicago to learn more.

Note that eastbound trains depart Indianapolis just after midnight on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, and trains traveling to Chicago depart early in the morning on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page .

Lafayette, Indiana

Lafayette, Indiana is the home of Purdue University and is only 1.5 hours away from Indianapolis via train. A Saturday day trip is easily doable, with plenty of time to see the sights or go to a Purdue sporting event . You’ll arrive in the morning and the return train departs Lafayette at night. Top things to do include exploring the Wabash Heritage Trail next to the Wabash River, having a meal at Triple XXX (featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”) and visiting The Hann Museum and the Columbian Park Zoo . Adults can also have a drink the Knickerbocker Salon , which claims to be the oldest bar in Indiana.

Chicago is another Amtrak day trip option from Indianapolis. Travel time is about five hours with a morning arrival and a return train in early evening. You’ll have time to visit one of the many museums , go on a boat tour , hang out at a beach , eat pizza or check out some of the top attractions . The seasonal water taxi , Uber, Lyft, Divvy Bikes and CTA trains are ways to get around.

If you decide to stay overnight on a Saturday, you can take an Amtrak bus or Flixbus back to Indianapolis on Sunday.

New River Gorge

Charleston, West Virginia is an overnight train ride from Indianapolis — you’ll spend about nine hours on the train. The city is the gateway to exploring the New River Gorge National Park (pictured above). You can rent a car in Charleston and drive about two hours to the national park, which features whitewater rafting , guided hikes , camping and more. If you’d rather stay in town, you can visit the West Virginia State Museum , Capitol Market and Clay Center (art and science museum).

The train arrives in the morning on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and returns on these same days early in the evening. Because of this schedule, you can spend a day in the area and get back on the train without paying for a hotel or other vacation rental. Otherwise, the Indianapolis departure on Friday and return on Sunday from West Virginia is a popular weekend trip option.

The Greenbrier Resort

Welcoming guests since 1778, The Greenbrier Resort is less than a 10-minute walk away from the White Sulphur Springs Amtrak Station. There are numerous indoor and outdoor activities to keep you entertained. Choose from golf, biking, kayaking, carriage rides, spa treatments, an arcade, bowling alley, indoor pool and more. Travel time on the train is about 12 hours with a midday arrival. Plan to stay at least two nights here.

Staunton, Virginia

Staunton, Virginia is a historic and walkable city with an  antique automobile museum ,  festivals and the world’s only  replica of Shakepeare’s indoor theatre . It’s also the birthplace of Woodrow Wilson, and you can visit his  presidential library and museum  while you’re there.

Rental cars are available through  Enterprise , but call ahead to make sure they can pick you up from the train station. You can use the car to explore the Shenandoah Valley and drive to outdoor attractions including  Natural Chimneys Park and  Grand Taverns . Plan to stay at least two nights. Gibson’s Warehouse , a boutique hotel, is next to the Amtrak station if you’re looking for a convenient place to stay.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Visit wineries , orchards , the University of Virginia and Monticello (pictured above) in  Charlottesville, Virginia . Travel time is about 15 hours and you’ll arrive in walking distance of restaurants and a few hotels (including Hampton Inn and Suites ). Lyft, Uber and taxis are transportation options, or rent a car at Enterprise (pick up service available). Consider visiting in spring so you can check out the Taste of Monticello Wine Trail Festival . See the list of other Charlottesville events .

Alexandria, Virginia

For a small-town vibe and easy access to Washington D.C. and Mount Vernon, consider a trip to Alexandria, Virginia . George Washington considered Alexandria his home town, making a visit here a unique way to experience the roots of America’s first president. Embassy Suites and Hilton hotels are conveniently across the street from the Amtrak station, and the Old Town district on the Potomac River is a 25-minute walk away.

In addition to rideshare services and taxis, transportation options include blue and yellow line trains at the King Street-Old Town Metro Station , which will take you to Reagan Washington National Airport and all the sights in Washington D.C. The Old Town water taxi is also a fun way to reach the National Harbor , The Wharf and Georgetown .

Washington D.C.

With  free museums ,  monuments , year-round events  and river cruises , there are many things to see and do in  Washington D.C.  The train trip from Indianapolis takes about 18.5 hours, and you’ll spend one night on the train and arrive around dinnertime.  Union Station  has a direct connection to the  WMATA Metro  red line, so you can easily get around without a car. Lyft, Uber and taxis are also available. Plan your trip in mid-March to view the cherry blossoms or in the fall for cooler weather and fewer tourists.

You can transfer to other Amtrak routes in Washington D.C. to reach destinations including Florida, North Carolina, Savannah, Charleston, Atlanta, New Orleans and Vermont.

Baltimore  is a historic city with charming neighborhoods and a fun waterfront scene. Once you arrive, you can easily connect with Lyft or Uber for a ride to the  Inner Harbor  or attraction of your choice, including the  National Aquarium ,  Fort McHenry  and  Fell’s Point  neighborhood. Consider a boat tour for a unique way to see the city, and rail fans should consider visiting the  B&O Railroad Museum . Tip: Washington D.C. is only 40 minutes away via Amtrak, so you can easily visit both cities if desired.

Philadelphia

Plan a trip to  Philadelphia  to eat cheesesteaks and experience the birth of America. Top sights include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Reading Terminal Market and the oldest street in North America . Travel time is 20.5 hours from Indianapolis, with trains arriving at the historic 30th Street Station. The city has  bike rentals (be sure to check out the Schuylkill River Trail ), commuter trains, subway trains, tourist trolley and rideshare services, so it’s easy to get around without a car.

New York City

New York City is the last stop on the eastbound Cardinal route, about 22 hours from Indianapolis via train. You’ll arrive at  Penn Station and have easy access to the subway, commuter trains, taxis and rideshare services. There are many museums , attractions and Broadway shows to check out, plus world-class shopping and  dining  experiences.

You can transfer to other Amtrak routes at New York Penn Station to reach Upstate New York (including Niagara Falls ), Toronto , Montreal and New England (including Boston and Vermont ).

More Information

• Amtrak Routes by State
• Amtrak Stations in Indiana
• Amtrak Roomettes vs Bedrooms
• Amtrak’s 15 long-distance trains and the places they go

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Trains from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL

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Trains leaving Thursday

One passenger / one way

Train Indianapolis to Chicago: Trip Overview

Train companies.

According to multiple reviews, customers have expressed satisfaction with the comfortable journey provided by the service. Additionally, positive feedback has been given regarding the helpfulness of staff and cleanliness of facilities. However, some customers mentioned slight delays in arrival and departure times as well as a lack of mask requirements. There were also instances where buses did not arrive on time, resulting in passengers having to wait for an additional hour and a half for alternative transportation options.

Amtrak Indianapolis Chicago recent customer reviews

The bus did not appear. We'd save to take another one and a half hour later.

Just that the journey was comfortable

The people were very good. The train was pretty clean and restrooms good. Other than getting off and arriving a little late, and masks not being required, I enjoyed the trip.

Indianapolis to Chicago Trains

Busbud helps you find a train from Indianapolis to Chicago. Get the best fare and schedule, book a round trip ticket or find trains with WiFi and electrical outlets.

We make sure you can find a train service from Indianapolis to Chicago from the most reliable train companies operating this trip.

From train tickets to high-end trains trip from Indianapolis to Chicago, we offer a wide range of train services to best suit your needs depending on how much your budget is.

Information on this train trip

Frequently asked questions for your trip indianapolis - chicago, how much does a train ticket from indianapolis to chicago cost.

The average train ticket price from Indianapolis to Chicago is $35. The best way to find train tickets from Indianapolis to Chicago is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!

How long is the train trip from Indianapolis to Chicago?

A train trip between Indianapolis and Chicago is around 5h, although the fastest train will take about 5h. This is the time it takes to travel the 164 miles that separates the two cities.

How many daily trains are there between Indianapolis and Chicago?

The number of trains from Indianapolis to Chicago can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there is 1. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Indianapolis to Chicago by comparing and selecting the train that fits you travel style and budget on Busbud.

Which train companies travel from Indianapolis to Chicago?

When taking the train from Indianapolis to Chicago, you can travel comfortably and safely with Amtrak.

What are the best sights and things to do in Chicago?

Once in Chicago, you can exploring the city. The top sights and things to do are Museum of Contemporary Art, Willis Tower (Sears Tower), Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier, Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Indianapolis to Chicago, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $32 to $32 for a train ticket from Indianapolis to Chicago based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $32 which is on 2024-04-20.

About Train Travel

Train travel tips.

There are many train stations in the world, check it station pages on Busbud to get all information you need.

Regional train? High-speed train? Whichever train to Chicago you take, you’ll help reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint of your trip. As you watch the landscapes unfold before your eyes, you can tell yourself that with this choice, you are making sure they remain protected.

The train emits up to 30x less CO2 for a trip between Indianapolis and Chicago compared to the same trip made by plane or car. A truly ecological mode of transport that will allow you to easily reduce your carbon footprint.

Tune out to the fine sounds of your best music playlist on your train trip from Indianapolis to Chicago while indulging in miles on end of beautiful scenic views.

Did you know?

The magnetic levitation train (Maglev for short) is currently the fastest train in the world. With a speed of 603 km/ h, it is closely followed by the French high-speed train (574.8 km / h) which remains in 2020, the fastest train to date

The longest train journey in the world is between Europe and Asia. This long journey starts from Porto in Portugal and crosses the whole European continent to reach Hanoi in Vietnam in 12 days while traveling more than 17,000 km.

New York holds the record for the most platforms and track numbers in a single station. Grand Central Station in Manhattan is one of the largest rail terminals in the world with more than 44 platforms and 67 tracks to accommodate passengers.

What's the cheapest way to go from Indianapolis to Chicago?

The best way to travel between Indianapolis and Chicago is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost $35 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from $34. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Chicago, choose the train, as it will take you from Indianapolis to Chicago in about 3h 45m - that's the fastest way to get there!

Will you be returning to Indianapolis by train?

Top traveled train routes.

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Find train tickets from Chicago to Indianapolis

Good to know, top tips for finding chicago to indianapolis train tickets.

• Baseball enthusiasts looking to travel to Chicago for a game might choose a train from Chicago to Indianapolis. It’s important to know there is only one train daily. Before scheduling your trip, be sure to check the schedules so you won’t miss your game. The trip to Chicago by train takes long, so it is wise to reserve a private room so you can sleep. For a restful trip, check the different options for a private room, but do so early as they sell out quickly on long journeys.
• Business travelers going to Indianapolis on the train from Chicago to Indianapolis have a long time to get work done. If you are considering booking a Business Class fare, understand that it makes sense to book your trip as early as possible because this particular fare sells out. The Business Class fare allows for extra-large cars with plenty of leg room, and free Wi-Fi. You can check 2 free bags and get rewards points that goes toward your next trip.
• If you are a traveler that travels with more than 2 bags of luggage on the train from Chicago to Indianapolis, Amtrak has plenty of help for you. While there are self-service handcarts to help move your luggage, Red Capped agents are there to offer free assistance for your luggage. Rest assured, all your luggage is protected using a claim check, so you don’t have to worry about lost bags. To see what station Red Cap assistance is available, check the schedule when you book your trip.
• Some travelers like to take advantage of trains for a family vacation. Trips can be organized easily by looking at different train routes and deciding where you want to go. A vacation train trip can be much more exciting than flying as there is so much to see from a train. The Acela from Chicago to Indianapolis is a great trip as a vacation. There are different options for stops and other fares can be purchased so you have time to explore before getting on the next train. It’s smart to check early to decide which program is better for you.
• 25% of our users found round-trip train tickets from Chicago to Indianapolis for $69 or less.
• You will generally catch the best train deals if you travel in the evening.

FAQs when traveling from Chicago to Indianapolis by train

What upgrade options are there for the train from chicago to indianapolis.

Just because you choose one fare over another doesn’t mean you can’t upgrade. Passengers can upgrade from Coach Class to Business Class and First Class for a reasonable fee. In some cases, on trains with sleeping rooms, you might be allowed to upgrade to a roomette or bedroom, but it depends on availability. When on the train, you can ask the conductor if an upgrade is possible, and if space is open. It’s easy to upgrade on the Amtrak website or by simply calling their toll-free number.

What must I know for boarding Amtrak from Chicago to Indianapolis?

It’s a good idea to arrive at the station at least 30min early, and depending on what day you travel, arriving earlier is helpful. Boarding gates are displayed 15min before the train departs, so always look for the information so you know the correct gate. At most stations, customer service agents are available to assist you and answer any questions you might have.

What is the policy for bringing a bicycle on Amtrak from Chicago to Indianapolis?

The train allows bicycles up to 50 pounds, but be aware that every train and destination has particular rules. The train from Chicago to Indianapolis offers many different options for transporting your bike, including carry on bike service, train side checked bike service, and boxed bike service. To get particulars for your trip, be sure to investigate well in advance of your trip.

What are the various programs for group travel on trains from Chicago to Indianapolis?

Groups of 20 or more passengers might qualify for discounts on the original fare price. There is also an option for a free escort ticket for every passenger. It is important that you plan your trip early and book the group travel soon to get the cheapest fares and possible upgrades. If your group wants to book sleeping cars, you should double-check that the train has the available space.

How long is a train journey to Indianapolis from Chicago?

The train journey from Chicago to Indianapolis takes 3h 51m on average and covers a distance of 164 miles.

What train companies travel from Chicago to Indianapolis?

Amtrak is the only train operator serving this route.

Book Amtrak tickets from Chicago to Indianapolis (round-trip)

Search by stops, search by train company, book amtrak tickets from chicago to indianapolis (one-way), popular train routes to indianapolis.

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Stunning Hotels That Used To Be Train Stations

T ravelers often speak of the romance of trains, and there's undoubtedly an element of truth to that declaration. Train travel allows us to really feel the fabric of a journey, to experience the weight of a trip and its distance, and to immerse ourselves in the actual process of going from one place to another. This is unlike taking a flight, which feels like time travel to another dimension, with the points of origination and arrival seeming disparate and unconnected. 

Railway stations are a key part of the experience, hubs that are often beautifully designed, spacious, and simple, stripped of draconian security, and comfortable in the role of pretty gateways to getaways. Some stations have become landmarks in their own right, places that visitors will come to admire even if they have no intention of taking a rail trip — Grand Central Terminal in New York City is an obvious example. Others have long stopped serving a practical purpose and have been transformed into commercial spaces, perhaps into a bar or even a hotel, allowing travelers a place to stay where they can appreciate the property's rich back story.

Read more: 11 Things You Didn't Know You Could Ask For From A Hotel

Alton Station, England

Residents of England who like a little thrill in their rides will be familiar with Alton Towers, a theme park in the middle of the country packed with exciting rollercoasters and beautiful grounds. This hotel, in the county of Staffordshire, sits nearby and was a functioning station from 1849 until the 1960s. Renovations on the main station, as well as the abode of the station master, transformed the place into a fully functioning spot for a stay. The ticket office, for instance, is now a bedroom, and the ladies' waiting area, created back in the day when the genders were demarcated by their own spaces, was turned into a kitchen. 

In 2022, a refurbishment helped to spruce up the beautifully patterned Minton tiles that were a hallmark of the station floor. Some original features remain, such as the plaster panels, the ticket barrier at the booking office, and oil lamps. Expect pretty surroundings with gorgeous views of the nearby Churnet Valley.

Canfranc Estación, Spain

Looking at this property, the word "grand" immediately comes to mind. A long, gorgeously designed building sitting in the Pyrenees mountain, it was originally known as the Canfranc station and opened as a railway port in the late 1920s. Close to the border with France, the Spanish property is extremely luxurious. Much of the interior design of rooms and public spaces is modeled on the prevalent materials when the station opened, the heyday of Art Deco, with brass, wood, and velvet strongly represented. 

The exterior form was, however, more reminiscent of the style of stations from the 1800s, with touches like a roof featuring slate tiles and a massive dome as the centerpiece. Walking around the hotel, it's easy to imagine the building's original purpose, evident from the arched doorways and windows, the high-ceilinged lobby area, and the pretty floor tiles. Additions include a plush heated pool and a fully equipped gym.

Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station, United States

A broad brick building in the heart of Indianapolis, this property is a short walk from the Lucas Oil Stadium, the home field of the Indianapolis Colts. The structure boasts a Romanesque-revival exterior and was once a piece of the city's original Union Station. It is of such cultural significance that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Relics of the station quietly reveal themselves to guests, from the bright atrium lobby that was part of the train shed to the Grand Hall with its curved roof and colonnaded side arches. 

One of the most fascinating aspects of the hotel is the rooms, with 26 of the accommodations set inside actual Pullman train carriages dating from the early 1900s. For fans of railway travel, it doesn't get much better than this. Guests looking to unwind can take a dip in the heated swimming pool.

Hotel Chalet, United States

Formerly known as Chattanooga Choo Choo, this destination sits in the heart of the Tennessee city. Visitors will fall in love with rooms built inside former train carriages, with the Sleeper Deluxe category fitted with a trundle bed and opening to a wall of windows. For the complete experience, consider booking a MacArthur Suite, which stretches across the length of an entire train car, can sleep four guests, and features its own dining area, powder room, and even a private outdoor terrace (a perfect spot for lingering over a fruity tipple at the end of a day). 

The property dates to the 1970s, when it opened as the train station called Chattanooga Choo Choo, and it was joined in 2015 by the massive residential condo development called Passenger Flats. For large-scale events, the Hotel Chalet has the Beverly Ballroom, a generous space with 18-foot ceilings, swish pendant lights, and an undeniable sense of refined class.

Hotel Stanica Ravno, Bosnia And Herzegovina

The station in Bosnia and Herzegovina was once a stop for trains traveling between Dubrovnik, a signifcant trading city on the Adriatic, and Vienna, the Austrian capital. From its roots as a station over a century ago, it has been transformed into a small, quaint hotel that doesn't wow with lofty overtures and grand, dramatic spaces but by its intimate, cozy character. The hotel has six rooms and a maximum capacity of 18 guests, meaning every guest gets a personal experience in a property packed with history.

Travelers can look forward to quiet, soothing rooms with four-poster beds, comforting color schemes, and walls of exposed brick that speak of the building's past. The hotel is surrounded by undulating hills and the gorgeous Herzegovinian countryside, famous for its Karst landscape and excellent vineyards. Hotel Stanica is also a key stop on the revamped Ćiro Trail bike route, which follows the former rail route as closely as possible. Popovo Polje (which translates loosely to "Priest's Field" in English) is about 30 minutes away by car, where karst mountains rise theatrically from the valley floor.

Hotel Station Amstelveen, Netherlands

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport sits only about 15 minutes by car from the Hotel Station Amstelveen, a property whose name refers to the suburb of Amsterdam where it resides. The building, a delightfully intimate affair with only five rooms, has a sturdy brick exterior, while interiors are bright, with contrasting white linens and furnishings that create a pleasant atmosphere of old and new. 

The rooms have names celebrating the hotel's past (it first opened in 1915 as a railway station, becoming a hotel much more recently), with choices like Porter, Conductor Suite, Master, and Inspector. All feature king- or queen-size beds, televisions loaded with many viewing options, and are incredibly inviting spaces. Run as a bed and breakfast, it feels more like someone's home than a commercial enterprise, making it a comforting place to stay when visiting Amsterdam, one packed with travel-focused history and the quaint glamour that is everywhere in the Dutch capital.

InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, Thailand

Nature lovers visiting Thailand might recognize part of the name of this resort. The Intercontinental Khao Yai Resort is just a short drive from Khao Yai National Park, home to the Siamese crocodile, two types of gibbon, and more. While the InterContinental resort was never actually a train station, it certainly ticks the box when it comes to train-centric imagery, with old train carriages repurposed for accommodations. The brainchild of star American designer Bill Bensley, the carriages have undergone extensive upgrades, arrayed in curling rows around a small lake and set between verdant landscaping. 

They display both simplicity in their design and opulence in their materials, with touches like old railway signboards incorporated into the scheme. Poirot Restaurant is set inside an old rail car, as is the sleek, artfully lit Terminus Bar. Even the spa, playfully called Back on Track, features a massage table inside a carriage and a reception area brimming with railway station accents.

Kruger Shalati, South Africa

A train stuck on a bridge might make passengers feel a touch uncomfortable, but for guests of Kruger Shalati, there is nothing to worry about. The train, moored over the Sabie River, has train cars refitted to become suites, though the resort also has rooms in a house nearby. The luxury of the accommodations is apparent as soon as you step in, from plush fabrics and linens to rich marble and wood. Entry to the property is on solid land, with the reception, restaurants, and rooms set next to the Selati Bridge. 

The real draw is to book a room atop the bridge, cleverly designed so that the bed looks through large windows over the river, Kruger National Park , and the wildlife that comes to the water year-round. The overall atmosphere takes guests back to a rail safari in the 1920s, an era when glamour was an integral component in exploration. For a photo-op to incite jealousy in your friends and family, check out the pool suspended on a deck over the river.

Namsen Salmon & Train Experience, Norway

Another that is not actually a former station, but for fans of all things dual gauge, it certainly scratches the itch. Here, travelers will find train cars that double up as hotel rooms, sitting on a bridge over the Namsen River in the center of Norway. The property, run by Elizabeth Hamsund and Torger Haugen, is especially suited to train and fishing enthusiasts. The bridge used to function as a way for trains to cross the Namsen River, but since 2005, no trains have passed over it, and the line ceased operation. 

The couple were granted permission to use the bridge in 2015, and in May 2017, the duo unveiled four railway carriages on the 180-meter span, sitting above a river teeming with salmon. By night, guests can retire to cars that haven't been radically altered — some still have the upper and lower sleeping berths emblematic of train travel — while daytimes are filled with salmon fishing in beautiful nature.

Nipponia Hotel ‌Koyasan Pilgrimage Railway, Japan

A town of heartwarming tranquility and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Japanese temple settlement Koyasan is an incredible place to visit, with more than 50 temples where visitors can stay and double that number dotted around its mountainside. For anyone searching for peace, quiet, and simple Buddhist temple food, Koyasan is one to add to the bucket list. This hotel sits by a station that is historically a starting point for worshippers as they head up to the mountain temples and monasteries on foot. 

The building next to the train tracks was built in 1926 and was used by station employees, but following an overhaul, it was revamped to create two guest bedrooms. The railway connection is evident not just from the view of trains but also from the touches within the rooms — handrails, luggage racks, dials and gauges, foldable seats, passenger straps, old train staff uniforms, and more.

Old Railway Station, England

In Petworth, a small town in the rural expanses of West Sussex, England, this property uses a former station's stock to create a welcoming bed and breakfast. The railway station is more than a century old, completed in 1892, and located in a town that is known today for its wealth of arts and antique shops. Hints of yesteryear are on display at this bed and breakfast, where the morning meal is served on the former platform. 

Rooms are split between the main building — the former station house — and lovingly restored Pullman carriages. Inside the train cars, guests will find comfortable beds, wooden shutters, and gleaming wood floors, while station house digs include one with a pretty cathedral ceiling. A new edition, currently under renovation and slated to open in 2024, is Princess Ena, a carriage that will be overhauled and become a buffet car. Petworth is a nostalgic sort of place, and there is plenty waiting at The Old Railway Station Hotel.

Platform 1 Castle Howard Station, England

In gorgeous Yorkshire, England, this lodging sits by a station close to Castle Howard, a grand stately home built between 1701 and 1811. Fans of historical drama might recognize the immense country house, for it was a site used in the filming of "Brideshead Revisited," a British TV show based on the novel of the same name that first aired in 1981. Platform 1 calls the train station its home, and it's a Grade II listed building, referring to a United Kingdom designation for structures of special historic interest. 

Today, the accommodation is set up as an apartment, accessed through a door that Queen Victoria walked through when visiting a noble at the mansion more than 150 years ago. The unit is notable for its natural light and breaks off into various rooms, all with underfloor heating and a stove that uses wood logs to generate extra warmth. Trains still run intermittently at the station, and guests can watch them whizz by, especially on weekends.

Radisson Lackawanna, United States

Expect a sense of epic grandeur at this former station in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Finished in 1908 and designed in French Renaissance style, the sturdy building was a humming, bustling train station with some pretty ornate detailing. Visitors will see imposing columns out front, with a large clock above, while inside, marble columns and walls, a curved stained-glass ceiling with Tiffany glass, and a large lobby area that was the station's main concourse speak to the pomp of the place in its heyday. 

The lobby is an excellent place for just sitting and soaking in the atmosphere, not to mention imagining the thrum of passengers crisscrossing the space en route to their trains or the ticket office. Rooms, of which there are 146 divided among different categories, are more muted, with leather wall panels behind beds and unfussy color schemes dominated by whites and browns. The hotel is grand and down-to-earth all at once.

St. Louis Union Station Hotel, United States

The Missouri property was a once powerhouse of train travel, opened in 1894, close to the center of St. Louis. The hotel presents a sweep of exquisite design, not least in the Grand Hall. The lobby area shimmers with a vast curving roof, intricate mosaic detailing, artful arches around the edges, gleaming marble floors, and tons of places to sit, from comfortable couches with high backs to stylish single-seater armchairs. When used as a canvas for a 3D light show, the Grand Hall becomes a living art space, and projections of images like stained-glass windows enhance its creative appeal. 

The building is no less impressive, looking almost like a refined European chateau, with steep rooflines and a soaring clock tower. Rooms take the opulence down a few notches, distinguished by their practical form that is a contrast to public areas. The swimming pool, set inside what feels like a train shed, is a joy.

Train Spot Guesthouse, Portugal

This bed-and-breakfast lodging in Portugal is on a line that once connected the country with Spain. The property sits within the former Marvão-Beirā station, a building that has been recognized by the government as an architectural gem and that is only a few miles from the border with Spain. Rooms are dotted around the building, set around a wooden staircase edged by a shiny white handrail, and have punches of color; they come with a private or shared bathroom. Apartments, suitable for four people, are set on the ground level and add a full kitchen to the amenities offered. 

The renovation of the station is very stylish, with jazzy tiles in public spaces and pleasing outdoor seating near the old train tracks that allow guests to make the most of the joyous climate. Travelers can take meals outside by the lawn, followed by a siesta in a hammock nearby. The village of Marvão, a short distance away, still feels medieval, set high up on a promontory above the surrounding plains.

Train Station Inn & Railway Dining Car, Canada

Open seasonally during the warmer months, this property in Nova Scotia, Canada, has cabooses revamped as hotel rooms, set by the former Tatamagouche Train Station that was built in the 1880s. All made in Canada, the exterior of the train vessels look very much like they did when in service, with bright coloring and slender ladders for accessing each carriage's roof. The indoors are another story, upgraded with knotty pine walls and ceilings and quilted bedspreads, lending the rooms the air of a frontier outpost. 

They sleep between two to four guests, depending on configuration, with some featuring bunk beds or period details such as a conductor's old seat. The Caboose Carole is particularly excellent, sleeping five (assuming one of them is a child) and located near the station building, with a tucked-away bed hidden under the railway berth. Meals can be taken in a former rail car, drinks are plentiful at the Baggage Room Bar, and the old platform hosts occasional live concerts.

Union Station Hotel Nashville Yards, United States

This former station sure is a sight to behold. An imposing building, it is populated with gorgeous archways, soaring towers and turrets, and a strong Gothic aesthetic. Much of the original detail remains, from the dense stone exterior to the clock tower that showcases a statue of Mercury, and the lobby with a vaulted ceiling and rich marble floors to the gilt bas-reliefs of angels. 

The standout is the lobby roof, which gives the space with regal air through expanses of stained glass. The building opened in 1900 and has aged beautifully, helped by a 2023 renovation that installed clean-lined, tasteful rooms with high ceilings and plenty of natural light. Intricate touches, such as brass and leather accents that recall train travel, are a clever, understated way to tie the accommodations to the setting. For guests with four-legged friends and furry companions, the hotel is pet-friendly .

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