Explore
The Past

For 100 years, Union Depot has connected people to places, to moments and to each other. From its grand opening in 1926 to today’s vibrant events, travel and everyday experiences, this landmark has continually evolved while honoring its historic roots.

Browse historic photos from around the property below, or scan a QR code on-site to see how the space around you looked in decades past.

Building Exterior

view of union depot with vintage cars parked on street

union depot facade with mid-centry cars parked in front

union depot exterior with vintage cars parked in front

head house construction progress in 1918

head house construction progress in 1919

group of men gathered in front of union depot in 1931

vintage car parading in front of union depot with a crowd

A historic landmark in Saint Paul since 1926. From streetcars to modern transit, Union Depot’s presence has remained a constant in a changing city.

Train Yard

historic steam train leaving union depot

historic burlington route train parked at union depot

historic travelers walking down union depot train platform

great northern train leaving union depot

great northern train parked at union depot

historic train painted with Buy War Bonds

crowd gathered around train with soldiers leaning from windows

waiting room under construction shown with train tracks in foreground

train tracks at union depot with downtown buildings in background

Where departures began and arrivals were celebrated. The rail lines beyond Union Depot carried stories across the region and connected Saint Paul to the nation.

Head House

historic photo of men marching through union depot head house with Railroad Day signs

banner handing in union depot head house welcoming soldiers home

The architectural heart of Union Depot. From its stately exterior to the grand entry within, the Head House has stood as a symbol of arrival and connection for generations.

Concourse

Once bustling with rail passengers, the Concourse has long been a corridor of movement and momentum. Today, it continues to guide guests through events, gatherings and everyday journeys.

Waiting Room

couple reading newspaper in union depot waiting room

passengers lined up in union depot waiting room

passengers inside historic union depot waiting room

adult holding a baby inside historic union depot waiting room

couple embracing inside union depot waiting room

child walking through union depot waiting room with suitcase

empty waiting room at union depot prior to restoration

A space designed to impress. The soaring ceilings and expansive floor once welcomed thousands of travelers daily — and remain one of Union Depot’s most iconic interior views.

Moments in Time

exterior of arrivals concourse at union depot

burned portion from original union depot building

union depot arrival concourse under construction

historic woman reading newspaper on a train

Snapshots from Union Depot’s rich history — from life inside dining cars to candid scenes that capture the spirit of travel in another era. These images offer a glimpse into the everyday experiences, details and stories that shaped 100 years of connection.

Union Depot’s Centennial is more than a milestone — it’s a celebration of the people, stories, and connections that have shaped this place for 100 years. Thank you for being part of the journey.