Summary
Union Station, Hartford, Connecticut’s train and bus depot, is conveniently situated in downtown Hartford. This brownstone station, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was rebuilt in 1914 after a devastating fire. On the Spruce Street side of Union Station, a vibrant, 636-foot mural designed by artist Cleve Gray in 1988 makes the train and bus station a recognizable landmark in Hartford. Titled “Movement in Space,” the mural features enameled steel tiles. This station also connects to NYC. Here’s your comprehensive guide to Hartford’s transportation hub.
Transportation Options
The following train and bus lines serve Hartford’s Union Station:
- Amtrak
- Connecticut Transit
- Connecticut Limo
- Greyhound Bus Lines
- Peter Pan Bus Lines
Directions
The main entrance to Union Station is located on Spruce Street in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. From I-84 Eastbound, take exit 48A for Asylum Street and proceed straight onto Spruce Street. The station will be on your right. For those traveling west on I-84, take exit 48 for Asylum Street, turn left onto Asylum Street, then left on Spruce Street, and the station will be on your right.
Parking
The Spruce Street Parking Lot is conveniently located across the street from Union Station. Generally, you won’t experience difficulties finding parking in this lot. To avoid potential damage to your vehicle, consider parking away from other cars.
As of 2018, rates are $2 for the first half-hour and $2 per additional half-hour with a maximum daily rate of $15. If you’re simply picking someone up or dropping someone off at Union Station, there is no need to park — you can pull in front of the station for this purpose.
Hotels Nearby
Several hotels within walking distance of the train and bus station include:
- Red Roof PLUS+ Hartford Downtown – 440 Asylum Street, Hartford, 937-328-4246
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Hartford Downtown – 338 Asylum Street, Hartford, 860-524-0223
- Hilton Hartford – 315 Trumbull Street, Hartford, 860-728-5151
- Residence Inn Hartford Downtown – 942 Main Street, Hartford, 860-524-5550
Restaurants and Food Concessions
If you’re looking to grab a quick bite before your train or bus ride, you’ll find a Dunkin’ Donuts and a Subway located inside Union Station.
If you have time to unwind over a meal or are meeting someone in Hartford, the nearest restaurant is Chango Rosa at Union Place. This cocktail bar and eatery offers tacos and other Latin American street food, utilizing smoked meats in its dishes, similar to its Hartford sister restaurant: Bear’s Smokehouse. The Reuben tacos are particularly popular. Chango Rosa features both indoor and outdoor seating for your enjoyment.
Tips for Visitors
- Union Station is compact, ensuring that you won’t face difficulties navigating through it. Notably, there is just one train track—Track 1—making it easy to find your way.
- A steep set of stairs leads up to Track 1. If you have heavy luggage or are unable to climb stairs, an elevator is available on the opposite side of the station.
Need a Taxi?
If a taxi is necessary upon your arrival at Union Station, it’s wise to call ahead to make arrangements. Here’s a list of Hartford taxi services for your convenience:
- A-1 Taxi Service – 860-944-0911
- Airport Express Livery & Taxi – 860-836-8294
- The Bill Taxi Company – 860-559-1040
- Central CT Taxi – 860-833-6949
- A City Cab – 860-627-9320
- Executive 2000 Taxi Service – 860-635-8222/800-801-0361
- Executive Cab Co., Inc. – 860-627-5843
- 5 Star Taxi – 860-527-5555
- Metro-Star Taxi Company – 860-292-6666
- United Cab Co. – 860-547-1602
- Windsor Taxi – 860-524-5000
- Yellow Cab Co. – 860-666-6666
Before calling a taxi, consider whether the free Hartford dash Shuttle may be able to take you to your destination. Additionally, Uber and Lyft services are also available.
Contact
Union Station is owned and operated by the Greater Hartford Transit District. For inquiries, you can reach them at 860-247-5329.
