Last week I rode Metra’s Milwaukee District North Line (as it’s called now; those of us old enough to remember still call it “The Milwaukee Road”) from Deerfield to Chicago Union Station to attend a conference.  Since my normal commute does not involve the flanged wheel, so this was a welcome diversion.  I had read and heard Amtrak had been renovating and relocating some of its services at this grand facility they own, and having caught an earlier train than I’d expected, I decided to spend my extra time scouting it out.

First of all, I don’t recall the holiday decorations ever looking this good.  I wonder if the average daily commuter even notices  these festive additions on their hurried, get-out-of-my-way to work routine.   There’s even an almost life size mock up of the Polar Express locomotive accompanying the Santa Claus display area.  What kid wouldn’t want his photo taken with Santa at Union Station?

More impressive and important than the holiday decorations are the renovations and improvements of Amtrak’s services here.  The last major renovation at CUS was in 1991, so this quarter-century makeover is quite welcomed.  All Amtrak services have been moved to the Great Hall, including the ticket counter, information kiosk, Metropolitan Lounge, general waiting area (in the great hall itself), and the addition of the Legacy Club and Burlington Room for extra-fare passengers.  Check back for a future post once I’ve sampled these amenities.

Another nice touch is the addition of some historical interpretive displays.  CUS is a grand, old structure whose history should be celebrated and shared; this one below even showcases the worn, uneven marble stairs:

As for the mezzanine level (think food court and other retail services), renovation is still ongoing, but is manageable and not difficult to navigate.  Check back for updates after my next visit!

Do you have a favorite railroad holiday story?  Or a memorable experience at CUS?  Let me know: