When the transcontinental railroad system first opened in 1869, there was nothing quite like it. Connecting America’s West Coast to the eastern seaboard, the monumental tracks ushered in a golden age of railroads. Over 150 years later, train stations turned into hotels keep this spirit of exploration alive. Though cars and planes have aged society out of the generalized need for trains, the infrastructure for these rail cars remains a stunning human creation. With many built between 1880 and 1920, the stations prominently display many of the more intricate and ornamental aesthetics of the era, like Greek and Roman revival, Art Deco, and French Renaissance. And by transforming these incredible structures into hotels, not only is a building saved from demolition or abandonment, but the beauty and vibrancy of a bygone era is preserved. Here, AD visits six stunning train stations turned into hotels that showcase the lasting impact of reimagining and reusing.
This article was originally published on Architectural Digest. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.