National Train Day Celebrated at Tampa Union Station. Welcome Back!
Hundreds of people attended the 2023 Train Day at Union Station in Tampa, seeing exhibits, including model trains, history displays, and city departments,
Celebrating 25 years since Tampa Union Station reopened following a major renovation, Tampa Train Day 2023 rolled in on Saturday, May 13. Hundreds of folks came to celebrate everything trains and see the historic building that houses the Tampa depot. Exhibits, including model trains, history displays, and city departments, were all present. Opening in 1912, Union Station was an integral part of the development of Tampa, allowing for the travel of tourists who flocked here during the land boom in the 1920s and transporting migrant labor who were the backbone of the cigar and other early industries.
Friends of Tampa Union Station hosted the event and welcomed guests to the depot
Miniature model trains were on exhibit in the newly renovated baggage building
Model trains of all sizes are on display
Dozens of trains used to depart every day from Tampa. Now, there are just a few, serving Miami to the south and New York to the north. However, there are more restoration plans in the works, including structural repair and adding a possible café or coffee shop. The newly restored baggage building can be used as an awesome event space. Friends of Tampa Union Station believe that if activity in the Italian Renaissance Revival style building increases, so might the frequency of train routes, arrivals, and departures. Feeling more adventurous? Buy a ticket and take a train ride!
Train aficionados came out in force to celebrate National Train Day
Historic markers, like this one memorializing Seaboard Railroad employees who perished in World War II, dot the historic buildings. Be sure to take the time to see the details here.
Remnants of the painful past are evident at Tampa's Union Station. The building, once segregated, had two waiting rooms, and two sets of bathrooms.
Trian lovers are entertained outside under cover where passengers once boarded
There was once a restaurant unofficially known as Union Station Restaurant in the recently renovated baggage building. There is hope that the new renovation will allow for a small snack bar or coffee shop, but for now, travelers have vending machines.
Passengers wait for the arrival of the Silver Star to Miami. Arrivals and departures continue while Train Day attendees celebrate.
The daily train schedule shows two trains today at Union Station along with the arrival of connecting busses from other train stations
Imagine the stories this old wooden bench could tell of the joy and sorrow here
The Silver Meteor up close
If you have not been to Tampa Union Station, or it’s been a while, go visit. As can be seen in these photos, the architecture is stunning. It feels like a step back in time and is reminiscent of depots in larger cities. The hustle and bustle that once pervaded the station have quieted, but if you listen carefully, you might still hear the whispers of those who are celebrating a cherished arrival or the sorrow of those saying goodbye as a loved one departs.
Parking is easy, and the station is open to the public. Keep your eyes open next year for the 2024 National Training Day.
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