Grand Central Station (Chicago): History, Photos, Overview
Last revised: February 27, 2025
By: Adam Burns
Chicago's Grand Central Station is one of the city's great railroad terminals, despite the fact that it is sometimes forgotten
due to the fact that it was destroyed before Amtrak even began.
The station was the smallest such facility in the city, used by the fewest railroads (just a handful served the terminal) although its impressive interior and exterior architecture overshadows these setbacks.
While it was not constructed by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad it nevertheless became the eastern trunk line's link to Chicago and one its most prominent stations (from a public standpoint).
Grand Central was built in the late 19th century and its original owners had lavish plans for the facility until bankruptcy ended such ideas.
The terminal never reached its full potential and saddest of all, was razed in 1971 without much forethought.
Perhaps most ironic, in a city of constant development and a population of nearly 3 million, since the building's destruction more than 40 years ago the land on which it was located is still remains mostly empty.
The history of Chicago's Grand Central Station (not be confused with the New York Central's original Grand Central Station in New York City) dates back to October of 1889.
At this time the Chicago & Northern Pacific Railroad, then a subsidiary of the Wisconsin Central (itself owned by the Northern Pacific Railway) began construction of a new passenger terminal located along Harrison Street in the city's Southside.
At the time, the NP had plans to reach Chicago directly, given the city's importance and wanted a new station to showcase its entrance into the region.
As such, it would not only have provided the railroad with more efficient freight operations but also allowed the NP to move passengers trains over its own rails all of the way into the Windy City.
Grand Central Station was designed by architect Solon S. Beman, which built the terminal in the Norman Castellated style.
Bemen constructed the building using brownstone and granite although the exterior primarily consisted of red brick. Despite the general materials used it was still a lavish terminal, featuring arches and exterior columns that almost gave it a castle-like look.
Baltimore & Ohio E9A #1454 (built as #34) leads train #6, the eastbound "Capitol Limited" (Chicago - Baltimore/Washington) out of the Windy City's Grand Central Station (the building with the clock tower on the far right) in the 1960s.The building's overall dimensions were 228 feet wide and 482 feet long with more than 110,000 square feet of interior space.
However, the station's most impressive feature was its beautiful
247-foot clock tower whose magnificent timepiece kept accurate time
through the end and at during its early years featured a bell, which
rang on each hour.
From an interior standpoint the station was given equal grandeur. It featured marble floors, a marble fireplace, Corinthian-style columns that stood 26-feet high, stained-glass windows, and elegant high-wood benches.
During the terminal's early years of operation it housed a restaurant on the ground floor and an impressive hotel in the above stories.
Additionally, the attached train shed was 555 feet long, 156 feet wide, and 78 feet high with much of the structure encased in glass allowing for plenty of light to flow through.
Grand Central opened to the general public on December 8, 1890, the second-oldest second-generation passenger terminal in Chicago (the oldest being Dearborn Station constructed in 1883).
While the Chicago & Northern Pacific ferried Wisconsin Central passenger trains to and from the terminal, Grand Central also played host to trains of:
- Baltimore & Ohio
- Chicago Great Western (via its subsidiary, the Minnesota & Northwestern Railroad)
- Pere Marquette Railway
- Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie Railway (Soo Line)
Baltimore & Ohio E8A #1449 departs Chicago's Grand Central Station with the railroad's flagship, the "Capitol Limited," in June, 1967. This facility was razed during the 1970's.Unfortunately for the Northern Pacific, the Financial Panic of 1893 forced the railroad into bankruptcy which ended its dreams of a direct route into Chicago.
Despite attempts to hold onto to its Chicago area properties, alas Grand Central Station was sold at foreclosure to the B&O in 1910.
The eastern trunk line made the station uniquely its own by later adding a neon-lit "B&O" sign in the bell tower, providing for a beautiful photographic setting of trains awaiting departure just outside the train shed with the sign glowing brightly in the background.
Additionally, the trackage the railroad gained from the transaction became another part of its Baltimore and Ohio Chicago Terminal Railroad.
Taken from Chicago's Roosevelt Road Bridge, Baltimore & Ohio RS1 #9186 totes a single baggage car along Grand Central Station's lead tracks on December 26, 1967. Roger Puta photo.While the station was architecturally beautiful, with only one major railroad serving the building (the Soo and Chicago Great Western were both regional, Midwestern systems) it was never as busy as the five other major terminals serving the Chicago.
During peak operations from its opening through the 1920s (and later during World War II) the station averaged just 38 trains per day with just under 4,000 daily passengers.
In comparison the terminal saw just 10% of Central Station's (owned by Illinois Central) daily trains and was well behind fifth-busiest Dearborn Station's 146 trains-per-day.
Baltimore & Ohio E9A #1456 (ex-#38) awaits departure from Chicago's Grand Central Station in the 1960's. The facility was razed in the 1970's.Still, one could find several storied streamliners calling to Grand Central including the B&O's flagship Capitol Limited as well as other named trains like the Columbian and Shenandoah.
In addition, the Soo Line's Laker could regularly be found at the terminal as could the CGW's Great Western Limited, Legionnaire, and Minnesotan.
Finally, the Pere Marquette's Grand Rapids Flyer and Grand Rapids Express both called to the station. As passenger rail serviced waned following World War II so did business at Grand Central Station.
By 1956 the Chicago Great Western stopped using the facility and by the early 1960s only the owner, Baltimore & Ohio remained with the grand station seeing just a paltry 210 passengers daily.
In a surprising move, somewhat uncharacteristic of the B&O (which became known for saving historic structures and equipment) the company elected to raze Grand Central Station in 1971 to sell the perceived-valuable land beneath it.
In addition, the terminal had no future rail value as the city of Chicago was urging the region's railroads to consolidate facilities in preparation for Amtrak.
Amazingly, the ground failed to sell, for decades. It was thought the property would be prime for new condos, apartments, and office buildings but ultimately none of this came to be.
The Baltimore & Ohio retained the property through the Chessie System era and later when CSX Transportation was created in 1987. Only in 2008 did the ground finally sell to a real estate agent.
Recent Articles
-
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:50 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:48 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)
May 20, 26 11:10 AM
Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series
May 20, 26 10:30 AM
Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026). -
The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service
May 20, 26 09:49 AM
ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average… -
Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)
May 19, 26 11:55 PM
Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:59 AM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Illinois 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:56 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Kentucky 'Dinner Train' Rides From Bardstown
May 19, 26 11:53 AM
The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history. -
Vermont 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:50 AM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
Ohio - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:49 AM
The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over… -
Texas 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:43 AM
Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un… -
South Dakota 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:40 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:33 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Amtrak's First Airo Trainset Arrives in Seattle
May 19, 26 10:01 AM
Amtrak's next-generation Airo passenger trainset has officially arrived in Seattle, marking a major milestone in the railroad's largest fleet overhaul in decades and the start of a new era for travel… -
Maine "Ice Cream" Tasting Train Rides
May 19, 26 09:49 AM
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum’s Ice Cream Train is a family-friendly Friday-night tradition that turns a short rail excursion into a small event.
%20leads%20train%20%236%2C%20the%20eastbound%20%22Capitol%20Limited%22%20(Chicago%20-%20Baltimore%2FWashington)%20out%20of%20the%20Windy%20City's%20Grand%20Central%20Station%20(the%20building%20with%20the%20clock%20tower%20on%20the%20far%20right)%20in%20the%201960s.){kind=link}
%20awaits%20departure%20from%20Chicago's%20Grand%20Central%20Station%20in%20the%201960's.%20The%20facility%20was%20razed%20in%20the%201970's.){kind=link}
