Englewood Station Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: The Legacy of Englewood Station
Englewood Station, once located at 63rd and State Streets in Chicago’s South Side, stands as a significant symbol of the city’s railroad past and urban growth. Established in the late 19th century, the station was a vital junction for major railroads such as the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, New York Central Railroad, Pennsylvania Railroad, and the New York, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad. Its presence cemented Chicago’s reputation as the “Railroad Capital of America,” serving both local commuters and cross-country travelers. From the 1920s to the 1950s, Englewood Station became especially renowned for the daily spectacle of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s Broadway Limited and the New York Central’s 20th Century Limited, two legendary passenger trains that departed side by side, thrilling rail enthusiasts and the public alike.
Although Englewood Station ceased operations in the late 20th century and most of its physical structure has vanished, the site remains accessible to those interested in Chicago’s rail history. The neighborhood is still served by public transit, and the remnants of the station offer a tangible connection to the city’s transportation legacy. For a deeper understanding, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Historic Pullman Foundation Exhibit Hall, DuSable Museum of African American History, and Chicago History Museum. Resources like Chicago Rail History and the Audiala mobile app provide valuable context and virtual exploration opportunities (dbpedia.org, liquisearch.com, Wikipedia).
Table of Contents
- Historical Development of Englewood Station
- Visiting Englewood Station: Hours, Tickets, and Tips
- Architectural Features and Historical Significance
- Operational History and Legacy
- Practical Information for Visitors
- Safety, Accessibility, and Travel Tips
- Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary and Visitor Tips
- References and Further Reading
Historical Development of Englewood Station
Origins and Early Growth
Englewood Station, also known as Englewood Union Station, opened in the late 19th century at a pivotal rail junction on Chicago’s South Side (dbpedia.org). Its establishment allowed for seamless connections between the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, New York Central Railroad, Pennsylvania Railroad, and the New York, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad (Nickel Plate). This convergence transformed Englewood into a bustling travel hub, facilitating both local and intercity travel during Chicago’s rapid urban expansion.
Golden Age and National Significance
The golden era of Englewood Station spanned the 1920s to 1950s, highlighted by the daily departures of the Broadway Limited and the 20th Century Limited (liquisearch.com). These luxury trains epitomized the heyday of American passenger rail, racing side by side after leaving Englewood—a spectacle that captivated onlookers and reinforced the station’s place in railroading lore. Englewood also served notable trains like the westbound Rockets of the Rock Island Railroad, further cementing its status as a vital interchange.
Decline and Closure
Postwar shifts in transportation, particularly the rise of automobiles and highways, led to a decline in rail travel. The merger of the Pennsylvania and New York Central railroads into Penn Central, followed by the creation of Conrail, further eroded Englewood Station’s role (liquisearch.com). Passenger service dwindled; by the late 1970s the station closed, and most of its structure was demolished. Only scattered remnants and platform traces remain today.
Architectural and Cultural Legacy
Englewood Station’s legacy extends beyond its physical remains. Its architecture reflected the robust, utilitarian style of early 20th-century rail facilities, with brickwork and steel canopies designed for heavy use (Towns and Nature). The station’s influence on neighborhood growth, commerce, and Chicago’s cultural identity is still remembered by rail enthusiasts and historians. Today, Norfolk Southern Railway and Amtrak use parts of the original rail lines for freight and passenger operations (liquisearch.com).
Visiting Englewood Station: Hours, Tickets, and Tips
Hours and Tickets
Englewood Station is permanently closed; there are no operating hours, ticketing, or on-site facilities. The remnants are accessible at any time, though visitors should note the lack of amenities and interpretive signage.
Location and Access
- Address: Near 63rd Street and State Street, Englewood, Chicago
- Public Transit: Use the CTA Red Line (63rd Street station) for convenient access (CTA).
- Parking: Limited in the surrounding area; public transportation is recommended.
What to Expect
- Remnants: Scattered platforms, sections of track beds, and steel canopies.
- Active Rail Corridor: The area is adjacent to operating freight and passenger lines—exercise caution and do not trespass.
- No Visitor Amenities: No restrooms, cafes, or visitor centers.
Nearby Attractions
- Historic Pullman Foundation Exhibit Hall: Insights into Chicago’s industrial and labor history (timeout.com).
- DuSable Museum of African American History: Cultural exhibits in Washington Park (timeout.com).
- Chicago History Museum: Extensive collections on the city’s urban and rail history (chicagohistory.org).
For a virtual experience, explore Chicago Rail History virtual tours.
Architectural Features and Historical Significance
Englewood Station’s design was practical, with brick buildings and steel canopies typical of secondary rail hubs. The platforms and canopies that remain reflect the station’s era of heavy passenger and freight use (Towns and Nature). From 1906 to 1949, the station boasted a direct connection to Chicago’s rapid transit system, facilitating easy transfers for South Side residents (Wikipedia).
Operational History and Legacy
Englewood Station served as a transfer point for multiple major railroads, allowing convenient travel without the need to enter downtown. The station managed large passenger volumes, especially during World War II, and played a key role in freight movement for the city’s industrial South Side (Towns and Nature). Commuter services ended in 1963, and today, only Metra’s SouthWest Service trains pass through without stopping (Wikipedia).
Practical Information for Visitors
Accessibility
Englewood is accessible by CTA Red and Green Lines, with nearby stations at 63rd and Halsted. While public transit is reliable, parking is limited and the area has higher-than-average crime rates (Eye and Pen). Daytime visits are recommended.
Safety and Travel Tips
- Visit in groups and during daylight hours.
- Remain on main roads and avoid side streets.
- Limit valuables and stay alert.
- Use public transportation or reputable rideshare services.
Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest
- Kennedy–King College: Community education and culinary programs.
- Englewood STEM High School: Modern educational hub reflecting neighborhood revitalization.
- Local Murals and Public Art: Vibrant installations celebrating Englewood’s history.
- Englewood Back To School Parade: Annual event showcasing community spirit.
For additional rail history, visit the Illinois Railway Museum or the Chicago Cultural Center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are there visiting hours or entrance fees for Englewood Station?
A: The site is open-air and accessible at all times; there are no entrance fees.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Parking is limited. Public transportation is the best option.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No official tours are offered at the station, but local museums and historical societies may include Englewood in their programming.
Q: Is Englewood Station wheelchair accessible?
A: As a historical site with no facilities, accessibility is limited. CTA stations nearby have accessibility features.
Q: How safe is the Englewood neighborhood?
A: Crime rates are higher than the city average. Visit in groups, during the day, and remain alert (Amber Student).
Summary and Visitor Tips
Englewood Station is a unique destination for history enthusiasts and railfans, offering a glimpse into Chicago’s railroading era. While the station is no longer operational and lacks visitor amenities, its remnants tell a powerful story of urban transformation. For a richer experience, combine your visit with stops at nearby museums and landmarks. Always prioritize safety, use public transit, and visit during daylight hours. The Audiala app and Chicago Rail History virtual tours can further enhance your exploration.
References and Further Reading
- Englewood Station Chicago: History, Visiting Information, and Nearby Attractions (LiquiSearch)
- Visiting Englewood Station Chicago: History, Architecture, Travel Tips, and Visitor Information (Towns and Nature)
- Visiting Englewood Station: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights in Chicago (Miss Tourist)
- Exploring Englewood Union Station: Visiting Hours, Safety Tips, and Historical Insights (American Rails)
- Englewood Station (Chicago and Western Indiana Railroad), Wikipedia
- CTA Official Website
- Chicago History Museum
- Chicago Cultural Center
- Illinois Railway Museum
- Amber Student: Chicago Dangerous Neighborhoods
- Eye and Pen: Is Englewood Chicago Safe?
- Explore Chicago Rail History Virtual Tours
For the latest updates, guided tour information, and travel tips, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Share your Englewood Station explorations using #EnglewoodStationVisit.
