Fairfield–Vacaville Hannigan Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Strategically positioned between the thriving cities of Fairfield and Vacaville in Solano County, California, the Fairfield–Vacaville Hannigan Station is a vital transportation hub on Amtrak California’s Capitol Corridor line. Opened in late 2017 and dedicated to Tom Hannigan—a champion of regional rail development—the station connects Northern California travelers with major destinations including Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area. With a focus on accessibility, sustainability, and community impact, this guide covers all you need to know for a seamless visit: from station hours and ticketing, to amenities, local attractions, and travel tips (Capitol Corridor; STA Project Overview).
Whether you are a daily commuter, a visitor eager to explore Solano County, or a history enthusiast, this comprehensive resource will help you plan your journey, offering practical insights and highlighting the station’s broader role in regional growth and sustainable transit. For up-to-date schedules and ticketing, check the official Amtrak Capitol Corridor page.
Table of Contents
- About Fairfield–Vacaville Station
- Visiting Hours and Accessibility
- Amenities and Services
- Ticketing and Fare Information
- Travel Tips
- Connectivity and Local Transportation
- Regional and Economic Impact
- Sustainability and Future Developments
- Nearby Attractions
- Safety and Security
- Visual Highlights
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Sources
About Fairfield–Vacaville Station
Opened in November 2017, Fairfield–Vacaville Hannigan Station was developed through a partnership among the Solano Transportation Authority, the Cities of Fairfield and Vacaville, the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority, and Amtrak (STA Project Timeline). In 2019, it was rededicated to Tom Hannigan, a longtime advocate for expanding regional rail service, whose leadership helped bring the Capitol Corridor to Solano County.
The station is a multimodal hub, integrating Amtrak trains with local and regional buses, including Fairfield and Suisun Transit (FAST) and FAST Connect microtransit, facilitating seamless transfers and enhanced regional mobility (FAST Transit).
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
- Operating Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM. Hours align with Capitol Corridor train schedules and may vary slightly with holiday or special service adjustments.
- ADA Accessibility: The station is fully ADA-compliant, offering step-free access, tactile paving, ramps, accessible restrooms, and platform heights designed for easy boarding.
- Parking: Free, with both short-term and long-term options. Accessible parking and bike racks available.
- Real-Time Info: Electronic displays provide up-to-date train schedules and service alerts.
Amenities and Services
- Sheltered Waiting Areas: Comfortable, well-maintained seating and covered spaces for all-weather comfort.
- Restrooms: ADA-compliant and maintained to high cleanliness standards.
- Ticketing: Self-service kiosks for purchasing and printing Amtrak tickets, plus mobile ticketing via the Amtrak app.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the station.
- Safety Features: Surveillance cameras, emergency call boxes, and regular law enforcement patrols.
- Vending Machines: Snacks and drinks available onsite.
Ticketing and Fare Information
Tickets for Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor can be purchased:
- Online: Amtrak website or Capitol Corridor app.
- Mobile: Amtrak and Capitol Corridor official mobile apps for digital boarding passes.
- At the Station: Automated ticket vending machines.
- Fares: Range from approximately $5 for short trips to $30 for longer journeys, with discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel.
Tip: Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times.
Travel Tips
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure for parking, ticketing, and boarding.
- Use Public Transit: Parking can fill up on weekdays; consider FAST buses or FAST Connect microtransit for easy access.
- Check Schedules: Always verify train and bus schedules ahead of your visit, especially during holidays (FAST Service Alerts).
- Travel Light: Storage is limited at the station.
- Stay Connected: Use free Wi-Fi to check real-time updates.
Connectivity and Local Transportation
Fairfield–Vacaville Hannigan Station is a true multimodal hub. In addition to Capitol Corridor intercity rail, the station connects directly to:
- FAST Bus Routes: 1, 3, 6, 7, 8T (FAST Routes & Schedules).
- FAST Connect: On-demand microtransit for flexible local travel.
- Ride-Hailing: Uber, Lyft, and local taxi stands are adjacent.
- Cycling: Ample bike racks and nearby cycling trails.
The station’s location at Peabody and Vanden Roads, approximately 5 miles from Fairfield’s city center, offers convenient access via Interstate 80 (Things.in).
Regional and Economic Impact
Since its opening, the station has:
- Enhanced Access: Improved connections to jobs, schools (e.g., Solano Community College), and Travis Air Force Base.
- Supported Development: Spurred mixed-use, walkable community growth as part of the Fairfield Train Station Specific Plan.
- Driven Economic Growth: Increased property values and supported local businesses (STA Project Overview).
Sustainability and Future Developments
- Sustainability Features: Energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and promotion of rail, bus, and cycling to reduce carbon emissions.
- Ongoing Improvements: A $2 million TIRCP grant funded additional parking and enhanced bike/pedestrian access in 2020.
- Future Plans: A dedicated depot building is in development to expand station amenities (TIRCP Award Details).
Nearby Attractions
Fairfield and Vacaville Highlights
- Fairfield Historic District: 19th-century landmarks and shops.
- Vacaville Museum: Local history exhibits.
- Nut Tree Plaza: Shopping, dining, and family events.
- Travis Air Force Base: Aviation museum and community events.
- Parks and Trails: Opportunities for hiking, cycling, and outdoor recreation.
The Jelly Belly Factory
A must-visit local landmark, the Jelly Belly Factory offers interactive candy-making tours, tastings, and a retail store. Located at 1 Jelly Belly Lane in Fairfield, it’s easily reached by car or local transit from the station (Things.in).
Jelly Belly Factory Details
- Hours: Mon–Sat 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sun 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Admission: Free for self-guided tours; guided tours available by reservation.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and accessible restrooms.
- Parking: Free and ample on-site.
Tip: Photography is allowed in designated areas; check for restrictions in production zones.
Safety and Security
- Monitoring: 24/7 video surveillance and regular law enforcement presence.
- Emergency Preparedness: Clearly marked exits, emergency call boxes, and accessible equipment.
Visual Highlights
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Fairfield–Vacaville Station’s operating hours?
A: Daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, aligned with train schedules.
Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: At station kiosks, online via the Amtrak website, or through mobile apps.
Q: Is the station ADA accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access, tactile paving, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes, with both short-term and long-term options.
Q: What local attractions are nearby?
A: The Jelly Belly Factory, Fairfield Historic District, Vacaville Museum, and Nut Tree Plaza are all within easy reach.
Q: Are there guided tours at the station?
A: No official tours, but the station and surroundings are popular for photography and self-guided exploration.
Summary and Final Tips
Fairfield–Vacaville Hannigan Station is more than a stop on a rail line—it’s a modern gateway to Northern California’s culture, economy, and sustainable future. With excellent amenities, integrated transit options, and proximity to unique attractions like the Jelly Belly Factory, it serves both commuters and visitors alike. Continuing investments in infrastructure and community development ensure that the station remains a pillar of regional connectivity (STA Project Updates; Capitol Corridor; FAST Transit).
Plan your journey:
- Check current schedules and ticketing options via Amtrak Capitol Corridor.
- Download the Audiala app for real-time updates and seamless transit planning.
- Follow local agencies on social media for service alerts and event news.
Sources
- This guide references information from Amtrak Capitol Corridor, Solano Transportation Authority, Capitol Corridor News Release, Things.in Fairfield Guide, and FAST Transit.
