Train stations once stood as iconic hubs of activity in cities across the United States. These grand structures, often architectural masterpieces, were more than transit points—they were bustling social centers that symbolized the power and potential of rail travel. However, as automobiles and airplanes rose in popularity, railways fell out of favor. Many of these historic stations were left abandoned, their significance diminished, and their future uncertain.
Today, a new chapter is being written for these forgotten gems. Cities across the US are breathing new life into abandoned railway stations, transforming them into vibrant spaces such as hotels, restaurants, museums, and cultural hubs. This revival not only preserves history but also reinvents these spaces for modern use, blending the past with the present.
Salt Lake City’s Union Pacific Depot is a striking example of this transformation. Built in 1908-1909, the depot once served as a major railway hub, connecting the American Northwest and Southwest. Over the years, parts of the structure were repurposed as office space and a nightclub, but much of it fell into disuse, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In October 2024, the depot reopened as the Asher Adams Hotel, a luxury establishment that masterfully retains the building’s historic charm while catering to contemporary travelers. The renovation, led by HKS Architects, preserved key architectural elements like stained-glass windows, terrazzo floors, and grand murals, including Driving the Golden Spike, which commemorates the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869.
According to Emir Tursic, a partner at HKS Architects, tearing down the depot was never an option. “The public had an emotional connection to it,” he said. “It’s part of our cultural heritage.” The structure’s Second Empire architecture and intricate craftsmanship are irreplaceable, making its preservation a testament to both history and artistry.
Revived train stations like the Asher Adams Hotel offer more than just aesthetic appeal—they provide visitors with a unique connection to local culture and history. By honoring the stories of individuals like John Asher and John Adams, cartographers who mapped the West’s railway routes, these spaces become living tributes to the pioneers of rail travel.
“Today’s travelers crave experiences that are authentic and meaningful,” Tursic explained. Sitting in the Great Hall of the Asher Adams, with its restored details and historical ambiance, transports guests to a bygone era, creating a sense of nostalgia and wonder.
The locations of these stations are another key factor in their resurgence. Built as gateways to emerging cities, many train stations occupy prime real estate near historic downtowns or cultural landmarks. Their strategic positioning makes them ideal for redevelopment, attracting businesses and tourists alike.
Moreover, these transformations represent sustainable development. By repurposing existing structures, cities reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of new construction. The preservation of these buildings also supports local economies, creating jobs and revitalizing neighborhoods.
The Asher Adams is not an isolated case. Across the US, historic train stations are finding new purposes. From museums to food halls and even coworking spaces, these adaptive reuse projects highlight the versatility of these structures. They also remind us of the golden age of American railroading and its profound impact on shaping the nation.
As cities continue to innovate, the revival of these stations serves as a model for blending historical preservation with modern utility. For travelers and locals alike, these restored spaces offer a glimpse into the past while creating memorable experiences that resonate in the present.
In the story of America’s abandoned railway stations, the final chapter has yet to be written. But one thing is clear: these iconic structures are once again taking center stage, proving that their legacy is far from over.
