Six Cool Railway Stations That Every Train Fan Will Adore
Cool Railway Stations and amazing airports are the first things you see when you enter a destination. They are the first way to assess a country’s culture and history. With millions of travellers passing by each year, they are also the ideal place to connect with some local people and get insights on the best places to visit. If you are someone waiting to explore cool railway stations, here is some inspiration for you –
Sao Bento, Porto
The Sao Bento Railway Station in Porto reflects romanticised versions of important moments in Portuguese history. The architectural art shows battles, royal weddings, development of railway transport over the years and country scenes. The design of the station, built by Porto architect José Marques da Silva, was inspired from the French Beaux Arts architecture. For most visitors, the 20,000 blue-white azulejo panels covering the walls are a hit.
Grand Central Station, New York, USA
New York’s Grand Central Station is well known among both local visitors and tourists for its intricate architecture and interior design. Its ceiling looks celestial with 12 zodiac constellations. Another famous sight is the Booth Clock, which is a common meeting point among New Yorkers. There is also a ‘transportation statue’ depicting three Roman gods that seems to be watching over hustling New Yorkers.
Arts Et Metiers, Paris, France
The Arts Et Metiers is also a must in the list of cool railway stations. It was designed by a French comic book artist, who aimed for the station to look like a submarine. Its design is based on steam power science fiction on the bicentenary of the Conservatoire National des Arts et Metiers Museum. Most of the décor has copper looking plating, making this place appealing to the eye.
Union Station, Denver, USA
The Union Station at Denver is known among commuters for its beautiful floral arch work and for its amazing interiors. The station has more than 2,300 individually carved Columbine flowers giving it an exquisite look. The best part is that the station has more than 10 chef owned restaurants and a 112 room hotel known as ‘The Crawford Hotel’ for a comfortable stay.
Antwerp Central, Antwerp, Belgium
Another one in the list of cool railway stations is the Antwerp Central Station. This station had been witness to German V-2 bombs during WWII, yet successfully bounced back from all the damage. For making this antique station, designer Louis Delacenserie had used 20 types of marble and stone. It has been known as the “railway cathedral” since decades. Designed with an impressive dome and great marble floors, the waiting room hall of the station is also used to host events and concerts.
London Bridge Station Walkway, London, UK
Originally opened in the 19 century by the London and Greenwich Railway, the London Bridge Station Walkway is currently the city’s oldest railway terminus. The ‘community walkway’ at this station presents artworks by famous English artist — Mark Titchner. It is said to encourage passers-by to reflect upon their hectic daily commute.
If you are a big fan of train rides, do consider visiting these cool railway stations even if you don’t plan on boarding the train. As they say, a little extra fun doesn’t harm anyone!
