Winona’s Historic Train Depot: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time
Step back in time at Winona’s historic train depot, a charming gateway to the city’s rich railroad heritage and vibrant arts scene! #WinonaTrainDepot #HistoricTravel
Winona, Minnesota – In our hometown of Winona, Minnesota, a piece of history stands proudly near Winona State University. The Winona train depot, built in 1888, showcases the city’s rich railroad heritage that dates back to the 1850s. This architectural gem, designed by John T. W. Jennings, showcases the Romanesque Revival style with its dark red brick and stone highlights.
The depot was more than just a building; it was a social hub for Winona, with separate waiting rooms for men and women, adorned with maple floors and Georgia pine woodwork. Today, one waiting room still welcomes passengers, while the other is used as office space by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the current owner.
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The depot’s unique features include a three-sided bay for the station master and a distinctive roofline with decorative shingles. Although some decorative elements have been lost over time, the building’s charm remains intact. It even hosted presidents like Grover Cleveland and Teddy Roosevelt during their whistle-stop tours.
After the demolition of another local depot in 1980, the community rallied to preserve the Milwaukee Road station. With the help of the Canadian Pacific Railway, volunteers, and city officials, the depot underwent repairs and renovations, ensuring its place in Winona’s history.
Second Busiest Train Depot in Minnesota
The depot is not just a relic of the past; it’s still a bustling hub. Fun fact: Winona has the second busiest train depot in Minnesota: St. Paul is first.
Located at 65 E. 11th Street, the Amtrak Train depot sees the Empire Builder arrive and depart twice daily. It’s a popular spot for day-trippers from St. Paul, offering a quaint escape to Winona’s arts scene and architectural wonders.
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While the station is unstaffed and lacks modern amenities like Wi-Fi, it remains an essential part of Winona’s landscape. Visitors are advised to arrive early for their train journeys, especially if they need assistance or are checking baggage.
So, next time you’re in Winona, take a moment to visit this historic train depot and step back in time to the golden age of rail travel.
Know Before You Go: Amtrak Service to Winona
- Amtrak Depot Location: The Amtrak train depot is located at 65 E. Mark Street, Winona, MN 55987.
- Train Service: The Empire Builder arrives and departs from Winona twice a day. Day trips from St. Paul are popular, with morning departures and evening returns. For the latest information and to plan your trip, visit Amtrak here.
- Parking: Parking options are available at the Amtrak station. For more information, visit Amtrak here.
- Station Hours: The station waiting room is open 7 days a week, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Baggage Service: Checked baggage service is self-service. Follow station signage, tag your own bags, and take them to the conductor at train side.
- Station Amenities: The station is unstaffed and does not have an ATM, elevator, payphones, vending machines, or WiFi. Amtrak ticketing kiosks and restrooms are available.
- Train Travel Tips:
- Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to departure if you need to check baggage or require ticketing/passenger assistance.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure if you’re not checking baggage or don’t need assistance.
- Local Attractions: Winona is known for its arts institutions, the Great River Shakespeare Festival, and Prairie School architecture masterpieces.
My hubby Jack and I love living here in Winona, and we’d welcome you to come and explore this awesome town located on the shores of the mighty Mississippi River. If you’re in town, swing by our place for some tater tot hotdish! Uff da, it’s good.
