While tourists flock to the obvious attractions in Denver’s Union Station, countless
hidden treasures lie just steps away from the crowds. These lesser-known spots
offer authentic glimpses into the historic terminal’s character, from secret passages
to overlooked architectural details.
Like a well-loved book with dog-eared pages, these local favorites reveal the true spirit of Denver’s living room.
The Terminal Bar’s Hidden Booth
Behind an unmarked door in the historic ticket office lies a private booth where
railroad executives once conducted business. The original brass fixtures and leather
seating remain perfectly preserved while vintage train schedules hang on the walls.
Local historians know to request this spot for special occasions, as it’s rarely offered
to regular patrons.
Underground Passages
A discrete stairwell near Platform 3 leads to a network of tunnels once used by
postal workers sorting mail from incoming trains. Original sorting tables and
pneumatic tube systems remain intact, telling stories of the station’s bustling past.
The passages now provide weather protection for commuters in the know.
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The Station Master’s Office
This overlooked room above the main hall maintains its original 1920s decor and
offers unique views through rose windows. Vintage railway maps still line the walls,
showing historic routes across the American West.
Local artists often sketch here, drawing inspiration from the quiet atmosphere and historical details.
The Cooper Lounge’s Secret Section
A hidden alcove in the mezzanine level provides intimate seating with panoramic
views of the Great Hall. The space features original brass light fixtures and leather
chairs from the station’s golden age.
Local couples know to request Table 9 for its perfect view of both the station’s iconic clock and the sunset.
Platform Zero
An unmarked platform area behind Track 1 offers quiet seating away from commuter
crowds. Original wooden benches provide comfortable spots for reading or people-
watching.
The morning light creates stunning patterns through the iron and glass roof structure.
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The Merchant’s Exchange
A former trading floor hidden behind modern retail spaces maintains its original
marble counters where commodities were once sold. Local coffee enthusiasts gather
here for unique views of train movements while enjoying their morning brew.
The space features historic price boards still showing final trading figures from 1958.
The Garden Terrace
An overlooked outdoor space above the north wing provides a peaceful retreat with
views of arriving trains. Heritage roses planted during the station’s 1914 renovation
still bloom each summer.
Local gardeners maintain the space using traditional railway station landscaping techniques.
The Telegraph Room
This preserved office space maintains working telegraph equipment and original
Western Union fixtures. Local history groups occasionally demonstrate vintage
communication methods here.
The room’s acoustics make it perfect for quiet conversations away from the main hall’s echoes.
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The Clockmaker’s Workshop
A tiny workshop near the iconic clock houses tools and spare parts used for
maintenance since 1914. The current clockmaker still uses original maintenance logs
to keep the mechanism running perfectly.
Local horologists gather here monthly to discuss preservation techniques.
The Station’s Secret Gallery
An unmarked hallway displays a rotating collection of historic railway photographs
and artifacts. Local artists curate the space, focusing on Denver’s transportation
history.
The natural light from hidden skylights creates perfect viewing conditions.
The Reading Room
A quiet corner of the upper level maintains vintage railway timetables and
newspapers from the station’s early days. Original oak reading tables and brass
lamps create a perfect study atmosphere.
Local writers often work here, drawing inspiration from the historic surroundings.
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The Conductor’s Corridor
A narrow passage once used by train conductors provides quick access between
platforms while offering unique architectural views. Original brass handrails and
marble steps show wear patterns from decades of use.
Local photographers favor this spot for its dramatic lighting.
The Station’s Wine Vault
Deep beneath the main hall lies a climate-controlled vault originally used for storing
dining car provisions. Local wine enthusiasts know about the weekly tastings held in
this atmospheric space.
The original brick arches create perfect acoustics for small gatherings.
The Postal Platform
An abandoned mail-sorting platform offers quiet views of modern train operations.
Historic mail cart tracks remain embedded in the concrete floor.
Local train enthusiasts gather here to photograph incoming equipment.
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The Station’s Hidden Garden
A concealed courtyard features plants chosen to match the original 1914
landscaping plan. Local botanical groups maintain heritage varieties once common
along railway lines.
Morning light creates stunning effects through the iron latticework.
The Map Room
A preserved office contains detailed topographical maps used for planning historic
railway routes. Local geographers still reference these materials for research
projects.
The room’s original oak cabinets protect irreplaceable documents.
The Station’s Observatory
A little-known balcony offers perfect views of both mountain sunsets and train
movements. Local weather watchers gather here to observe approaching storms.
The space features original brass telescopes once used for monitoring train signals.
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The Baggage Master’s Office
This preserved room maintains its original wooden counters and brass fittings while
offering unique views of platform operations. Local historians often discover
uncatalogued photographs in their filing cabinets.
The space still uses its original railway clock system.
The Station’s Art Vault
A secure room houses the station’s collection of railway art and advertising
materials. Local artists study here by appointment, drawing inspiration from vintage
design styles.
The climate-controlled space protects irreplaceable posters and paintings.
The Echo Gallery
A curved passage near the main hall creates unique acoustic effects perfect for quiet
conversations. Local musicians sometimes practice here, taking advantage of the
natural reverberations.
The space features original tilework depicting Colorado wildlife.
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Discover Colorado’s Railway History
These hidden corners of Union Station reveal layers of history and character often
missed by casual visitors. Each location offers unique perspectives on Denver’s
transportation heritage while providing peaceful alternatives to crowded public
spaces.
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