The Union Station was constructed in 1909 to 1911. It was considered by some to be the largest, most beautiful and well-equipped passenger station in the Pacific Northwest.

However, the rise of automobiles led to the decline of the passenger rail industry. On June 14, 1984, the last passenger train left Union Station. The building was abandoned, resulting to a state of disrepair.

The building was fully renovated and restored when it was leased for 35 years to the federal courts. Three more floors were added. As of today, the Union Station may not serve its original function anymore but it is one of Tacoma?s sources of pride.

Combining elegance and spatial efficiency, it boasts of a magnificent Beaux-Arts architecture. Its focal point is the central dome. Being 90-ft high, it can easily be seen in the Tacoma skyline. The dome also features a rotunda, visited by about 300 people daily, within the building. It was closed in the 1980?s due to falling plaster and leakage. But today, it features an amazing collection of glass art and a 20-ft blue chandelier. The rotunda has also retained some of its historically significant elements like the large clock, the wooden benches, and marble water fountains.