Union Station in Washington DC, built in 1907, was inspired by a number of different grand architectural styles. It became the hub for travelers to the capital, reaching a peak of 200,000 a day during World War II. In 1977 it was determined that the station was in danger of imminent structural collapse and by 1981 Union Station was closed for restoration and refurbishing. It reopened in 1988 and is once again one of Washington's busiest and best-known places, visited by 40 million people each year, traveling by bus and train or visiting its many shops, cafes, and restaurants.
