Trains continue to be a source of excitement and adventure. The national saga of railroading is rich in vivid folklore. Important legends, a strong culture, and railroad lingo with a style all its own have developed over the years. The Lower level of the massive depot which was once the second busiest train station in Michigan has been renovated to its original grandeur. Terrazzo floors gleam, beautiful oak trimmed windows provide views of the surrounding railroad tracks, and the restored ticket cage is reminiscent of the turn of the century.
Passengers still walk the corridors of the depot to board their train.
The Amtrak International eastbound to Toronto and westbound to Chicago make daily stops at the Durand Union Station. Thirty or more freight trains pass the station daily providing for excitement and photo opportunities for rail fans on a regular basis. All the activity proves that while waiting on the depot platform, people can still experience the sights and sounds of railroading and imagine what it was like decades ago. The Depot is also the developing State Railroad History Museum, offering an educational and entertaining source of Michigan's rich railroad history. The museum gallery features new exhibits several times per year to pay tribute to the colorful heritage of the railroader, and to the contribution of Michigan's railroad to lumbering, mining, agriculture, and industry.