Plizio Visual Lab
Old Panama Railway Station
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
The historic Panama Railroad Station in Panama City is a monument to the first transcontinental railway in the world, completed in 1855. This station served as the Pacific terminus for a line that revolutionized global travel and trade during the California Gold Rush. The railroad drastically reduced the time it took to cross the isthmus, moving from several days of dangerous travel to just a few hours. The station's architecture reflects the Victorian and industrial influences of the mid-19th century. Although the original station has seen many changes and the railway was later rebuilt during the canal construction, the site remains a vital link to the era when Panama first became a modern industrial transit hub. It symbolizes the technological leap that paved the way for the Panama Canal.
- Location: Panama
- Top sights: Ancon Hill · Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute · Instituto Oncológico Nacional
- Nearby: Chilibre (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 9 | 18 | 107 | 245 | 253 | 204 | 220 | 245 | 260 | 248 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Old Panama Railway Station is a historic station building that can be viewed from the outside. The interior is not open to the public as the station is decommissioned.
Typical hours
The exterior is accessible at any time. There are no set opening hours; best visit during daylight.
Photography
The exterior facade can be freely photographed. The surrounding landscape provides good backdrops for historic shots.
Time needed
A short visit to see the exterior takes about 15 to 20 minutes. If you want to explore the surroundings, allow 30 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a trip along the Panama Canal or a visit to the old town of Panama City (Casco Viejo). The Bridge of the Americas is also nearby.
Getting there
The old station is located in Panama City, near the train station district. It is easily accessible by taxi or car; public buses run nearby.
Insider tip
Bring a camera to capture the decaying architecture. Be aware of your surroundings as the site is unguarded and appears somewhat neglected.
Geography
Facts
- Panama Railroad was completed in 1855, before the US line.
- Built primarily with American capital to serve the Gold Rush.
- The railroad was the most profitable in the world for many years.
- The station was a hub for international travelers and mail.
- Played a critical role in the construction of the Panama Canal.
- The current station buildings reflect early 20th-century upgrades.
- Located near the Port of Balboa on the Pacific side.
- The railway still operates today, primarily for container transport.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Old Panama Railway Station (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What was the old station?
An important hub for the railway connection across the isthmus.
Can one visit it today?
Yes, it is accessible as a historic monument.
Are there trains there?
No regular service at the old building anymore.
How long does a visit take?
About 30 to 60 minutes.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, private photography is welcomed.
Old Panama Railway Station: where is it located?
Old Panama Railway Station is located in Panama.
Old Panama Railway Station: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ancon Hill, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Instituto Oncológico Nacional.
Old Panama Railway Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Old Panama Railway Station: why is it worth visiting?
The historic Panama Railroad Station in Panama City is a monument to the first transcontinental railway in the world, completed in 1855.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
More places in Panama →
Nearby cities
Chilibre
A large district in the north of Panama City.
Las Garzas, Panama
A district in the east of Panama City, near Pacora.
Balboa
A historic district at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal.
San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)
A pristine archipelago of over 360 islands, managed by the indigenous Guna people, featuring postcard-perfect beaches.
History & landmarks
Monument to the Martyrs
A memorial for the events of January 9, 1964.
Palace of Justice
Seat of the Supreme Court of Panama.
Palacio Municipal
The City Hall of Panama City in Casco Viejo.
Iglesia de San José
A church in Casco Viejo, famous for its golden altar.
Edificio Hatillo
A significant municipal government building.
National Theatre of Panama
The country's most important opera and theatre building.
Palacio de las Garzas
The official residence of the President of Panama.
Bridge of the Americas
A major road bridge that spans the Panama Canal.
More places
Ancón Hill
A forest-covered hill in the middle of Panama City, topped with a giant flag.
Panama Amphibian Rescue Center
A center for the protection of endangered frog species.
Iglesia de Santa Ana
Historic church in the Santa Ana neighborhood of Panama City.
Panama Cement Plant
Manufacturing facility for construction materials.
Panama Bulk Cargo Terminal
Facility for handling loose goods.
Metropolitan Natural Park
A tropical rainforest located within the city limits of Panama City.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama
The most important cathedral in Panama City, built over several decades.
Casa Ayora
An important historic residential building in Panama City.