Union Station continues to evolve. Check out the latest retail stores that are making D.C.'s transport hub a more effective place to shop while you wait for a train or bus.
Carpe Librum Pop-Up
50 Massachusetts Ave. N.E., Second Level
The station is providing temporary digs for community-oriented bookstore Carpe Librum, which closed on 17th Street last year. Located on the second level of the station, the pop-up sells used books, CDs, DVDs and records, and also accepts donations.
Proceeds from Carpe Librum ("seize the book") go toward D.C.-based nonprofit Turning the Page, which works to improve learning outcomes in District (and Chicago) schools.
With a 4.5-star Yelp rating out 70 reviews, Carpe Librum Pop-Up has been getting positive attention.
Aileen K. noted, "Sure it's small, and it's not a giant franchise bookstore that'll carry all your favorites. But it has hidden gems and a good number of bestsellers as well."
Yelper Rick H. wrote, "The big bookstores are gone in DC, but tucked away in Union Station there actually is a bookstore ... with books. I felt giddy!"
Carpe Librum's pop-up is open from 10 a.m.–9 p.m. on Monday-Saturday and noon–6 p.m. on Sunday.
Warby Parker
50 Massachusetts Ave. N.E.
Known for slashing eyewear prices by circumventing the dominant manufacturers and selling online, Warby Parker has been adding brick-and-mortar outposts to its mix, the latest of which is in Union Station.
This Warby Parker location currently holds 4.5 stars out of two reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews so far.
Yelper Pritha R., who reviewed Warby Parker on May 5, wrote, "I was lucky enough to stumble into Warby Parker's opening day at Union Station. Honestly, shopping for eyewear at a major metropolitan transport hub doesn't at first sound like sound strategy, but listen up, East Coast friends: get on this. You won't regret it!"
Oliver J. noted, "This place rocks! I feel like the selection has greatly increased from when they first started as a company.The place is bright and clean, and everyone was helpful and friendly."
Warby Parker is open from 8 a.m.–7 p.m. on weekdays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. on Saturday, and noon–5 p.m. on Sunday.
Sugarfina
50 Massachusetts Ave. N.E., First Floor
Union Station is the latest outpost for Sugarfina, a nationwide chain of "candy stores for grown-ups." The company is known for its chic boxes of candy in quirky flavors, from green-juice gummy bears to hard candies flavored like bourbon and champagne.
With a four-star Yelp rating from one review on Yelp, Sugarfina's new location has been getting positive early attention.
Yelper Serena N., who reviewed Sugarfina - Union Station on April 4, wrote, "It's bright, clean, and neatly organized. The saleswomen were very friendly and helpful."
Sugarfina - Union Station is open from 10 a.m.–9 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m.–6 p.m. on weekends.
Best Nails
50 Massachusetts Ave. N.E., Lower Level
Best Nails is a nail salon on the lower level of Union Station that also offers eyelash enhancements and waxing.
Yelp users are still warming up to Best Nails, which currently holds 3.5 stars out of three reviews on the site.
Yelper Shanajanelle S., who reviewed Best Nails on May 5, wrote, "I opted for a gel pedicure with the SNS dip powder manicure and had two nails repaired. I was there for two hours. While the timing could be improved, the staff was very nice and actually worked on my mani/pedi simultaneously."
Yelper Elizabeth J. wrote, "Got me in and out quickly for a manicure. Was a little rough around the edges but I was thrilled to find them in a convenient location. Very nice staff!"
Best Nails is open from 10 a.m.–9 p.m. on Monday-Saturday and noon–5 p.m. on Sunday.
