Which, if any, parts of CUS are currently closed off for construction?
A friend and I should have a few hours to explore the station and nearby area next month, but neither of us have ever been to the station. Will we be able to check out the Great Hall? To get to it, do we just go through the central corridor from the area that has the Amtrak desk? Does that lead to the grand staircase? While we won't have a baby carriage, we do want to see it.
I've looked at some diagrams of the station, but the Great Hall end wasn't very detailed.
Also, while I'm playing 20 Questions:
From what I've read, the tracks don't go through the station. Therefore, I think we will be using only the south gate area--for CL and Card. Right?
Can we board from the Metropolitan Lounge, or do we exit the lounge to the general waiting area and go to the gate from there, just as non-sleeper passengers would? (Trying not to bug the lounge dragon with more questions than necessary!)
Will the Metro Lounge store our luggage for a few hours? If not, what can we do with it during the layover, assuming we have time to explore the area? No checked bags, just carry-ons.
Thanks!
Bit of station trivia: The question about the south gate area is probably a stupid one, but in Anniston, the southbound train comes into the station headed north, and the northbound train comes in headed south. (I know, only in AL!)