The historic Crawford Depot, also known as the Maine Central Passenger Railway Station, stands proudly at the top of Crawford Notch in the Bretton Woods area of Carroll, New Hampshire. Erected in 1891, this architectural gem serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that the railroad played in shaping the region's history as a premier tourist destination. Renowned for its Queen Anne railroad architecture, the Crawford Depot, now a visitors center operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club, earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Additionally, it serves as the northern terminus for most trains on the "Notch Train" service offered by the Conway Scenic Railroad.

Nestled a short distance north of Crawford Notch's height of land, the depot occupies a strategic position in the White Mountains, overseeing the Saco River's southward journey from Saco Lake. Positioned alongside United States Route 302 to the east, at the northwestern edge of Saco Lake, and bordered by the former Maine Central Railroad Mountain Division tracks to the west, the Crawford Depot finds itself in close proximity to the Appalachian Mountain Club's Crawford Notch Highland Center.

Architecturally, the depot is a charming single-story wood-frame structure crowned with a hip roof adorned with sawn brackets along the cornice. A lower roof encircles the exterior, supported by substantial knee brackets and featuring decorative molding. Notably, an octagonal turret extends from the northwestern corner, adding a touch of elegance to the building. Clad in a mix of wooden clapboards and shingles, the depot's main entrance graces the track side, inviting visitors into a space adorned with wooden finishes and complemented by a stone fireplace.

The Crawford Depot's significance is multifaceted. First and foremost, it played a pivotal role in the evolution of the Maine Central Railroad, standing as a testament to its groundbreaking achievements and scenic allure. Secondly, the depot is intrinsically linked to the development of the Crawford Notch region as a sought-after resort area. Lastly, the Crawford Depot stands out as a prime example of the architectural prowess of the railroad era.

Constructed as part of the Portland and Ogdensburg Railroad, later acquired by the Maine Central Railroad in 1888, the depot became operational in 1891. Its elaborate design, characteristic of the Queen Anne style, attested to its prominence in the Mountain Division. Over the years, the structure underwent various transformations, eventually serving as a gift shop before finding its current role as a visitor center and shop managed by the Appalachian Mountain Club. Adjacent to the Conway Scenic Railroad's platform to the south, the Crawford Depot continues to welcome visitors and enthusiasts eager to explore its rich history and architectural splendor.

Designated a National Register of Historic Places listing on April 29, 1982, the Crawford Depot stands as a living testament to an era when railroads shaped landscapes and communities, leaving an indelible mark on the scenic beauty of Crawford Notch.