🚆 How to Get to Metra from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]
From Union Station, connect to Metra easily in Chicago. Walk 5–10 minutes or transfer via nearby terminals. Tickets cost $4–$6. Learn travel times, routes, and best options (2025–2026).
If you’re traveling in Chicago, Union Station is one of the busiest transportation hubs, and it connects closely with Metra commuter rail lines. Whether you’re commuting to the suburbs or visiting nearby cities, knowing how to get to Metra from Union Station will save you time and hassle. This 2025–2026 guide breaks down walking directions, nearby terminals, ticket costs, and travel tips.
🚶 Walking to Metra from Union Station
The fastest way to reach Metra from Union Station is simply by walking.
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Ogilvie Transportation Center (Metra UP-N, UP-NW, UP-W lines): Just a 5–7 minute walk west along Madison or Washington Street.
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LaSalle Street Station (Metra Rock Island Line): About a 10–12 minute walk south via Clark or Financial Place.
Walking is free, straightforward, and the most common choice for Metra commuters from Union Station.
🚉 Metra Lines Accessible from Union Station
Union Station itself is home to several Metra lines that depart directly:
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BNSF Railway (to Aurora)
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Heritage Corridor (to Joliet)
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North Central Service (to Antioch)
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SouthWest Service (to Manhattan)
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Milwaukee District North (to Fox Lake)
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Milwaukee District West (to Elgin)
If your Metra line departs from Union Station, you don’t even need to leave the building — just head down to the concourse level and check the departure boards.
🚌 Bus or CTA Options to Reach Other Metra Stations
If your Metra line doesn’t run from Union Station itself, you can also connect by CTA bus:
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To Ogilvie: CTA buses along Madison or Washington get you there in under 5 minutes for $2.50.
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To LaSalle Street Station: CTA bus routes (like #24 or #36) take around 10 minutes.
This is helpful if you prefer not to walk, especially during winter months in Chicago.
🚖 Taxi, Uber, or Lyft from Union Station to Metra
Rideshare services are widely available:
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To Ogilvie: $6–$8, 3–5 minutes.
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To LaSalle: $8–$12, 5–7 minutes.
This is the most convenient choice if you’re carrying luggage or traveling during bad weather.
🎟️ Ticket Costs for Metra (2025–2026)
Metra fares depend on the zone system:
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Downtown (Zone A): $4.25 one-way
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Suburbs (Zones B–G): $5–$8 one-way
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Unlimited Day Pass: $7–$10, depending on zones
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Tickets can be purchased via the Ventra app or station vending machines.
📊 Travel Summary Table
| Option | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚶 Walk to Ogilvie/LaSalle | 5–12 mins | Free | Daily commuters, short distance |
| 🚉 Direct Metra from Union | Immediate | $4–$8 | Travelers on lines served at station |
| 🚌 CTA Bus Transfer | 5–10 mins | $2.50 | Winter travel, avoiding long walks |
| 🚖 Taxi/Uber/Lyft | 3–7 mins | $6–$12 | Luggage, bad weather, quick transfer |
🙋 FAQs on Getting to Metra from Union Station
Q1. Which Metra lines run directly from Union Station?
Metra BNSF, Heritage Corridor, North Central Service, SouthWest Service, and Milwaukee District North & West all depart from Union Station.
Q2. How do I get from Union Station to Ogilvie Transportation Center?
It’s a 5–7 minute walk west along Madison or Washington Street, or a short CTA bus/ride-share ride.
Q3. How much is a Metra ticket from Union Station?
Fares start at $4.25 for Zone A and increase up to $8 depending on distance. A day pass costs $7–$10.
Q4. Can I buy Metra tickets inside Union Station?
Yes. Tickets are available at the Metra ticket office, vending machines, or on the Ventra app.
Q5. What’s the fastest way to reach LaSalle Street Metra Station from Union Station?
Walking takes about 10–12 minutes, or you can take a taxi/ride-share in under 7 minutes for $8–$12.
✅ That’s your complete 2025–2026 guide on how to get to Metra from Union Station. Whether you walk, ride a bus, or catch a quick Uber, connecting to Metra is simple and affordable.