Metra Train hours differ by day of the week and rail line. Weekday trains usually start running in the early morning between 4:30 AM and 6:00 AM from downtown Chicago, with additional service provided during rush hours. Midday service is less frequent, with headways of about 30 to 60 minutes. The trains back from the burbs to downtown go until about 9-11 PM.
On the weekends, service begins later, and trains run less often throughout the day (5 or 6 a.m.). Weekend service is also winding down earlier in the evening than during the week. Riders should check the website or app for full and current schedules to ensure that they travel more efficiently and avoid any delays.
Metra Train Hours
Metra Weekday Train Hours
| Time Period | Description | Typical Time Range | Service Frequency | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Start of Service | First outbound trains depart downtown stations | 4:30 AM – 6:00 AM | Every 15–30 minutes | Early trains serve suburban commuters heading out early. |
| Morning Peak Hours | High volume outbound commuter traffic | 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Every 10–20 minutes | Trains run frequently to handle rush hour demand. |
| Midday Service | Lower ridership, consistent service | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Every 30–60 minutes | Fewer trains, but still regular to maintain convenience. |
| Evening Peak Hours | Inbound trains returning commuters downtown | 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Every 10–30 minutes | Peak return period with frequent trains. |
| Late Evening Service | Reduced service after peak hours | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Every 30–60 minutes | Limited trains; some lines may end service earlier. |
| Overnight Service | Minimal or no service | After 9:30 PM | Rare or no trains | Most lines do not offer overnight service. |
Metra Weekend Train Hours
| Time Period | Description | Typical Time Range | Service Frequency | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Start of Service | First trains begin later compared to weekdays | 5:00 AM – 6:00 AM | Every 30–60 minutes | Service begins later due to lower early demand. |
| Morning to Afternoon | Moderate ridership with steady service | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Every 30–60 minutes | Many lines run reduced schedules; some skip stops. |
| Evening Service | Reduced train frequency | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Every 60 minutes or less | Some lines end service earlier on weekends. |
| Limited/Late Night Service | Very limited or no trains after evening hours | After 9:00 PM | Infrequent or no service | Weekend late-night trains may not run on all lines. |
| Service Variations | Some lines offer limited service or special schedules | All day (varies by line) | Depends on line and weekend day | Riders advised to check schedules in advance |
Metra Special Holiday or Event Schedules
1. Major Holidays (Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year’s, Independence Day)
- Reduced or Sunday-level service.
- Less frequent trains; a few lines/stations may be out of service or severely reduced.
- Check schedules in advance.
2. Other Holidays (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Easter):
- Modified weekend or Sunday schedules.
- Infrequent trains; potentially altered routes.
3. Special Event Days (Sports games, concerts, festivals) :
- Additional trains and cars were added for both before and after events.
- Some lines will have late-night service extended.
4. Late-Night Service:
- Available on event days; it depends on the line and timing of the show you’re going to see.
- Confirm availability before traveling.
5. Unexpected Changes:
- Weather and emergency delays and cancellations: Audience members are advised to call ahead if they’re uncertain.
- Real-time alerts available via My Metra and official channels.
6. Stay Updated:
- Refer to Metra’s website, app, and alerts for up-to-date details, especially around holidays and special events.
How to Find and Check Metra Train Hours
Metra Official Website:
- Download full PDF timetables for any Metra line, up to three months in the future, for scheduled service.
- Search for train times by station or line using the interactive schedule search.
- See service advisories and check for delays, closures, or schedule changes.
- Print out morning schedules or keep them on your device for offline use.
2. Metra Mobile App
The Metra Mobile app is a powerful tool designed to help riders easily plan their trips and stay informed. Features include:
- Updates of schedules in real time with current departure and arrival times.
- In-app ticket buying, which will enable users to purchase single-ride, multi-ride, and monthly passes without having to stand in line.
- Trip planning software to recommend the best trains between different stations of origin and destination.
- Service advisories and updates alert you to delays, changes, or cancellations to your regular routes.
The app can be downloaded on iOS and Android.
3. Real-Time Tracking Tools (Metra Tracker)
Metra Tracker provides a real-time tracker for the Chicago Metra. With this tool, commuters can:
- View where trains are on the map.
- Look up estimated arrival and departure times at stops along your route.
- Real-time tracking of service disruptions or delays.
- Use the website or Metra Mobile app to narrow down estimated train arrival/departure times and significantly cut down on your planning time and walk-up wait time.
4. Customer Service Contacts
Specific customer inquiries regarding travel for individuals with special needs and alerts can be addressed by calling Metra at:
- Phone: Find the Metra Customer Service line to get answers about schedules, fares, or anything else.
- Email: Send questions or concerns via email using the Metra website contact form.
- In person: Go to an open Metra ticket counter at a station and get the help you need face-to-face.
Customer service agents can answer scheduled questions, provide details of service changes, and help with ticket-related queries.
Tips for Planning Your Trip Around Train Hours
- Arrive Early: Assuming you want to have time to buy a ticket, get on the train, and account for delays, aim to be at the station 10–15 minutes early!
- Check Service Alerts and Delays: Before you head out, remember to check Metra’s website, mobile app, or real-time tracker tools for any service interruptions, delays, or schedule changes.
- Plan for Early or Late Trains: Also, keep in mind the first and last train services if you travel late at night or early in the morning. A few lines have service interruptions during off-peak times. Consider Alternate Transportation: Must-haves for holidays and special events, including as an alternative cover in the event of unplanned service changes.
- Use Trip Planning Tools: Plan on the best available connections and routes from current schedules using Metra’s mobile app or website trip planner.
Q. What time does the first Metra train leave on weekdays?
First trains usually start between 4:30 and 6. Every line is different.
Q. Do Metra trains run on the weekends?
Yes, on weekends, schedules will usually start later, have fewer trains, and end earlier than weekdays.
Q. Does Metra Operate Trains on Holidays?
On most major holidays, Metra offers a Sunday or reduced service schedule. Call ahead to check the holiday schedule.
Q. When does the last Metra train run on weekdays?
They will expect the last train to be at 9:00-10:00 PM, but it depends on the line.
Q. Are weekend train hours different from those on weekdays?
Yes, weekend timing and schedule generally begin later and stop earlier than weekdays, as well as have fewer trains.