Traveling from Chicago to Aurora by Metra is a convenient option for commuters, students, visitors, and anyone planning a trip to the western suburbs. The Metra BNSF Railway Line connects downtown Chicago with Aurora, with trains serving several communities along the way.
This guide covers the Chicago departure station, Aurora arrival station, train schedules, ticket prices, estimated travel time, intermediate stops, and helpful tips for planning your journey.
Which Metra train goes from Chicago to Aurora?
- Train line: BNSF Railway Line
- Departure station: Chicago Union Station
- Arrival station: Aurora Transportation Center
- Direction: Westbound toward Aurora
- Service type: Commuter rail
- Best for: Daily commuting, business trips, and weekend travel
Board a westbound BNSF train at Chicago Union Station and check that the train serves Aurora. Not every train necessarily operates at the same times or makes every intermediate stop, so check the timetable for your travel day.
Metra Chicago to Aurora train schedule
Metra operates multiple BNSF trains between Chicago Union Station and Aurora. Travel times vary by departure and number of stops, with many journeys taking approximately 55–85 minutes. Published weekday schedules include departures around 5:30 AM and services late into the night. Exact times vary by day.
Sample Chicago to Aurora departures
| Departure from Chicago | Approximate arrival in Aurora |
|---|---|
| 5:33 AM | 6:51 AM |
| 6:16 AM | 7:21 AM |
| 6:46 AM | 7:51 AM |
| 10:33 PM | 11:51 PM |
| 11:33 PM | 12:51 AM next day |
These are examples from a published timetable, not a guarantee of current departures. Check the official Metra schedule for your exact travel date, as well as delays and service alerts.
3. Metra Chicago to Aurora ticket prices
The fare depends on the ticket type and any applicable reduced-fare eligibility. A current published fare listing shows the following adult prices for Aurora–Chicago Union Station travel. Confirm your fare with Metra before purchasing.
| Ticket type | Listed price |
|---|---|
| One-way ticket | $6.75 |
| Day Pass | $13.50 |
| Monthly Pass | $135.00 |
Prices are in US dollars and may change. Special offers, reduced fares, and ticket rules may apply.
How to buy Metra tickets
You can check ticket options and purchase tickets through Metra’s official channels, including the Ventra app where available. Choose the correct departure and destination stations, review the fare, and follow the ticket instructions before boarding.
4. Metra BNSF Line stops between Chicago and Aurora
The BNSF Line serves communities west of Chicago. Depending on the specific train, stops along the route may include:
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Chicago Union Station
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Halsted Street
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Western Avenue
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Cicero
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LaVergne
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Berwyn
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Riverside
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Brookfield
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LaGrange Road
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Downers Grove
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Lisle
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Naperville
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Route 59
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Aurora Transportation Center
Not every train stops at every station. Use the timetable’s individual train column to verify stops before travelling.
5. How to get to Chicago Union Station
Chicago Union Station is the departure point for the BNSF train to Aurora.
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Travel to Chicago Union Station by CTA, bus, taxi, rideshare, or on foot from a nearby location.
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Enter the station and check the departure boards for the BNSF train heading to Aurora.
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Confirm the train number, departure time, and platform information.
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Board the correct train and keep your ticket accessible during the journey.
Allow extra time if you are unfamiliar with the station or travelling during rush hour.
6. Arriving at Aurora Transportation Center
Aurora Transportation Center is the western terminus of the BNSF Line. After arriving, you can continue to your destination by local bus, taxi, rideshare, bicycle, or on foot, depending on the distance.
If you are travelling to downtown Aurora or a nearby suburb, check the onward transportation options before leaving the station.
7. Why take Metra from Chicago to Aurora?
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Convenient commuting: Useful for regular trips between downtown Chicago and the western suburbs.
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Avoid highway traffic: A practical alternative to driving on busy routes.
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Predictable journey planning: Published schedules help you plan departure and arrival times.
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Multiple ticket options: One-way, day, and monthly tickets may suit different travel needs.
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Intermediate stops: Convenient for passengers travelling to communities along the BNSF route.
8. Helpful travel tips
- Check the current BNSF timetable before leaving.
- Confirm whether your train stops at Aurora Transportation Center.
- Buy the appropriate ticket before boarding and follow Metra’s ticket-validation instructions.
- Check service alerts for delays, schedule changes, or disruptions.
- Allow extra time to reach Union Station and locate your train.
- If returning to Chicago, check the Aurora to Chicago Metra schedule separately; return departures may differ from outbound times.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Metra take from Chicago to Aurora?
The journey commonly takes around 55–85 minutes, depending on the train and its stops.
Which Metra line runs from Chicago to Aurora?
The BNSF Railway Line connects Chicago Union Station with Aurora Transportation Center.
How much is a Metra ticket from Chicago to Aurora?
A published fare listing shows an adult one-way fare of $6.75. Check the official fare calculator for the current price before travelling.
Does Metra run from Chicago to Aurora on weekends?
Yes, the BNSF Line has weekend service. However, weekend schedules differ from weekday schedules, so check the timetable for your travel date.
What is the last Metra train from Chicago to Aurora?
The last departure varies by day and schedule. Check Metra’s current BNSF timetable rather than relying on a weekday or weekend departure time from an older schedule.
Can I buy a Metra ticket on my phone?
Metra offers ticketing through its official digital channels, including the Ventra app. Check the available ticket options and purchase instructions before boarding.
Is Metra better than driving from Chicago to Aurora?
Metra can be a convenient alternative if you want to avoid driving and parking. Driving may offer more flexibility for destinations far from the stations, so the better option depends on your schedule and final destination.
Where can I check the latest Chicago to Aurora Metra schedule?
Use Metra’s official schedule and real-time train-tracking tools to check departure times, stops, and service alerts.
Final thoughts
The Metra Chicago to Aurora route provides a practical connection between downtown Chicago and Aurora through the BNSF Railway Line. Before travelling, confirm the train schedule, current fare, and station stops to help ensure a smooth journey.