Metra Arlington Heights Station is a major commuter rail station in Arlington Heights, Illinois, served by the Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) Line. The station connects Arlington Heights with Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago and communities throughout the northwest suburbs, including Mount Prospect, Palatine, Barrington, Crystal Lake, Woodstock and Harvard.
The station is located at 45 W. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, IL. Metra’s station safety schedule confirms the address and identifies the station as part of the UP/NW line.
Arlington Heights is also an important station on the UP-NW corridor because it is located in a major suburban employment and residential area. Metra’s accessibility information lists Arlington Heights as a fully accessible station.
Metra Arlington Heights Station Schedule
Metra Arlington Heights Station schedule offers frequent Union Pacific Northwest Line trains with reliable weekday and weekend service.
Metra Arlington Heights Stations Weekday Schedule
| Time | Direction | Train # | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5:42 AM | Inbound | 602 | Local |
| 6:21 AM | Inbound | 604 | Local |
| 6:47 AM | Outbound | 603 | Local |
| 7:21 AM | Inbound | 610 | Local |
| 7:32 AM | Outbound | 605 | Local |
| 7:42 AM | Inbound | 612 | Local |
| 8:21 AM | Inbound | 616 | Local |
| 8:32 AM | Outbound | 607 | Local |
| 9:21 AM | Inbound | 618 | Local |
| 9:32 AM | Outbound | 609 | Local |
| 10:21 AM | Inbound | 620 | Local |
| 10:32 AM | Outbound | 611 | Local |
| 11:21 AM | Inbound | 622 | Local |
| 11:32 AM | Outbound | 613 | Local |
| 12:21 PM | Inbound | 624 | Local |
| 12:37 PM | Outbound | 615 | Local |
| 1:21 PM | Inbound | 626 | Local |
| 1:32 PM | Outbound | 617 | Local |
| 2:21 PM | Inbound | 628 | Local |
| 2:32 PM | Outbound | 619 | Local |
| 3:21 PM | Inbound | 630 | Local |
| 3:32 PM | Outbound | 623 | Local |
| 4:19 PM | Inbound | 632 | Local |
| 4:37 PM | Outbound | 625 | Local |
| 5:22 PM | Inbound | 634 | Local |
| 5:32 PM | Outbound | 629 | Local |
| 6:21 PM | Inbound | 636 | Local |
| 6:26 PM | Outbound | 631 | Local |
| 7:21 PM | Inbound | 638 | Local |
| 7:32 PM | Outbound | 633 | Local |
| 8:21 PM | Inbound | 640 | Local |
| 8:32 PM | Outbound | 635 | Local |
| 9:21 PM | Inbound | 642 | Local |
| 9:32 PM | Outbound | 637 | Local |
| 10:21 PM | Inbound | 644 | Local |
| 10:32 PM | Outbound | 639 | Local |
| 11:19 PM | Inbound | 646 | Local |
| 11:32 PM | Outbound | 641 | Local |
| 12:37 AM | Outbound | 643 | Local |
Metra Arlington Heights Stations Weekend Schedule
| Time | Direction | Train # | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6:47 AM | Outbound | 603 | Local |
| 7:32 AM | Outbound | 605 | Local |
| 8:32 AM | Outbound | 607 | Local |
| 9:32 AM | Outbound | 609 | Local |
| 10:32 AM | Outbound | 611 | Local |
| 11:32 AM | Outbound | 613 | Local |
| 12:37 PM | Outbound | 615 | Local |
| 1:32 PM | Outbound | 617 | Local |
| 2:32 PM | Outbound | 619 | Local |
| 3:32 PM | Outbound | 623 | Local |
| 4:37 PM | Outbound | 625 | Local |
| 5:32 PM | Outbound | 629 | Local |
| 6:26 PM | Outbound | 631 | Local |
| 7:32 PM | Outbound | 633 | Local |
| 8:32 PM | Outbound | 635 | Local |
| 9:32 PM | Outbound | 637 | Local |
| 10:32 PM | Outbound | 639 | Local |
| 11:32 PM | Outbound | 641 | Local |
| 12:37 AM | Outbound | 643 | Local |
| 6:47 AM | Inbound | 602 | Local |
| 7:32 AM | Inbound | 604 | Local |
| 8:32 AM | Inbound | 606 | Local |
| 9:32 AM | Inbound | 608 | Local |
| 10:32 AM | Inbound | 610 | Local |
| 11:32 AM | Inbound | 612 | Local |
| 12:37 PM | Inbound | 614 | Local |
| 1:32 PM | Inbound | 616 | Local |
| 2:32 PM | Inbound | 618 | Local |
| 3:32 PM | Inbound | 620 | Local |
| 4:37 PM | Inbound | 622 | Local |
| 5:32 PM | Inbound | 624 | Local |
| 6:26 PM | Inbound | 626 | Local |
| 7:32 PM | Inbound | 628 | Local |
| 8:32 PM | Inbound | 630 | Local |
| 9:32 PM | Inbound | 632 | Local |
| 10:32 PM | Inbound | 634 | Local |
| 11:32 PM | Inbound | 636 | Local |
Metra Arlington Heights Station Overview
Below is the station Overview.
Metra Arlington Heights Station Key Highlights
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | 45 W. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, IL |
| Line Served | Union Pacific Northwest (UP‑NW) |
| Fare Zone | 3 |
| Accessibility | Yes |
| Waiting Room Hours | 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. |
| Ticketing | Ticket vending machines (no full‑time agent) |
| Connecting Transit | Pace Bus Route 594 |
| Total Parking Lots | 12 |
| Total Parking Spaces | 1,944 |
| Daily‑Only Parking | 667 spaces |
| ADA Parking | 22 spaces |
| Distance to Ogilvie | ~ 22.9 miles |
| Average Weekday Ridership (2018) | 2,506 |
| Rank Among Non‑Downtown Stations | 5th busiest |
| Platforms / Tracks | 1 side + 1 island platform, 3 tracks |
| Opened / Rebuilt | Opened 1854, rebuilt 2000 |
Metra Arlington Heights Station Parking Information
- Address: 45 W. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, IL 60004
- Fare Zone: 3
- Line: Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW)
- Accessibility: Yes
- Ticketing: Ticket Vending Machines available; No Full-Time Agent
- Waiting room hours: 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Connecting Transit: Pace Route 594
- Platform Information: Platform 2 is usually used by Inbound trains, and Platform 1is used for Outbound trains
Metra Arlington Heights Station Nearby Attractions
- Arlington Heights Historical Museum
- Müller House
- Nathaniel Moore Banta House
- Wheeler-Magnus Round Barn
- Arlington Town Square
- Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
- Metropolis Ballroom
- Arlington Heights Memorial Library
- Lake Arlington
- North School Park
- Arlington Heights Park District
Metra Arlington Heights Stations List
- Harvard
- McHenry
- Woodstock
- Crystal Lake
- Pingree Road
- Cary
- Fox River Grove
- Barrington
- Palatine
- Arlington Park
- Arlington Heights
- Mount Prospect
- Cumberland
- Des Plaines
- Dee Road
- Park Ridge
- Edison Park
- Norwood Park
- Gladstone Park
- Jefferson Park
- Irving Park
- Clybourn
- Chicago Union Station
Metra Arlington Heights Station at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Arlington Heights |
| Metra Line | Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) |
| Address | 45 W. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, IL |
| City | Arlington Heights, Illinois |
| Fare Zone | Zone 3 |
| Milepost | 22.8 |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible |
| Inbound Direction | Ogilvie Transportation Center / Chicago |
| Outbound Direction | Harvard / McHenry |
| Nearby Stations | Mount Prospect, Arlington Park |
| Primary Service | UP-NW commuter rail |
| Downtown Terminal | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
Metra’s current fare-policy document places Arlington Heights at milepost 22.8 and Fare Zone 3 on the Union Pacific Northwest Line.
What Is Metra Arlington Heights Station?
Arlington Heights Station is a Metra commuter rail station serving the village of Arlington Heights and surrounding communities.
It is located on the Union Pacific Northwest Line, which runs northwest from Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center toward Harvard, with a branch from Crystal Lake to McHenry.
The UP-NW Line is one of Metra’s longest corridors, extending approximately 63 miles from downtown Chicago to Harvard.
For passengers traveling into Chicago, Arlington Heights provides direct commuter rail access to Ogilvie Transportation Center. For passengers traveling northwest, trains serve communities toward Harvard and, on applicable branch service, McHenry.
Where Is Arlington Heights Metra Station?
The station is located at:
45 W. Northwest Highway
Arlington Heights, IL
The station is in the central Arlington Heights area and is convenient for passengers traveling to and from downtown Arlington Heights.
Its location also provides access to local businesses, restaurants, offices, residential neighborhoods and community destinations.
Which Metra Line Serves Arlington Heights?
Arlington Heights is served by the Union Pacific Northwest Line, commonly abbreviated as UP-NW.
The primary route is:
Ogilvie Transportation Center → Harvard
The line also includes a branch between:
Crystal Lake → McHenry
The UP-NW corridor serves portions of Cook, Lake and McHenry counties.
Metra Arlington Heights Station Route
The UP-NW route from downtown Chicago toward Arlington Heights includes several stations.
The general sequence is:
Ogilvie Transportation Center → Clybourn → Irving Park → Jefferson Park → Gladstone Park → Norwood Park → Edison Park → Park Ridge → Dee Road → Des Plaines → Cumberland → Mount Prospect → Arlington Heights → Arlington Park → Palatine → Barrington → Fox River Grove → Cary → Pingree Road → Crystal Lake → Woodstock → Harvard
The UP-NW also has the McHenry branch from Crystal Lake toward McHenry.
Metra Arlington Heights Station Schedule
Metra UP-NW trains operate between Arlington Heights and downtown Chicago, as well as toward destinations farther northwest.
The schedule varies according to:
- Weekday or weekend
- Peak and off-peak periods
- Train number
- Express or local stopping pattern
- Construction
- Special service conditions
- Branch-line operations
Because individual trains can have different stopping patterns, passengers should check the current Metra timetable before traveling.
Inbound Trains to Chicago
Inbound trains travel toward:
Ogilvie Transportation Center
These trains are commonly used by Arlington Heights residents traveling to:
- Downtown Chicago
- The Loop
- Offices and businesses
- Universities
- Medical facilities
- Tourist attractions
Outbound Trains From Arlington Heights
Outbound UP-NW trains travel toward destinations such as:
- Arlington Park
- Palatine
- Barrington
- Fox River Grove
- Cary
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- Harvard
Some service also continues from Crystal Lake toward McHenry on the branch.
Arlington Heights Metra to Chicago
Passengers traveling from Arlington Heights to downtown Chicago can take an inbound UP-NW train toward Ogilvie Transportation Center.
A typical route is:
Arlington Heights → Mount Prospect → Des Plaines → Park Ridge → Edison Park → Chicago
However, the actual stopping pattern varies by train.
Metra’s UP-NW corridor includes express service in the section between Clybourn and Palatine, so passengers should review the individual train schedule before boarding.
Arlington Heights Metra to Harvard
Passengers traveling northwest from Arlington Heights can take a UP-NW train toward Harvard.
The route continues through:
- Arlington Park
- Palatine
- Barrington
- Fox River Grove
- Cary
- Pingree Road
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- Harvard
The exact stopping pattern depends on the train.
Arlington Heights Metra to Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake is one of the important destinations west of Arlington Heights on the UP-NW Line.
Passengers can travel from Arlington Heights through:
Arlington Park → Palatine → Barrington → Fox River Grove → Cary → Pingree Road → Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake is also the connection point for the UP-NW branch serving McHenry.
Arlington Heights Metra to McHenry
McHenry is served by the Crystal Lake–McHenry branch of the UP-NW Line.
Passengers traveling from Arlington Heights to McHenry should check the current schedule carefully because branch service operates differently from the main UP-NW route.
The McHenry branch is connected to the main line at Crystal Lake. Metra’s UP-NW information identifies the branch as extending north from Crystal Lake to McHenry.
Arlington Heights Metra Station Platform Information
During non-rush periods, Metra’s accessibility guide states that:
- Inbound trains toward Chicago normally use the north platforms.
- Outbound trains normally use the south platforms.
During peak periods, multiple tracks may be used because of the larger number of trains.
Passengers should always follow station announcements and posted signs because platform assignments can change.
Platform Tip
Before boarding:
- Check the train’s destination.
- Confirm the departure time.
- Listen for announcements.
- Check the platform.
- Make sure the train serves your destination.
Is Arlington Heights Metra Station Accessible?
Yes. Arlington Heights Station is fully accessible according to Metra’s accessibility guide.
Metra’s accessibility map also identifies Arlington Heights as an accessible station on the UP-NW Line.
Accessibility can be important for passengers using:
- Wheelchairs
- Mobility devices
- Strollers
- Other accessibility equipment
Passengers with specific accessibility requirements should verify current station conditions before traveling.
Metra Arlington Heights Station Parking
Parking is available in the Arlington Heights station area, but parking rules and management can change.
Metra explains that parking at many suburban stations is managed by the municipality rather than directly by Metra. Local parking regulations, permit requirements, daily rates and availability therefore vary by station.
Arlington Heights Parking Tips
If you plan to drive to the station:
- Check current parking regulations.
- Confirm whether daily or permit parking applies.
- Arrive early during weekday peak periods.
- Follow posted parking restrictions.
- Allow enough time to walk from the parking area to the platform.
- Check current local parking information before leaving.
Metra provides a dedicated parking-map resource for Arlington Heights Station.
Metra Arlington Heights Station Fares
Arlington Heights is in Fare Zone 3 on the UP-NW Line. Metra’s current fare policy lists the station at milepost 22.8 and assigns it to Zone 3.
The amount you pay depends on your origin and destination zones and the ticket type.
Metra fare products can include:
- One-Way Tickets
- Day Passes
- Day Pass 5-Packs
- Monthly Passes
- Reduced-fare options for eligible riders
Metra’s fare information states that fares are calculated according to the zones traveled between the selected origin and destination.
Arlington Heights to Chicago Fare
For a trip from Arlington Heights to downtown Chicago, the applicable fare is based on travel between Zone 3 and Zone 1.
Because Metra fares can change, passengers should use the current fare calculator rather than relying on an older price displayed on another website.
Buying Metra Tickets at Arlington Heights
Passengers should check the current station ticketing facilities and available mobile-ticket options before traveling.
Metra supports mobile ticketing through the Ventra app for applicable ticket products.
Common ticket options include:
- One-way tickets
- Day passes
- Monthly passes
- Weekend fare products
Metra’s fare information explains that Ventra mobile tickets must be activated and used according to the applicable validity period.
Metra Arlington Heights Train Tracker
A train tracker is useful for checking current service before traveling.
Passengers can use Metra’s real-time information to monitor:
- Train location
- Estimated arrival
- Departure information
- Delays
- Service alerts
- Train direction
This can be especially helpful during weekday rush periods, severe weather, construction or unexpected operational disruptions.
Metra provides a real-time map and service-alert tools through its official rider-information resources.
Arlington Heights Metra Station for Daily Commuters
Arlington Heights Station is an important commuter station for people traveling between the northwest suburbs and downtown Chicago.
A typical weekday commute may look like:
- Arrive at Arlington Heights Station.
- Check the current UP-NW train status.
- Purchase or activate a ticket.
- Confirm the platform.
- Board an inbound train.
- Travel to Ogilvie Transportation Center.
- Continue to the final destination by walking, CTA, bus, taxi or another transportation option.
For the return journey, passengers board an outbound UP-NW train toward Arlington Heights or another appropriate northwest-suburban destination.
Arlington Heights Station for Visitors
Visitors can also use the station to reach Arlington Heights without driving.
The station provides access to the central Arlington Heights area, including:
- Downtown Arlington Heights
- Restaurants
- Shopping areas
- Local businesses
- Offices
- Community facilities
- Entertainment destinations
For visitors arriving from Chicago, the basic route is:
Ogilvie Transportation Center → UP-NW Line → Arlington Heights
Popular Destinations Near Arlington Heights Station
Downtown Arlington Heights
The station is located close to the downtown Arlington Heights business and commercial district.
Visitors can find restaurants, shops, offices and local services in the surrounding area.
Arlington Park Area
Arlington Park Station is located west of Arlington Heights on the UP-NW Line and serves the Arlington Park area.
Mount Prospect
Mount Prospect is the nearest UP-NW station east of Arlington Heights.
Palatine
Palatine is the next major UP-NW station west of Arlington Park and provides another important suburban connection.
Arlington Heights Station Nearby Metra Stations
The stations surrounding Arlington Heights include:
| Station | Direction | Line |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Prospect | East | UP-NW |
| Arlington Heights | — | UP-NW |
| Arlington Park | West | UP-NW |
| Palatine | West | UP-NW |
| Des Plaines | East | UP-NW |
Metra’s accessibility guide lists Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, Arlington Park and Palatine as accessible UP-NW stations.
Arlington Heights vs. Arlington Park Metra Station
These are separate stations on the same UP-NW Line.
| Feature | Arlington Heights | Arlington Park |
|---|---|---|
| Line | UP-NW | UP-NW |
| Fare Zone | Zone 3 | Zone 3 |
| Location | Central Arlington Heights | Arlington Park area |
| Chicago Direction | Inbound | Inbound |
| Harvard Direction | Outbound | Outbound |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible | Fully accessible |
| Downtown Arlington Heights Access | Convenient | Less direct |
Both stations are in Fare Zone 3 according to Metra’s current UP-NW fare-zone table.
Arlington Heights vs. Mount Prospect Metra Station
Mount Prospect is located east of Arlington Heights on the UP-NW Line.
| Feature | Arlington Heights | Mount Prospect |
|---|---|---|
| Line | UP-NW | UP-NW |
| Fare Zone | 3 | 3 |
| Direction to Chicago | East | East |
| Direction to Harvard | West | West |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible | Fully accessible |
| Downtown Area | Arlington Heights | Mount Prospect |
Metra’s current fare-zone table places both Arlington Heights and Mount Prospect in Zone 3.
Arlington Heights Station and the UP-NW Line
Arlington Heights occupies an important position on the UP-NW corridor.
Metra’s system information groups Arlington Heights and Arlington Park within the same fare-zone market and identifies this section as an important employment and transportation area.
The UP-NW Line also provides connections to several major northwest-suburban communities, including:
- Des Plaines
- Mount Prospect
- Arlington Heights
- Palatine
- Barrington
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- Harvard
This makes Arlington Heights useful for both traditional Chicago-bound commuters and reverse commuters traveling between suburban communities.
Travel Tips for Metra Arlington Heights Station
1. Check the train direction
For Chicago, choose an inbound train toward Ogilvie Transportation Center.
For northwest destinations, choose an outbound train toward Harvard or the appropriate destination.
2. Check the stopping pattern
Not every UP-NW train necessarily makes every stop.
3. Arrive early
Metra recommends allowing enough time to park, purchase a ticket and reach the platform before departure. Timetable times represent departure times from the station.
4. Check service alerts
Construction, weather and operational issues can affect service.
5. Check the platform
Platform assignments can vary during peak periods.
6. Keep your ticket ready
If you use a mobile ticket, keep your phone charged and make sure the active ticket can be displayed when requested.
7. Check weekend service
Weekend schedules can differ from weekday schedules, so review the timetable for your travel date.
Arlington Heights Metra Station and Chicago Transportation
Passengers arriving at Ogilvie Transportation Center can continue their journey through downtown Chicago using:
- Walking
- CTA trains
- CTA buses
- Rideshare
- Taxis
- Other local transportation
The UP-NW Line therefore provides a direct commuter rail connection between Arlington Heights and Chicago’s downtown transportation network.
Why Arlington Heights Metra Station Is Important
Arlington Heights Station is an important station on the Union Pacific Northwest Line because it combines:
- Direct service to downtown Chicago
- Connections toward Harvard
- Access to the northwest suburbs
- Zone 3 fare classification
- Full accessibility
- Central Arlington Heights location
- Access to local businesses and services
The station is also part of one of Metra’s longest commuter rail corridors, with the UP-NW Line extending approximately 63 miles between Chicago and Harvard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metra Arlington Heights Station
Is Arlington Heights a Metra station?
Yes. Arlington Heights is a Metra station on the Union Pacific Northwest Line.
What Metra line serves Arlington Heights?
The Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) Line serves Arlington Heights.
What is the address of Arlington Heights Metra Station?
The station is located at 45 W. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, IL.
What fare zone is Arlington Heights Station?
Arlington Heights is in Fare Zone 3 on the UP-NW Line.
Is Arlington Heights Metra Station accessible?
Yes. Metra lists Arlington Heights as a fully accessible station.
Can I take Metra from Arlington Heights to Chicago?
Yes. Take an inbound UP-NW train toward Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Can I take Metra from Arlington Heights to Harvard?
Yes. Outbound UP-NW service operates toward Harvard, although passengers should check the specific train’s stopping pattern.
Can I take Metra from Arlington Heights to Crystal Lake?
Yes. Crystal Lake is served by the UP-NW main line west of Arlington Heights.
Can I take Metra from Arlington Heights to McHenry?
McHenry is on the UP-NW branch from Crystal Lake. Passengers should check the current timetable because branch service has a different operating pattern from the main line.
What stations are near Arlington Heights?
Mount Prospect is east of Arlington Heights, while Arlington Park is west. Palatine is farther west.
Does Arlington Heights Metra Station have parking?
Yes, parking is available in the station area. Parking rules and management are subject to local regulations and can change. Metra provides a station-specific parking map.
How do I check the Arlington Heights Metra schedule?
Use the current UP-NW timetable and Metra’s real-time service information for your specific travel date and time.
Can I buy Metra tickets through the Ventra app?
Yes. Metra offers mobile ticketing through the Ventra app for applicable fare products.
Is Arlington Heights Station close to downtown Arlington Heights?
Yes. The station is centrally located in Arlington Heights and provides convenient access to the downtown area.
Final Thoughts
Metra Arlington Heights Station is an important Union Pacific Northwest Line station connecting Arlington Heights with downtown Chicago and communities throughout the northwest suburbs. Located at 45 W. Northwest Highway, the station is in Fare Zone 3 and is classified as fully accessible by Metra.
The station provides inbound service toward Ogilvie Transportation Center and outbound access toward Harvard, with the UP-NW branch continuing from Crystal Lake to McHenry. Its central location also makes it useful for commuters, students, workers and visitors traveling to or from Arlington Heights.
Before traveling, passengers should check the latest Metra schedule, train status, platform information, fares, parking rules and service alerts, as these details can change.
