The Metra BNSF Line is one of the busiest commuter rail routes in the Chicago metropolitan area, connecting Chicago Union Station with Aurora, Illinois. The line serves thousands of daily commuters and passes through several major suburbs, including Cicero, Berwyn, Brookfield, Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Lisle, Naperville, and Route 59 before reaching Aurora. Known for its frequent service and reliable schedule, the BNSF Line is a popular transportation option for commuters, students, and travelers throughout the Chicago region. Whether you’re planning a daily commute or a weekend trip, the Metra BNSF Schedule helps passengers stay informed about train times, station stops, and route information.
Passengers can also check the latest Metra Train Hours for additional departure information.
Metra BNSF Line Overview
The Metra BNSF Line operates between Chicago Union Station and Aurora Station, serving 26 stations along the route. The line provides regular weekday and weekend service, making it one of the most frequently used commuter rail corridors in the Metra network.
Before traveling, review the latest Metra Ticket Prices and fare information.
Metra BNSF Line Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Line Name | Metra BNSF Railway Line |
| Operator | Metra (service) / BNSF Railway (track owner and infrastructure) |
| Terminus (East) | Union Station, 500 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60661 |
| Terminus (West) | Aurora Transportation Center, Aurora, IL |
| Total Number of Stations | 26 |
| Line Length | ~37.5 miles |
| Travel Time (End to End) | Approx. 70–90 minutes depending on train type |
| Train Frequency | - Every 15–30 mins during peak hours |
| - Hourly during off-peak | |
| Service Days | Monday–Sunday (Reduced weekend service) |
| Key Suburban Hubs | Cicero, Berwyn, La Grange, Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Naperville, Aurora |
| Transfers at Union Station | CTA Blue & Red Lines, other Metra lines, Amtrak, Pace buses |
| Connections at Suburban Stations | Pace Bus services at Naperville, Aurora, Downers Grove, etc. |
| Fare Zones | Zones A through H |
| Special Services | Express trains during rush hours; bike and ADA-accessible cars available |
Metra BNSF Line Route Map
View the complete Metra Route Map to explore all stations and rail connections across the network.
Metra BNSF Line S2chedule
The latest Metra BNSF Schedule provides departure and arrival times for all stations on the route. Train frequencies vary throughout the day, with additional service available during peak commuting hours.
Metra BNSF Line First and Last Train
| Service | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | Around 4:00 AM–4:50 AM | Around 1:51 AM |
| Saturday | Around 5:00 AM–6:00 AM | Around 1:51 AM |
| Sunday | Around 5:00 AM–6:00 AM | Around 1:51 AM |
Metra BNSF Weekday Morning Train Schedule (Chicago–Aurora)
| Departure Time | Station | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4:50 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 5:54 AM |
| 5:20 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 6:24 AM |
| 5:50 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 6:54 AM |
| 6:20 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 7:24 AM |
| 6:50 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 7:54 AM |
| 7:20 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 8:24 AM |
Metra BNSF Weekday Afternoon and Evening Train Schedule (Chicago to Aurora)
| Departure Time | Station | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4:05 PM | Aurora | 5:08 PM |
| 4:35 PM | Aurora | 5:38 PM |
| 5:05 PM | Aurora | 6:08 PM |
| 5:35 PM | Aurora | 6:38 PM |
| 6:05 PM | Aurora | 7:08 PM |
| 6:35 PM | Aurora | 7:38 PM |
Metra BNSF Weekend Morning Train Schedule (Chicago to Aurora)
| Departure Time | Station | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|
| 5:00 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 6:04 AM |
| 5:30 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 6:34 AM |
| 6:00 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 7:04 AM |
| 6:30 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 7:34 AM |
| 7:00 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 8:04 AM |
| 7:30 AM | Ogilvie (Chicago) | 8:34 AM |
Metra BNSF Weekend Afternoon and Evening Train Schedule (Chicago to Aurora)
| Departure Time | Station | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4:00 PM | Aurora | 5:04 PM |
| 4:30 PM | Aurora | 5:34 PM |
| 5:00 PM | Aurora | 6:04 PM |
| 5:30 PM | Aurora | 6:34 PM |
| 6:00 PM | Aurora | 7:04 PM |
| 6:30 PM | Aurora | 7:34 PM |
Traveling through downtown Chicago? Read our detailed Chicago Union Station guide.
Passengers can also use the Metra App for ticket purchases and travel management.
Typical Metra BNSF Line Parking Availability
| Station | Parking Type |
|---|---|
| Aurora | Daily & Monthly Parking |
| Naperville | Daily & Permit Parking |
| Route 59 | Large Commuter Parking Lot |
| Lisle | Daily Parking Available |
| Downers Grove | Daily & Monthly Parking |
| Brookfield | Limited Daily Parking |
| Riverside | Limited Parking Available |
Metra BNSF Line Stations
- Ogilvie Transportation Center (Chicago)
- Chicago Union StationÂ
- Aurora
- Naperville
- Downers Grove
- Hinsdale
- LaGrange Road
- Brookfield
- Riverside
- Berwyn
- Western Springs
- La Grange
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The Metra BNSF Line is one of the busiest commuter rail routes in the Chicago metropolitan area. It connects Chicago Union Station with Aurora, serving communities across the western suburbs, including Cicero, Berwyn, Riverside, Brookfield, LaGrange, Western Springs, Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Westmont, Downers Grove, Lisle, Naperville, and Aurora.
The line is an important transportation option for people commuting between Chicago and the western suburbs for work, school, appointments, shopping, and other daily activities.
This guide covers the Metra BNSF Line stations, route, schedule, map, fares, parking, transfers, accessibility, train tracking, and other useful information.
What Is the Metra BNSF Line?
The BNSF Line is a Metra commuter rail service operating between Chicago Union Station and Aurora.
The route is operated under an agreement involving Metra and BNSF Railway, which owns and operates the railroad infrastructure used by the service. The line is one of Metra’s key western suburban routes.
The BNSF Line is particularly important for commuters because it serves several major suburban communities and provides direct rail access to downtown Chicago.
Metra BNSF Line at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Line Name | BNSF Line |
| Operator | Metra |
| Chicago Terminal | Chicago Union Station |
| Western Terminal | Aurora |
| Direction | West |
| Service Type | Commuter Rail |
| Major Suburbs Served | Berwyn, Brookfield, LaGrange, Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Lisle, Naperville, Aurora |
| Downtown Chicago Terminal | Union Station |
| Railroad Partner | BNSF Railway |
| Primary Purpose | Chicago–Western Suburban Commuter Service |
Metra BNSF Line Stations
The BNSF Line serves numerous stations between Chicago and Aurora. The complete route includes stations in Chicago and the western suburbs.
BNSF Line Station List
| # | Station | Community |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicago Union Station | Chicago |
| 2 | Halsted Street | Chicago |
| 3 | Western Avenue | Chicago |
| 4 | Cicero | Cicero |
| 5 | Berwyn | Berwyn |
| 6 | LaVergne | Berwyn |
| 7 | Harlem Avenue | Berwyn |
| 8 | Riverside | Riverside |
| 9 | Brookfield | Brookfield |
| 10 | Hollywood | Brookfield |
| 11 | Congress Park | Brookfield |
| 12 | LaGrange Road | LaGrange |
| 13 | LaGrange Stone Avenue | LaGrange |
| 14 | Western Springs | Western Springs |
| 15 | Hinsdale | Hinsdale |
| 16 | Highlands | Hinsdale |
| 17 | Clarendon Hills | Clarendon Hills |
| 18 | West Hinsdale | Hinsdale |
| 19 | Westmont | Westmont |
| 20 | Fairview Avenue | Downers Grove |
| 21 | Downers Grove Main Street | Downers Grove |
| 22 | Belmont | Downers Grove |
| 23 | Lisle | Lisle |
| 24 | Naperville | Naperville |
| 25 | Route 59 | Naperville |
| 26 | Aurora | Aurora |
Chicago Union Station
- Chicago Union Station is the eastern terminal of the BNSF Line.
- Passengers arriving in downtown Chicago can connect from Union Station to other transportation services and nearby downtown destinations.
- For many commuters, the BNSF Line provides a direct connection between their western suburban station and downtown Chicago.
Halsted Street Station
- Halsted Street is located near Chicago Union Station and provides BNSF service for passengers traveling to and from Chicago’s Near South/West Side areas.
- Its location makes it useful for passengers who do not need to travel all the way to Union Station.
Western Avenue Station
- Western Avenue is another Chicago station on the BNSF route.
- The station serves passengers traveling between western Chicago neighborhoods and the western suburbs.
Cicero Station
- The Cicero station serves passengers in the Cicero area.
- It is one of the early suburban-area stops on the BNSF Line when traveling west from downtown Chicago.
Berwyn Station
- Berwyn is an important BNSF Line station serving the City of Berwyn.
- The area has several BNSF stations, making Metra an important transportation option for residents commuting to Chicago.
LaVergne Station
- The LaVergne station is located in Berwyn.
- It provides another BNSF boarding point between Cicero and Harlem Avenue.
Harlem Avenue Station
- Harlem Avenue is a BNSF station serving the Berwyn area.
- It provides access to commuter rail service toward both Chicago and Aurora.
Riverside Station
- The Riverside station serves the Village of Riverside.
- The station is located west of Harlem Avenue and provides commuter service toward downtown Chicago and the western suburbs.
Brookfield Station
- Brookfield is one of several BNSF stations serving communities in the area.
- It provides convenient access to Metra commuter rail for residents traveling toward Chicago or farther west.
Hollywood Station
- The Hollywood station is located in Brookfield.
- It serves passengers traveling between the surrounding western suburbs and Chicago.
Congress Park Station
- Congress Park is another BNSF Line station in the Brookfield area.
- It is positioned between Hollywood and LaGrange-area stations.
LaGrange Road Station
- LaGrange Road is one of the major stations serving LaGrange.
- It provides BNSF service for commuters traveling to downtown Chicago and other western suburban communities.
LaGrange Stone Avenue Station
- The LaGrange Stone Avenue station is another BNSF stop serving LaGrange.
- Passengers should check the individual train schedule because not every train necessarily stops at every station.
Western Springs Station
- Western Springs serves the Village of Western Springs.
- The station provides commuter rail access to downtown Chicago as well as destinations farther west along the BNSF route.
Hinsdale Station
- The Hinsdale station serves the Village of Hinsdale.
- It is an important station for residents commuting to Chicago and is surrounded by a large suburban community.
Highlands Station
- The Highlands station serves the Highlands area of Hinsdale.
- It provides another commuter rail option for passengers in the Hinsdale area.
Clarendon Hills Station
- Clarendon Hills is a major BNSF station serving the western suburbs.
- The station provides access to downtown Chicago and other communities along the line.
West Hinsdale Station
- West Hinsdale provides another BNSF Line station for the Hinsdale area.
- It is located between Clarendon Hills and Westmont.
Westmont Station
- The Westmont station serves the Village of Westmont.
- It is located along the central-western portion of the BNSF route and is used by daily commuters as well as other passengers.
Fairview Avenue Station
- Fairview Avenue serves the Downers Grove area.
- It is one of the stations between Westmont and Downers Grove Main Street.
Downers Grove Main Street Station
- Downers Grove Main Street is one of the more prominent BNSF stations.
- The station is located near the downtown Downers Grove area and provides convenient access to local businesses and services.
Belmont Station
- The Belmont station serves the Downers Grove area.
- It provides another boarding point for commuters traveling toward Chicago or farther west.
Lisle Station
- Lisle serves the Village of Lisle.
- It is an important station for commuters traveling between the western suburbs and downtown Chicago.
Naperville Station
- The Naperville station is one of the major stops on the BNSF Line.
- Naperville is a large suburban community, and Metra provides an important connection between Naperville and Chicago.
- The station can be particularly busy during weekday commuting periods.
Route 59 Station
- The Route 59 station serves the Naperville area near Illinois Route 59.
- It provides commuter access for residents in the western suburbs and surrounding communities.
Aurora Station
- Aurora is the western terminal of the BNSF Line.
- Passengers traveling from Aurora to Chicago can take BNSF trains directly to Union Station.
- The station also serves as an important transportation point for the surrounding western suburbs.
Metra BNSF Line Route
The BNSF Line generally follows a westward route from Chicago Union Station toward Aurora.
A simplified route is:
Chicago Union Station
↓
Halsted Street
↓
Western Avenue
↓
Cicero
↓
Berwyn
↓
LaVergne
↓
Harlem Avenue
↓
Riverside
↓
Brookfield
↓
Hollywood
↓
Congress Park
↓
LaGrange Road
↓
LaGrange Stone Avenue
↓
Western Springs
↓
Hinsdale
↓
Highlands
↓
Clarendon Hills
↓
West Hinsdale
↓
Westmont
↓
Fairview Avenue
↓
Downers Grove Main Street
↓
Belmont
↓
Lisle
↓
Naperville
↓
Route 59
↓
Aurora
This route makes the BNSF Line an important rail connection between downtown Chicago and the western suburbs.
Metra BNSF Line Schedule
BNSF Line trains operate in both directions:
- Inbound: Aurora toward Chicago
- Outbound: Chicago toward Aurora
Weekday service is designed heavily around commuter demand, while weekend schedules follow different service patterns.
Because individual trains can make different numbers of stops, passengers should check the current schedule before traveling.
Metra provides current schedule information through its official rider-information tools.
Weekday BNSF Service
During weekday mornings, trains generally provide substantial service toward Chicago.
During afternoon and evening periods, trains provide service from downtown Chicago toward Aurora and other western suburban destinations.
Weekend BNSF Service
Weekend service is available, but train frequency and stopping patterns can differ from weekday operations.
Passengers traveling on Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday should check the current timetable rather than relying on weekday departure times.
BNSF Line Train Times
Travel time depends on the origin and destination and whether the train makes local or express stops.
For example, a trip from Chicago Union Station to Aurora takes longer than a trip from Chicago to nearby stations such as Berwyn or Riverside.
Travel time can also be affected by:
- Number of stops
- Train traffic
- Delays
- Track conditions
- Construction
- Weather
- Special events
For the most accurate travel time, use Metra’s current trip-planning and schedule tools.
Metra BNSF Line Map
The BNSF Line runs west from downtown Chicago through many established suburban communities.
Simplified BNSF Route Map
Chicago
↓
Cicero
↓
Berwyn
↓
Riverside
↓
Brookfield
↓
LaGrange
↓
Western Springs
↓
Hinsdale
↓
Clarendon Hills
↓
Westmont
↓
Downers Grove
↓
Lisle
↓
Naperville
↓
Route 59
↓
Aurora
The official Metra system map provides a more detailed view of the BNSF Line and its relationship to other Metra routes.
BNSF Line Fares
Metra fares are generally determined by the zones between a passenger’s origin and destination.
The cost can depend on:
- Starting station
- Destination station
- Ticket type
- Applicable fare product
- Current Metra fare structure
Metra offers different ticket options, including one-way and other passes.
Because fare policies and prices can change, passengers should use the current Metra fare information or fare calculator when planning a trip.
BNSF Line Ticket Options
Depending on the current fare structure, passengers may use:
- One-way tickets
- Day passes
- Monthly passes
- Regional fare products
- Other Metra ticket options
Passengers who commute regularly may want to compare available passes with individual ticket costs.
BNSF Line Parking
Many BNSF stations have parking facilities for commuters.
Parking arrangements vary by station and may include:
- Daily parking
- Permit parking
- Paid parking
- Free parking in some circumstances
- Limited parking availability
If you plan to drive to a station, check the current parking information for your specific station.
BNSF Line Accessibility
- Accessibility varies by station.
- Metra provides accessibility information for its stations, including information about accessible platforms and facilities.
- Passengers who use wheelchairs or have mobility requirements should check the current station information before traveling.
- It is particularly important to verify accessibility when planning a trip because construction, maintenance, or temporary conditions can affect station access.
BNSF Line Train Tracker
Metra provides real-time train information that passengers can use to monitor BNSF Line service.
The tracker can help passengers check:
- Upcoming departures
- Train status
- Train locations
- Delays
- Service alerts
- Estimated arrival information
Checking real-time information before leaving home can help commuters respond to unexpected delays.
BNSF Line Service Alerts
BNSF service can occasionally be affected by:
- Track maintenance
- Construction
- Severe weather
- Equipment problems
- Railroad incidents
- Special events
- Schedule changes
Passengers should check Metra’s current service alerts before traveling, especially during weekends and major events.
Metra BNSF Line Connections
The BNSF Line provides access to several transportation connections.
Chicago Union Station
- At Chicago Union Station, passengers can connect with other Metra services and regional transportation options.
- The station also provides convenient access to downtown Chicago.
CTA Connections
- Several stations and nearby locations provide connections to Chicago Transit Authority services. The exact transfer options depend on the station.
- Passengers should check the current CTA and Metra information when planning a multi-modal trip.
BNSF Line for Chicago Commuters
For people living in the western suburbs, the BNSF Line provides a direct commuter rail option into downtown Chicago.
Common commuter destinations include:
- Chicago Loop
- Union Station area
- Downtown offices
- Universities and colleges
- Medical facilities
- Government offices
- Shopping and entertainment areas
The line can reduce the need to drive into downtown Chicago, particularly for people whose destinations are near Union Station or other connecting transit services.
BNSF Line for Aurora Commuters
Aurora is the western endpoint of the BNSF Line.
Residents of Aurora and nearby communities can use Metra to travel toward:
- Naperville
- Lisle
- Downers Grove
- Hinsdale
- LaGrange
- Berwyn
- Chicago
The direct connection to Chicago makes the BNSF Line an important commuter option for the Aurora area.
Popular BNSF Line Stations
Some stations are especially useful because of their surrounding communities, downtown areas, parking facilities, or connections.
| Station | Community | Main Use |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Union Station | Chicago | Downtown Chicago terminal |
| Cicero | Cicero | Chicago-area suburban access |
| Berwyn | Berwyn | Western suburban commuting |
| Riverside | Riverside | Local suburban access |
| Brookfield | Brookfield | Western suburban commuting |
| LaGrange Road | LaGrange | Downtown LaGrange access |
| Western Springs | Western Springs | Local commuter access |
| Hinsdale | Hinsdale | Hinsdale-area commuters |
| Clarendon Hills | Clarendon Hills | Western suburban access |
| Westmont | Westmont | Westmont commuters |
| Downers Grove Main Street | Downers Grove | Downtown Downers Grove |
| Lisle | Lisle | Lisle-area commuters |
| Naperville | Naperville | Major suburban station |
| Route 59 | Naperville | Naperville/western area |
| Aurora | Aurora | Western terminal |
BNSF Line vs. Milwaukee District West Line
Both lines provide commuter service between Chicago and western suburbs, but their routes are different.
| Feature | BNSF Line | Milwaukee District West |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Terminal | Union Station | Union Station |
| Western Terminal | Aurora | Big Timber Road, Elgin |
| Major Communities | Berwyn, LaGrange, Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Naperville | Franklin Park, Bensenville, Schaumburg, Bartlett, Elgin |
| Direction | West | West |
| Major Destination | Aurora | Elgin |
| Railroad Association | BNSF Railway | Milwaukee District |
The best line for a passenger depends primarily on their starting point, destination, and the station closest to them.
Tips for Riding the Metra BNSF Line
- Check the Current Schedule – Schedules can change, so always verify the departure time for your specific trip.
- Check Your Train’s Stops – Not every train necessarily makes every station stop.
- Arrive Early – Give yourself enough time to park, purchase or activate your ticket, and reach the platform.
- Check Service Alerts – Look for delays, construction, and schedule changes before leaving.
- Use the Train Tracker – Real-time information can be especially useful during weekday commuting periods.
- Know Your Destination Station – Several communities have multiple BNSF stations, so verify the exact station before boarding.
- Keep Your Ticket Available – Have your ticket ready for inspection during the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Metra BNSF Line?
The BNSF Line is a Metra commuter rail route connecting Chicago Union Station and Aurora through Chicago’s western suburbs.
Where does the BNSF Line start?
The BNSF Line starts at Chicago Union Station.
Where does the BNSF Line end?
The western terminal is Aurora.
Does the BNSF Line go to Naperville?
Yes. Naperville and Route 59 are BNSF Line stations serving the Naperville area.
Does the BNSF Line go to Aurora?
Yes. Aurora is the western terminal of the BNSF Line.
Does BNSF Metra go to Chicago?
Yes. BNSF trains operate between Aurora and Chicago Union Station.
How many stations are on the BNSF Line?
The route has numerous stations between Chicago and Aurora, although the exact number of stations served by an individual train varies because some trains make limited stops.
How can I check BNSF Line train times?
Use Metra’s current schedule and trip-planning tools to search for trains based on your departure station, destination, and travel date.
Can I track a BNSF Metra train?
Yes. Metra provides real-time train tracking and service information for passengers.
Does the BNSF Line run on weekends?
Yes, BNSF service operates on weekends, although the schedule and frequency can differ from weekday service.
How much does the BNSF Line cost?
The fare depends on the origin, destination, ticket type, and current Metra fare structure. Use Metra’s current fare information to determine the exact price for your trip.
Final Thoughts
The Metra BNSF Line is a major commuter rail route connecting Chicago Union Station to Aurora and serving many western suburban communities along the way. Stations include Berwyn, Riverside, Brookfield, LaGrange, Western Springs, Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Westmont, Downers Grove, Lisle, Naperville, Route 59, and Aurora.
The line is widely used for commuting into downtown Chicago as well as for travel between western suburban communities.
