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.
Best Times to Travel on the Metra BNSF Line
Morning peak hours typically experience the highest passenger volume, especially between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM on weekdays. Travelers seeking a quieter journey may prefer mid-morning or early afternoon departures. Weekend services generally experience lower ridership except during major events and holidays.
Metra BNSF Line Parking Information
Many Metra BNSF Line stations provide parking facilities for daily commuters. Larger stations such as Aurora, Naperville, Route 59, Lisle, and Downers Grove offer dedicated commuter parking lots with daily and monthly parking options.
Parking fees vary by station and parking type. Most suburban stations charge approximately $1–$5 per day, while monthly parking permits may be available for frequent riders. Some stations also offer mobile payment options and self-service parking kiosks for added convenience.
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
Metra BNSF Line Nearby Attractions
Passengers traveling on the Metra BNSF Line can visit several popular attractions located near stations along the route.
- Chicago Union Station – Historic Chicago landmark and downtown attractions.
- Brookfield Station – Easy access to Brookfield Zoo.
- Riverside Station – Historic Riverside community and scenic parks.
- Hinsdale Station – Local shopping and dining district.
- Naperville Station – Riverwalk, downtown Naperville, and Centennial Beach.
- Aurora Station – Paramount Theatre, RiverEdge Park, and downtown Aurora.
Metra BNSF Line Service Alerts and Delays
The Metra BNSF Line generally operates on a reliable schedule. Still, train services may occasionally experience delays due to weather conditions, track maintenance, signal issues, mechanical problems, or increased passenger traffic during peak travel periods.
Passengers are encouraged to check for the latest service alerts before traveling, especially during severe weather events, holidays, or major public events in the Chicago metropolitan area. Temporary schedule adjustments and maintenance work may also affect train departure and arrival times.
Common Causes of Delays
- Severe weather conditions, including snow, ice, and thunderstorms
- Track maintenance and infrastructure upgrades
- Signal or equipment issues
- Freight train traffic on shared rail corridors
- High passenger volume during peak commuting hours
For the most accurate and up-to-date service information, passengers should review official Metra service alerts before starting their journey.
You May Also Like:
- North Central Service Line
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- Milwaukee District North Line Schedule
- Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center
FAQs
Q. What are the primary stops on the Metra BNSF Line schedule?
The BNSF Line operates between the Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago and the Aurora Stations served:
- Ogilvie Transportation Center (Chicago)
- Union Station (Chicago)
- Naperville
- Downers Grove
- LaGrange Road
- Aurora
Other stops: Brookfield, Riverside, Hinsdale, Western Springs, etc.
Q. What time do the trains leave Metra BNSF Line stations?
- The departure timing for each station and day is different. Weekday service starts early in the morning and continues through the rest of the day with a bolstered number of trains during rush hours. Weekend timetables are usually less frequent. Metra estimates the time based on a rolling average for that station and line.
Q. Do Metra BNSF Line stations have parking lots?
- Yes, there are park-and-ride facilities at most BNSF Line stations. Stops in places like Aurora, Naperville, and Downers Grove have plenty of parking available. The pattern of free and pay parking varies depending on the station. Like anywhere else, be sure to refer to individual stations regarding specific parking availability and cost.
Q. What’s the best way to access Metra BNSF Line stations from downtown Chicago?
- Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station can be accessed directly from downtown Chicago on foot (5-10minutes). There are also CTA buses and CTA trains, like the Blue Line or Brown Line, that run to them, which is convenient for both commuters and visitors.
Q. Are Metra BNSF Line stations accessible?
- Yes, the majority of BNSF Line stations are accessible to passengers with disabilities. Stations like Ogilvie, Aurora, and Naperville have elevators, ramp access, and wheelchair seating on trains. But still, yeah, you’d probably want to look for detailed information on such issues on the Metra website for whichever specific station.
Q. What is the address of the Metra BNSF Line terminal in Chicago?
- The Address of the Metra BNSF Line terminal in Chicago is 500 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60661.
