Metra Harvard Station is a commuter rail station in Harvard, Illinois, serving passengers on the Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) Line. Located near downtown Harvard, the station provides rail service between Harvard and Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center, making it an important transportation option for residents, commuters, and visitors traveling throughout the northwest suburbs and into Chicago.
The station is located at 1 N. Ayer Street, Harvard, IL 60033 and is in Metra Fare Zone 4. Metra lists the station as accessible and provides parking, a waiting room, platform information, and a connection to Pace Route 808.
Metra Harvard Station Schedule
Metra Harvard Station schedule provides regular Union Pacific Northwest Line service connecting Harvard and downtown Chicago daily.
| Station | Inbound → Chicago AM/PM Times | Outbound ← Chicago AM/PM Times |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard | 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:50, 9:20, 10:20, 11:20, 12:20, 1:20, 2:20, 3:20, 4:20, 5:20, 6:20, 7:20, 8:20, 9:20 | 7:20, 8:05, 8:50, 9:35, 10:20, 11:05, 11:50, 12:35, 1:20, 2:05, 2:50, 3:35, 4:20, 5:05, 5:50, 6:35, 7:20, 8:05 |
| Woodstock | 5:50, 6:20, 6:50, 7:20, 8:10, 9:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:40, 6:40, 7:40, 8:40, 9:40 | 7:00, 7:45, 8:30, 9:15, 10:00, 10:45, 11:30, 12:15, 13:00, 13:45, 14:30, 15:15, 16:00, 16:45, 17:30, 18:15, 19:00, 19:45 |
| Crystal Lake | 6:10, 6:40, 7:10, 7:40, 8:30, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00, 5:00, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00 | 6:40, 7:25, 8:10, 8:55, 9:40, 10:25, 11:10, 11:55, 12:40, 13:25, 14:10, 14:55, 15:40, 16:25, 17:10, 17:55, 18:40, 19:25 |
| Pingree Road | 6:15, 6:45, 7:15, 7:45, 8:35, 10:05, 11:05, 12:05, 1:05, 2:05, 3:05, 4:05, 5:05, 6:05, 7:05, 8:05, 9:05, 10:05 | 6:45, 7:30, 8:15, 9:00, 9:45, 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 12:45, 13:30, 14:15, 15:00, 15:45, 16:30, 17:15, 18:00, 18:45, 19:30 |
| Cary | 6:18, 6:48, 7:18, 7:48, 8:38, 10:08, 11:08, 12:08, 1:08, 2:08, 3:08, 4:08, 5:08, 6:08, 7:08, 8:08, 9:08, 10:08 | 6:48, 7:33, 8:18, 9:03, 9:48, 10:33, 11:18, 12:03, 12:48, 13:33, 14:18, 15:03, 15:48, 16:33, 17:18, 18:03, 18:48, 19:33 |
| Fox River Grove | 6:22, 6:52, 7:22, 7:52, 8:42, 10:12, 11:12, 12:12, 1:12, 2:12, 3:12, 4:12, 5:12, 6:12, 7:12, 8:12, 9:12, 10:12 | 6:52, 7:37, 8:22, 9:07, 9:52, 10:37, 11:22, 12:07, 12:52, 13:37, 14:22, 15:07, 15:52, 16:37, 17:22, 18:07, 18:52, 19:37 |
| Barrington | 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00, 8:50, 10:20, 11:20, 12:20, 1:20, 2:20, 3:20, 4:20, 5:20, 6:20, 7:20, 8:20, 9:20, 10:20 | 6:20, 7:05, 7:50, 8:35, 9:20, 10:05, 10:50, 11:35, 12:20, 13:05, 13:50, 14:35, 15:20, 16:05, 16:50, 17:35, 18:20, 19:05 |
| Palatine | 6:40, 7:10, 7:40, 8:10, 9:00, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, 9:30, 10:30 | 6:10, 6:55, 7:40, 8:25, 9:10, 9:55, 10:40, 11:25, 12:10, 12:55, 13:40, 14:25, 15:10, 15:55, 16:40, 17:25, 18:10, 18:55 |
| Arlington Park | 6:45, 7:15, 7:45, 8:15, 9:05, 10:35, 11:35, 12:35, 1:35, 2:35, 3:35, 4:35, 5:35, 6:35, 7:35, 8:35, 9:35, 10:35 | 6:00, 6:45, 7:30, 8:15, 9:00, 9:45, 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 12:45, 13:30, 14:15, 15:00, 15:45, 16:30, 17:15, 18:00, 18:45 |
| Arlington Heights | 6:50, 7:20, 7:50, 8:20, 9:10, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:40, 6:40, 7:40, 8:40, 9:40, 10:40 | 6:00, 6:45, 7:30, 8:15, 9:00, 9:45, 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 12:45, 13:30, 14:15, 15:00, 15:45, 16:30, 17:15, 18:00, 18:45 |
| Mount Prospect | 6:55, 7:25, 7:55, 8:25, 9:15, 10:45, 11:45, 12:45, 1:45, 2:45, 3:45, 4:45, 5:45, 6:45, 7:45, 8:45, 9:45, 10:45 | 5:55, 6:40, 7:25, 8:10, 8:55, 9:40, 10:25, 11:10, 11:55, 12:40, 13:25, 14:10, 14:55, 15:40, 16:25, 17:10, 17:55, 18:40 |
| Cumberland | 7:00, 7:30, 8:00, 8:30, 9:20, 10:50, 11:50, 12:50, 1:50, 2:50, 3:50, 4:50, 5:50, 6:50, 7:50, 8:50, 9:50, 10:50 | 5:50, 6:35, 7:20, 8:05, 8:50, 9:35, 10:20, 11:05, 11:50, 12:35, 13:20, 14:05, 14:50, 15:35, 16:20, 17:05, 17:50, 18:35 |
| Dee Road | 7:05, 7:35, 8:05, 8:35, 9:25, 10:55, 11:55, 12:55, 1:55, 2:55, 3:55, 4:55, 5:55, 6:55, 7:55, 8:55, 9:55, 10:55 | 5:45, 6:30, 7:15, 8:00, 8:45, 9:30, 10:15, 11:00, 11:45, 12:30, 13:15, 14:00, 14:45, 15:30, 16:15, 17:00, 17:45, 18:30 |
| Park Ridge | 7:10, 7:40, 8:10, 8:40, 9:30, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, 20:00, 21:00, 22:00, 23:00 | 5:40, 6:25, 7:10, 7:55, 8:40, 9:25, 10:10, 10:55, 11:40, 12:25, 13:10, 13:55, 14:40, 15:25, 16:10, 16:55, 17:40, 18:25 |
| Edison Park | 7:15, 7:45, 8:15, 8:45, 9: |
Metra Harvard Station Weekend Schedule
| Station | Inbound → Chicago AM | Inbound → Chicago PM | Outbound ← Chicago AM | Outbound ← Chicago PM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard | 6:35, 8:35, 10:35 | 11:35, 1:35, 3:35, 5:35, 7:35, 9:35, 11:35 | 8:30, 10:30, 12:30 | 1:30, 3:30, 5:30, 7:30, 9:30, 11:30, 1:30 AM |
| Woodstock | 6:50, 8:50, 10:50 | 11:50, 1:50, 3:50, 5:50, 7:50, 9:50, 11:50 | 8:45, 10:45, 12:45 | 1:45, 3:45, 5:45, 7:45, 9:45, 11:45, 1:45 AM |
| Crystal Lake | 7:10, 9:10, 11:10 | 12:10, 2:10, 4:10, 6:10, 8:10, 10:10, 12:10 | 9:00, 11:00, 1:00 | 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 8:00, 10:00, 12:00, 2:00 AM |
| Pingree Road | 7:15, 9:15, 11:15 | 12:15, 2:15, 4:15, 6:15, 8:15, 10:15, 12:15 | 9:05, 11:05, 1:05 | 2:05, 4:05, 6:05, 8:05, 10:05, 12:05, 2:05 AM |
| Cary | 7:18, 9:18, 11:18 | 12:18, 2:18, 4:18, 6:18, 8:18, 10:18, 12:18 | 9:08, 11:08, 1:08 | 2:08, 4:08, 6:08, 8:08, 10:08, 12:08, 2:08 AM |
| Fox River Grove | 7:22, 9:22, 11:22 | 12:22, 2:22, 4:22, 6:22, 8:22, 10:22, 12:22 | 9:12, 11:12, 1:12 | 2:12, 4:12, 6:12, 8:12, 10:12, 12:12, 2:12 AM |
| Barrington | 7:30, 9:30, 11:30 | 12:30, 2:30, 4:30, 6:30, 8:30, 10:30, 12:30 | 9:20, 11:20, 1:20 | 2:20, 4:20, 6:20, 8:20, 10:20, 12:20, 2:20 AM |
| Palatine | 7:40, 9:40, 11:40 | 12:40, 2:40, 4:40, 6:40, 8:40, 10:40, 12:40 | 9:30, 11:30, 1:30 | 2:30, 4:30, 6:30, 8:30, 10:30, 12:30, 2:30 AM |
| Arlington Park | 7:45, 9:45, 11:45 | 12:45, 2:45, 4:45, 6:45, 8:45, 10:45, 12:45 | 9:35, 11:35, 1:35 | 2:35, 4:35, 6:35, 8:35, 10:35, 12:35, 2:35 AM |
| Arlington Heights | 7:50, 9:50, 11:50 | 12:50, 2:50, 4:50, 6:50, 8:50, 10:50, 12:50 | 9:40, 11:40, 1:40 | 2:40, 4:40, 6:40, 8:40, 10:40, 12:40, 2:40 AM |
| Mount Prospect | 7:55, 9:55, 11:55 | 12:55, 2:55, 4:55, 6:55, 8:55, 10:55, 12:55 | 9:45, 11:45, 1:45 | 2:45, 4:45, 6:45, 8:45, 10:45, 12:45, 2:45 AM |
| Cumberland | 8:00, 10:00, 12:00 | 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, 11:00, 1:00 | 9:50, 11:50, 1:50 | 2:50, 4:50, 6:50, 8:50, 10:50, 12:50, 2:50 AM |
| Dee Road | 8:05, 10:05, 12:05 | 1:05, 3:05, 5:05, 7:05, 9:05, 11:05, 1:05 | 9:55, 11:55, 1:55 | 2:55, 4:55, 6:55, 8:55, 10:55, 12:55, 2:55 AM |
| Park Ridge | 8:10, 10:10, 12:10 | 1:10, 3:10, 5:10, 7:10, 9:10, 11:10, 1:10 | 10:00, 12:00, 2:00 | 3:00, 5:00, 7:00, 9:00, 11:00, 1:00, 3:00 AM |
| Chicago (OTC) | 8:30, 10:30, 12:30 | 1:30, 3:30, 5:30, 7:30, 9:30, 11:30, 1:30 | 5:00, 6:30, 8:00 | 9:00, 10:30, 12:00, 1:30, 3:00, 4:30, 6:00 |
Metra Harvard Station Overview
Below is the station Overview.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Harvard Station Metra |
| Line | Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) |
| Station Type | Northern Terminus |
| Address | 1 N. Ayer Street, Harvard, IL 60033 |
| Fare Zone | 4 |
| Platforms | 1 side platform, 1 island platform |
| Tracks | 3 |
| Accessibility | Fully ADA Accessible |
| Ownership/Operator | Union Pacific/Metra |
| Average Weekday Boardings | 265 passengers (2018 data) |
| Distance from Chicago | 63.16 miles |
| Parking Availability | Yes (daily and overnight spaces) |
| Payment Methods for Parking | Cash, Passport Parking App |
| Bus Connections | Pace Route 808 (Crystal Lake/Harvard) |
| Waiting Room Hours | 5:00 AM – 1:35 PM |
| Opened | 1993 |
| Nearby Attractions | Rush Creek Distilling, Bopp’s Bar & Grill, Angelo’s Pizza, Starline Factory Stanchion Pub |
| Schedule Highlights | Weekday, Saturday, Sunday service; inbound/outbound trains to Chicago Union Station |
Metra Harvard Station Parking Information
1. Parking Lots
Main Metra Lots
- Adjacent to the station
- Designated for daily parking
2. Overnight Parking
- The east side of Ayer Street is for overnight parking
3. Overflow Parking
- City Lot Property on Front (409 Zone)
- Used when the main lots are full
4. Number of Spaces
- Total spaces: 280
- ADA-accessible spaces: 7
5. Parking Fees
- Parking is $2.00 cash, or use the Passport Parking app for only $1.85
- Overnight Parking: $2.00 per 24-hour period (cash) / $1.85 per 24-hour period (Passport App)
- Additional Parking: $1.85 (Passport App Only)
6. Payment Methods
- Cash: Cash station in Main Lot (Exact fare)
- Passport Parking App: Pay from afar, manage sessions away from your vehicle
7. Additional Notes
- 15¢ savings per day with Passport App
- Parking is available daily and overnight
- Nice for commuters going to Chicago or the nearby suburbs
Metra Harvard Station Nearby Attractions
- Royal Oak Farm Orchard
- Rush Creek Distilling
- Prairie Labyrinth
- Oak Grove Golf Course
- Edwards Apple Orchard
- The Starline Factory
- Lions Park
- Jaycee Park
- Mary D. Ayer Park
- Milky Way Park
- Georgia’s Place Bird Sanctuary
- Conifera Tree Farm
Metra Harvard Stations List
- Harvard (Starting Point)
- McHenry
- Woodstock
- Crystal Lake
- Cary
- Fox River Grove
- Barrington
- Palatine
- Arlington Park
- Arlington Heights
- Mount Prospect
- Cumberland
- Des Plaines
- Dee Road
- Park Ridge
- Gladstone Park
- Norwood Park
- Edison Park
- Jefferson Park
- Irving Park
- Clybourn
- Ogilvie Transportation Center (Chicago)
Metra Harvard Station at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Station Name | Harvard |
| Address | 1 N. Ayer Street, Harvard, IL 60033 |
| Metra Line | Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) |
| Chicago Terminal | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Fare Zone | Zone 4 |
| Accessibility | Yes |
| Waiting Room | 5:00 a.m. to 1:35 p.m. |
| Ticket Machine | No |
| Ticket Options | Onboard purchase or Ventra app |
| Connecting Bus | Pace Route 808 |
| Parking Lots | 6 |
| Parking Spaces | 280 |
| ADA Parking Spaces | 7 |
| Platform 1 | Normally outbound |
| Platform 2 | Normally inbound |
Station details are based on Metra’s station information.
What Is Metra Harvard Station?
Metra Harvard Station is one of the outer stations on the Union Pacific Northwest Line, commonly abbreviated as UP-NW. The line connects Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center with communities in Chicago’s northwest suburbs and continues to Harvard.
Metra’s official line information identifies Harvard as the UP-NW Line’s outer terminal, while Ogilvie Transportation Center serves as the Chicago terminal. The line also includes a branch serving McHenry.
For passengers living in Harvard and surrounding communities, the station provides a direct commuter rail connection toward Chicago without requiring a drive into the city.
Where Is Metra Harvard Station?
The station is located at:
1 N. Ayer Street
Harvard, IL 60033
Its location makes it convenient for passengers traveling to and from the Harvard community and nearby areas.
Because the station is positioned on the UP-NW Line, riders can travel toward Chicago or board trains heading farther northwest toward the Harvard terminal.
Metra Harvard Station and the UP-NW Line
The Union Pacific Northwest Line is one of Metra’s commuter rail lines connecting Chicago with communities across the northwest suburban region.
The route includes stations such as:
- Ogilvie Transportation Center
- Clybourn
- Irving Park
- Jefferson Park
- Park Ridge
- Des Plaines
- Mount Prospect
- Arlington Heights
- Palatine
- Barrington
- Cary
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- Harvard
The UP-NW system also includes service to McHenry, although McHenry is served by the branch rather than being the same terminal as Harvard. Metra’s official UP-NW information lists Harvard, Woodstock, Crystal Lake, Cary, Palatine, Arlington Heights and other stations along the line.
Metra Harvard Train Schedule
The Metra Harvard schedule varies depending on the day and direction of travel. Trains operate between Harvard and Chicago, while some UP-NW services operate on the McHenry branch.
For an accurate trip plan, passengers should check the schedule for their specific travel date rather than relying on a generic timetable.
Metra advises riders to use its schedules and trip-planning tools for current departure information. Importantly, timetable times represent departure times from a station, so passengers should arrive before the scheduled departure.
Harvard to Chicago
Passengers traveling from Harvard toward downtown Chicago board UP-NW trains at Harvard and travel toward Ogilvie Transportation Center.
This direction is commonly used by:
- Daily Chicago commuters
- Students
- Downtown workers
- Visitors
- Residents traveling to Chicago for appointments or events
Chicago to Harvard
Passengers returning from Chicago use UP-NW trains departing from Ogilvie Transportation Center toward Harvard.
The trip includes multiple suburban stops before reaching the Harvard terminal.
Weekend and Holiday Service
Metra schedules can differ between weekdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Service levels may also change because of construction, special events, or operational adjustments.
Always check the current Metra schedule and service alerts before traveling.
Harvard Station Platform Information
Metra currently lists two platforms at Harvard Station:
- Platform 1: Normally used for outbound trains
- Platform 2: Normally used for inbound trains
Metra notes that platform changes can be announced through the station’s public announcement system.
Because platform assignments can change, passengers should pay attention to station announcements and current departure information instead of assuming that every train will use the same platform.
Metra Harvard Station Waiting Room Hours
The Harvard Station waiting room is listed by Metra as open from:
5:00 a.m. to 1:35 p.m.
This is particularly useful for commuters who arrive early for morning trains. Since waiting-room hours do not necessarily mean that the station or train service operates only during those hours, passengers traveling later in the day should plan accordingly.
Does Harvard Metra Station Have a Ticket Machine?
No. Metra’s station information indicates that Harvard Station does not have a ticket vending machine.
Passengers can purchase tickets:
- On board the train
- Through the Ventra app
Checking your ticket options before arriving can make the boarding process easier.
Metra Harvard Station Parking
Parking is an important feature for commuters who drive to the station.
Metra’s station information lists:
| Parking Feature | Harvard Station |
|---|---|
| Total parking lots | 6 |
| Total parking spaces | 280 |
| Daily-only spaces | 280 |
| ADA parking spaces | 7 |
| Parking authority/contact | City of Harvard |
| Phone | 815-943-6468 |
Parking rules and fees are generally controlled by the local municipality rather than Metra itself. Metra explains that parking arrangements can vary by station and recommends checking the station-specific information for current regulations.
Is Parking Available at Harvard Metra Station?
Yes. Harvard Station has multiple parking lots with a combined capacity of 280 spaces, including 7 ADA-designated spaces, according to Metra’s station information.
Passengers who park regularly should confirm current daily parking rules, permits, payment requirements, and any municipal restrictions before leaving their vehicle.
Is Metra Harvard Station Accessible?
Yes. Metra lists Harvard Station as accessible.
Accessible features can be particularly important for passengers using wheelchairs, mobility aids, or other accessibility equipment. Metra’s accessibility guidance explains that accessible stations can include features such as accessible parking, ramps or elevators, improved signage, and tactile platform markings.
Passengers who require specific accommodations should verify the current station conditions before traveling.
Pace Bus Connection at Harvard Station
Harvard Metra Station connects with Pace Route 808.
This gives passengers an additional public transportation option for reaching destinations beyond the immediate rail corridor.
When combining Metra and Pace, check both services’ schedules because bus and train departure times may not always align perfectly.
Metra Harvard Station Fares
Harvard Station is in Metra Fare Zone 4.
Your final fare depends on your origin and destination zones and the type of ticket or pass purchased.
Metra offers different fare products, including:
- One-way tickets
- Day passes
- Monthly passes
- Weekend passes
- Reduced-fare options for eligible passengers
Metra’s new-rider information recommends using its fare calculator for the current cost of a particular trip.
How to Check the Harvard Metra Fare
The easiest way to determine your fare is to enter your starting station and destination into Metra’s current fare calculator.
For example, the cost of traveling between Harvard and downtown Chicago depends on the applicable fare zones and current fare structure.
Harvard to Chicago by Metra
One of the main reasons passengers use Harvard Station is to travel to Chicago without driving.
The typical journey works like this:
- Arrive at Harvard Metra Station.
- Check the current UP-NW departure information.
- Confirm the platform.
- Purchase your ticket through an available method.
- Board the train toward Chicago.
- Remain on the train until Ogilvie Transportation Center.
- Continue your trip using walking, CTA, rideshare, taxi, or another connection.
The UP-NW Line provides the rail connection between Harvard and Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Harvard to Ogilvie Transportation Center
Ogilvie Transportation Center is the downtown Chicago terminal for the UP-NW Line.
This means passengers traveling from Harvard into central Chicago do not need to transfer to another Metra line simply to reach downtown. The UP-NW service directly connects the two terminals.
From Ogilvie, travelers can continue to offices, restaurants, shopping areas, hotels, and other Chicago destinations.
Harvard Station vs. Woodstock Metra Station
Harvard and Woodstock are both served by the UP-NW Line, but they serve different communities.
| Feature | Harvard Station | Woodstock Station |
|---|---|---|
| Metra Line | UP-NW | UP-NW |
| Location | Harvard, Illinois | Woodstock, Illinois |
| Role on UP-NW | Outer terminal | Intermediate station |
| Chicago Terminal | Ogilvie Transportation Center | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Fare Zone | 4 | Varies by current Metra fare structure |
| Parking | Yes | Yes |
| Accessibility | Yes | Verify current station details |
Harvard is particularly significant because it is the outer terminal of the UP-NW Line, while Woodstock is one of the intermediate stations along the route.
Harvard Station vs. McHenry Station
Harvard and McHenry are both associated with the UP-NW service network, but they are not the same route endpoint.
Harvard is the main UP-NW outer terminal, while McHenry is served by the line’s branch. Metra’s UP-NW materials distinguish the Harvard and McHenry services in its schedules and station listings.
This distinction matters when checking train schedules because not every UP-NW train is necessarily a Harvard train.
Tips for Using Metra Harvard Station
1. Check the schedule before leaving home
Metra schedules can vary by day and service changes. Check the current schedule before traveling.
2. Arrive early
Give yourself enough time to park, walk to the platform, check the departure board, and board the train.
3. Confirm the platform
Harvard normally uses Platform 2 for inbound trains and Platform 1 for outbound trains, but Metra advises that platform changes may be announced.
4. Have your ticket ready
Since Harvard does not have a ticket vending machine, consider purchasing through the Ventra app or following Metra’s onboard ticket-purchasing rules.
5. Check parking requirements
The station has 280 parking spaces, but parking rules are managed locally. Confirm current payment and parking requirements if you plan to leave your vehicle there.
6. Watch for service alerts
Construction, weather, special events, or operational issues can affect train service. Check current alerts before your trip.
What Can You Do Near Harvard Metra Station?
Harvard Station is located close to the community’s downtown area, making the station useful for more than just daily commuting.
Depending on your destination, you may use the station to access:
- Downtown Harvard
- Local restaurants and shops
- Community services
- Residential neighborhoods
- Nearby businesses
- Regional connections through Pace
For visitors, the station can also serve as a convenient starting point for exploring Harvard and the surrounding area.
Why Harvard Station Is Important for Commuters
The value of Harvard Station comes largely from its position at the end of the UP-NW Line.
Instead of driving all the way into Chicago, commuters can:
- Drive or walk to the Harvard station
- Park near the station
- Take Metra toward Chicago
- Arrive at Ogilvie Transportation Center
- Continue through downtown Chicago using local transportation or walking
This makes commuter rail particularly useful for people who prefer to avoid driving and parking in central Chicago.
Metra Harvard Station: Important Information for First-Time Riders
If you are using Harvard Station for the first time, remember these key points:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where is Harvard Station? | 1 N. Ayer Street, Harvard, IL 60033 |
| Which Metra line serves it? | Union Pacific Northwest |
| Where does the train go in Chicago? | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Is Harvard Station accessible? | Yes |
| Is parking available? | Yes |
| How many parking spaces? | 280 |
| Is there a ticket machine? | No |
| Can I buy a ticket on the train? | Yes, according to Metra’s station information |
| Can I use the Ventra app? | Yes |
| Is there a Pace connection? | Pace Route 808 |
| What fare zone is Harvard? | Zone 4 |
| Which platform is normally inbound? | Platform 2 |
| Which platform is normally outbound? | Platform 1 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Metra line goes to Harvard?
Harvard is served by the Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) Line. The line connects Harvard with Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Where is Harvard Metra Station located?
Harvard Metra Station is located at 1 N. Ayer Street, Harvard, Illinois 60033.
Does Harvard Metra Station have parking?
Yes. Metra lists six parking lots with a combined total of 280 spaces, including seven ADA parking spaces.
Is Harvard Metra Station accessible?
Yes. Metra lists Harvard Station as an accessible station.
Can I buy a Metra ticket at Harvard Station?
Harvard Station does not have a ticket vending machine. Metra says passengers can purchase tickets onboard or through the Ventra app.
What is the fare zone for Harvard Metra Station?
Harvard Station is in Fare Zone 4.
Does Harvard Metra Station connect with Pace?
Yes. Pace Route 808 is listed as a connecting service at Harvard Station.
Which platform should I use at Harvard Metra Station?
Metra lists Platform 2 for inbound trains and Platform 1 for outbound trains under normal operations. Platform changes may be announced at the station.
Does the Metra Harvard train go directly to Chicago?
Yes. UP-NW trains connect Harvard with Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago. However, individual schedules and service patterns can vary, so check the current timetable for your travel date.
What time does the Harvard Metra Station waiting room open?
Metra currently lists the Harvard waiting room as open from 5:00 a.m. to 1:35 p.m.
Final Takeaway
Metra Harvard Station is an important UP-NW commuter rail station serving Harvard, Illinois, and surrounding communities. It provides a direct rail connection toward Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago, along with parking, accessible facilities, a Pace Route 808 connection, and multiple daily train services.
