The Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center is one of Chicago’s busiest rail stations and the downtown terminal for several commuter lines. Situated at 500 W Madison St, it serves as an extension to commuters routing towards the western suburbs and beyond, such as Elgin, Aurora, and Rockford. Because it is a major component of the city’s transit system, the Metra Ogilvie Transportation Station offers features such as ticket vending machines, seating areas, and several retail establishments.
The station is famous for its architecture and the distinctive building constructed in Gothic Revival style in 1929. It sits near the Loop and is close to the Chicago Riverwalk, Millennium Park, and many office buildings and restaurants. Passengers may also transfer to other means of public transportation, such as the CTA “L” or CTA buses, and therefore, it is an important part of the Chicago transit system.
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center Overview
Below is the station Overview.
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center Address
500 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60661
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center Parking
There are many convenient parking lots near this train station, though they can fill up quickly because of its downtown location in Chicago.
Here are the key parking options:
1. Union Station Parking Garage
500 W Jackson Blvd (around the station)
Details: Hourly and daily parking rates are available at this garage. It is a parking facility that is one of the nearest to the station and serves as a popular lot for commuters traveling to or from Ogilvie.
2. 500 W Madison St Parking Lot
Right near the Ogilvie Station
Details: Smaller lot that aspires to offer hourly and daily parking, but it is quickly full during peak times.
3. Street Parking
Madison St, Canal St, and the surrounding blocks
Details: Metered street parking is available, although it is challenging to find during business hours. Pro tip: Always remember to check the parking signs for regulations and prices.
4. Private Garages
There are a bunch of private parking garages in the area that do monthly and daily parking, though those generally cost more than street parking or public garages.
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center Nearby Attractions
- Willis Tower (Formerly Sears Tower)
- Millennium Park
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago Riverwalk
- Fulton Market District
- Chicago Board of Trade Building
- River North Gallery District
- Navy Pier
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center Schedule
Weekday Schedule: Ogilvie Transportation Center
| Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 5:00 AM | Kenosha | 6:20 AM |
| 6:00 AM | Kenosha | 7:20 AM |
| 7:00 AM | Kenosha | 8:20 AM |
| 8:00 AM | Kenosha | 9:20 AM |
| 5:00 PM | Kenosha | 6:20 PM |
| 6:00 PM | Kenosha | 7:20 PM |
| 7:00 PM | Kenosha | 8:20 PM |
| Union Pacific Northwest Line (UP-NW) | ||
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 5:30 AM | Crystal Lake | 6:50 AM |
| 6:30 AM | Crystal Lake | 7:50 AM |
| 7:30 AM | Crystal Lake | 8:50 AM |
| 8:30 AM | Crystal Lake | 9:50 AM |
| 4:30 PM | Crystal Lake | 5:50 PM |
| 5:30 PM | Crystal Lake | 6:50 PM |
| 6:30 PM | Crystal Lake | 7:50 PM |
| Union Pacific West Line (UP-W) | ||
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 5:00 AM | Elburn | 6:15 AM |
| 6:00 AM | Elburn | 7:15 AM |
| 7:00 AM | Elburn | 8:15 AM |
| 8:00 AM | Elburn | 9:15 AM |
| 5:00 PM | Elburn | 6:15 PM |
| 6:00 PM | Elburn | 7:15 PM |
| 7:00 PM | Elburn | 8:15 PM |
| Metra Electric Line (ME) | ||
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 5:00 AM | University Park | 5:50 AM |
| 6:00 AM | University Park | 6:50 AM |
| 7:00 AM | University Park | 7:50 AM |
| 8:00 AM | University Park | 8:50 AM |
| 5:00 PM | University Park | 5:50 PM |
| 6:00 PM | University Park | 6:50 PM |
| 7:00 PM | University Park | 7:50 PM |
Weekend Schedule: Ogilvie Transportation Center
| Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 6:00 AM | Kenosha | 7:20 AM |
| 7:00 AM | Kenosha | 8:20 AM |
| 8:00 AM | Kenosha | 9:20 AM |
| 9:00 AM | Kenosha | 10:20 AM |
| 5:00 PM | Kenosha | 6:20 PM |
| Union Pacific Northwest Line (UP-NW) | ||
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 6:00 AM | Crystal Lake | 7:20 AM |
| 7:00 AM | Crystal Lake | 8:20 AM |
| 8:00 AM | Crystal Lake | 9:20 AM |
| 9:00 AM | Crystal Lake | 10:20 AM |
| 5:00 PM | Crystal Lake | 6:20 PM |
| Union Pacific West Line (UP-W) | ||
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 6:00 AM | Elburn | 7:20 AM |
| 7:00 AM | Elburn | 8:20 AM |
| 8:00 AM | Elburn | 9:20 AM |
| 9:00 AM | Elburn | 10:20 AM |
| 5:00 PM | Elburn | 6:20 PM |
| BNSF Railway Line | ||
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 6:00 AM | Aurora | 7:30 AM |
| 7:00 AM | Aurora | 8:30 AM |
| 8:00 AM | Aurora | 9:30 AM |
| 9:00 AM | Aurora | 10:30 AM |
| 5:00 PM | Aurora | 6:30 PM |
| Metra Electric Line (ME) | ||
| Departure Time | Destination | Arrival Time |
| 6:00 AM | University Park | 6:50 AM |
| 7:00 AM | University Park | 7:50 AM |
| 8:00 AM | University Park | 8:50 AM |
| 9:00 AM | University Park | 9:50 AM |
| 5:00 PM | University Park | 5:50 PM |
Weekday Schedule: Metra LaSalle Street Station to Joliet
| Departure Time | Line | Destination | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 5:57 AM |
| 5:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 6:57 AM |
| 6:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 7:57 AM |
| 7:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 8:57 AM |
| 8:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 9:57 AM |
| 9:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 10:57 AM |
| 10:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 11:57 AM |
| 11:40 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 12:57 PM |
| 12:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 1:57 PM |
| 1:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 2:57 PM |
| 2:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 3:57 PM |
| 3:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 4:57 PM |
| 4:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 5:57 PM |
| 5:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 6:57 PM |
| 6:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 7:57 PM |
| 7:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 8:57 PM |
| 8:40 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 9:57 PM |
Weekend Schedule: Metra LaSalle Street Station to Joliet
| Departure Time | Line | Destination | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5:30 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 6:45 AM |
| 6:30 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 7:45 AM |
| 7:30 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 8:45 AM |
| 8:30 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 9:45 AM |
| 9:30 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 10:45 AM |
| 10:30 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 11:45 AM |
| 11:30 AM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 12:45 PM |
| 12:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 1:45 PM |
| 1:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 2:45 PM |
| 2:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 3:45 PM |
| 3:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 4:45 PM |
| 4:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 5:45 PM |
| 5:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 6:45 PM |
| 6:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 7:45 PM |
| 7:30 PM | Rock Island District (RID) | Joliet | 8:45 PM |
Metra Lines Serving Ogilvie Transportation Center
| Metra Line | Direction | Major Stops | Final Destination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Union Pacific North (UP-N) | Northbound | Clybourn, Evanston, Wilmette | Kenosha |
| Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) | Northwest | Clybourn, Des Plaines, Arlington Heights | Harvard / McHenry |
| Union Pacific West (UP-W) | Westbound | Oak Park, Elmhurst, Wheaton | Elburn |
Destinations from Ogilvie Transportation Center
| Destination | Line | Approx. Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Evanston | UP-N | 25 minutes |
| Kenosha | UP-N | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Arlington Heights | UP-NW | 45 minutes |
| Des Plaines | UP-NW | 35 minutes |
| Harvard | UP-NW | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Oak Park | UP-W | 15 minutes |
| Elmhurst | UP-W | 30 minutes |
| Wheaton | UP-W | 50 minutes |
| Elburn | UP-W | 1 hour 10 minutes |
Popular Routes from Ogilvie Transportation Center
| Route | Line | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ogilvie → Evanston | UP-N | 25 minutes |
| Ogilvie → Kenosha | UP-N | 1 hr 30 min |
| Ogilvie → Arlington Heights | UP-NW | 45 minutes |
| Ogilvie → Des Plaines | UP-NW | 35 minutes |
| Ogilvie → Harvard | UP-NW | 1 hr 45 min |
| Ogilvie → Oak Park | UP-W | 15 minutes |
| Ogilvie → Elmhurst | UP-W | 30 minutes |
| Ogilvie → Wheaton | UP-W | 50 minutes |
| Ogilvie → Elburn | UP-W | 1 hr 10 minutes |
You May Also Like:
- Metra BNSF Line
- North Central Service Line
- Metra Southwest Service Line
- Milwaukee District North Line Schedule
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center is one of the primary commuter rail terminals in downtown Chicago and the main downtown terminal for Metra’s three Union Pacific lines: the Union Pacific North (UP-N), Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW), and Union Pacific West (UP-W).
Located in Chicago’s West Loop area, Ogilvie Transportation Center is an important gateway for commuters traveling between downtown Chicago and communities throughout the northern, northwestern, and western suburbs.
The terminal is closely connected with Chicago’s downtown business district and is also within walking distance of other major transportation and commercial destinations.
Metra’s system information identifies Ogilvie Transportation Center as the downtown terminal for all three Union Pacific lines, which extend to Kenosha, Harvard, and Elburn respectively.
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official name | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Type | Metra commuter rail terminal |
| Location | Downtown Chicago |
| Primary Metra operator | Metra |
| Main lines | Union Pacific North, Union Pacific Northwest, Union Pacific West |
| UP-N terminal | Kenosha, Wisconsin |
| UP-NW terminal | Harvard, Illinois |
| UP-W terminal | Elburn, Illinois |
| Major connections | CTA, Pace and other downtown transportation |
| Accessibility | Accessible terminal |
| Service type | Commuter rail |
| Nearby district | Chicago West Loop |
| Main purpose | Suburban commuter rail service |
| Platform area | Multiple tracks/platforms serving the three UP lines |
What Is Ogilvie Transportation Center?
Ogilvie Transportation Center, often shortened to Ogilvie or OTC, is a major Chicago commuter rail terminal operated by Metra.
It serves the three Union Pacific lines:
- Union Pacific North Line
- Union Pacific Northwest Line
- Union Pacific West Line
These three routes provide rail service from downtown Chicago to communities extending north, northwest, and west of the city.
For many suburban commuters, Ogilvie is the final downtown destination when traveling toward Chicago.
The terminal is therefore particularly important for passengers working or visiting destinations in Chicago’s Loop and West Loop.
Where Is Ogilvie Transportation Center?
Ogilvie Transportation Center is located in downtown Chicago, in the West Loop area.
Its location places it close to major office buildings, restaurants, hotels, shopping areas and other downtown destinations.
The station is also close to Chicago Union Station, another major Metra and Amtrak terminal.
Although Ogilvie and Union Station are separate terminals, passengers can walk between the two facilities when transferring between Metra lines or connecting with Amtrak.
Which Metra Lines Use Ogilvie Transportation Center?
Three Metra lines use Ogilvie Transportation Center.
| Metra Line | Direction | Outer Terminal |
|---|---|---|
| Union Pacific North | North | Kenosha |
| Union Pacific Northwest | Northwest | Harvard |
| Union Pacific West | West | Elburn |
Metra’s operating information lists Ogilvie as the downtown terminal for all three Union Pacific routes.
This makes Ogilvie different from Chicago Union Station, which serves several other Metra routes.
Union Pacific North at Ogilvie
The Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) runs north from Ogilvie Transportation Center toward Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Major communities along the route include:
- Rogers Park
- Evanston
- Wilmette
- Winnetka
- Glencoe
- Highland Park
- Highwood
- Lake Forest
- Lake Bluff
- North Chicago
- Waukegan
- Zion
- Winthrop Harbor
- Kenosha
The current Metra station guide identifies Ogilvie as the UP-N downtown terminal and Kenosha as the outlying terminal.
UP-N direction
For passengers at Ogilvie:
Ogilvie Transportation Center → North Side → Northern suburbs → Kenosha
The exact stopping pattern and departure time depend on the individual train.
Union Pacific Northwest at Ogilvie
The Union Pacific Northwest Line (UP-NW) travels northwest from Ogilvie toward Harvard.
The route serves numerous communities, including:
- Arlington Heights
- Mount Prospect
- Palatine
- Barrington
- Cary
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- Harvard
The line also has the McHenry Branch, which provides service toward McHenry. Metra’s current operating information identifies Harvard as the main outlying terminal for UP-NW.
UP-NW direction
Ogilvie Transportation Center → Northwest suburbs → Harvard
The exact stations served depend on the train selected.
Union Pacific West at Ogilvie
The Union Pacific West Line (UP-W) travels west from Ogilvie Transportation Center toward Elburn.
Major communities on the route include:
- Elmhurst
- Villa Park
- Lombard
- Glen Ellyn
- Wheaton
- Winfield
- West Chicago
- Geneva
- La Fox
- Elburn
Metra identifies Ogilvie as the downtown terminal and Elburn as the outlying terminal for the Union Pacific West Line.
UP-W direction
Ogilvie Transportation Center → Western suburbs → Elburn
Ogilvie Transportation Center Platform Information
Ogilvie is a large terminal with multiple tracks serving the three Union Pacific routes.
The platform you need depends on:
- Metra line
- Train number
- Destination
- Departure time
- Current operating conditions
Do not assume that every Union Pacific train boards from the same platform.
Metra’s rider guide provides directional platform guidance for the individual Union Pacific lines. For example, on the Union Pacific West Line, inbound trains toward Chicago generally use the north platforms and outbound trains toward Elburn generally use the south platforms, with some station-specific exceptions farther along the route.
At Ogilvie itself, passengers should always follow the current departure boards and station announcements.
How to Find Your Train at Ogilvie Transportation Center
If you are using Ogilvie for the first time, the process is straightforward.
1. Check the line
Determine whether your train is:
- UP-N
- UP-NW
- UP-W
2. Check your destination
Look at the destination shown on the departure board.
3. Check the train number and departure time
Several trains can operate close together, so confirm both.
4. Find the assigned track or platform
Use the terminal’s electronic departure information.
5. Follow the platform signs
Proceed to the designated platform and confirm the train destination before boarding.
6. Check the train before boarding
Some trains may not stop at every station on their line.
Ogilvie Transportation Center Schedule
There is no single Ogilvie Transportation Center schedule because three different Metra lines operate from the terminal.
Instead, passengers need to check the timetable for their specific line:
- Union Pacific North schedule
- Union Pacific Northwest schedule
- Union Pacific West schedule
The departure time can vary based on:
- Weekday or weekend
- Train direction
- Destination
- Individual train
- Service changes
- Construction
- Special events
For the most accurate departure information, use Metra’s current schedule and real-time service information.
Ogilvie Transportation Center Train Hours
Ogilvie does not have one universal opening and closing time that represents all Metra service.
The operating pattern depends on the schedules of the three Union Pacific lines.
A typical commuter pattern includes:
- Early morning suburban-to-Chicago trains
- Morning peak service
- Midday service on applicable schedules
- Afternoon and evening outbound trains
- Later evening departures depending on the line and day
The exact first and last train should be checked for your specific line, station and travel date.
Does Ogilvie Transportation Center Operate on Weekends?
Weekend service depends on the individual Union Pacific line and current Metra timetable.
Passengers should not assume that a weekday schedule applies on Saturday or Sunday.
When planning weekend travel, search the exact date and destination through Metra’s current schedule information.
This is particularly important because commuter rail service patterns can differ substantially between weekdays and weekends.
Ogilvie Transportation Center and Chicago Union Station
Ogilvie and Chicago Union Station are two separate downtown rail terminals.
They are close enough to walk between, which makes them useful when transferring between different Metra services.
| Feature | Ogilvie Transportation Center | Chicago Union Station |
|---|---|---|
| Main Metra lines | UP-N, UP-NW, UP-W | BNSF, HC, MD-N, MD-W, NCS, SWS |
| Main direction | North, northwest, west | Various |
| Amtrak | No primary Amtrak terminal | Major Amtrak terminal |
| Location | West Loop/downtown | West Loop/downtown |
| Major purpose | Union Pacific commuter routes | Several Metra routes + Amtrak |
This distinction is important when planning a Metra trip.
If your ticket or schedule says Ogilvie, going to Union Station will not put you at the correct terminal.
Ogilvie Transportation Center and CTA
Ogilvie is located within Chicago’s central transit network, allowing passengers to connect with CTA services.
Depending on your destination, you may be able to continue your journey using:
- CTA ‘L’ trains
- CTA buses
- Walking
- Other regional transit services
When transferring from Metra to CTA, allow time to leave the Metra terminal and reach the appropriate CTA station or entrance.
Ogilvie Transportation Center and Pace
Passengers traveling beyond the immediate downtown area can also connect with Pace suburban bus services.
Pace is especially useful when a Metra station is not close enough to a passenger’s final destination.
A common regional journey can therefore involve:
Pace → Metra → Ogilvie → CTA
or:
CTA → Ogilvie → Metra → Pace
Using multiple transportation agencies can make suburban-to-downtown travel more flexible.
Ogilvie Transportation Center Accessibility
Ogilvie Transportation Center is an accessible Metra terminal.
Metra’s accessibility guide identifies Ogilvie Transportation Center as fully accessible. The guide also explains that Metra’s main downtown diesel terminals—including Ogilvie, Chicago Union Station and LaSalle Street Station—are fully accessible.
Metra’s accessible railcars are designed to accommodate passengers using mobility devices, and the agency provides accessibility information for individual stations and trains.
Passengers with specific accessibility requirements should check current station information before traveling.
Ogilvie Transportation Center for Passengers With Disabilities
Metra provides accessibility features throughout its system.
For passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility devices, useful considerations include:
- Accessible entrances
- Accessible platforms
- Elevator access where provided
- Accessible railcars
- Assistance from Metra personnel
- Accessible boarding information
Metra states that its accessible railcars can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters within specified size and weight limits.
If you need assistance for a particular journey, contacting Metra Passenger Services before traveling can help you confirm the appropriate arrangements.
Ogilvie Transportation Center Parking
Ogilvie Transportation Center is located in a dense downtown area where parking is generally different from parking at a suburban Metra station.
Rather than treating Ogilvie as a park-and-ride station, many passengers reach it using:
- CTA
- Other Metra trains
- Pace
- Taxi or rideshare
- Walking
- Bicycle
- Private vehicle drop-off
If you are driving downtown, check current parking availability and pricing separately because parking facilities and rates can change.
For many suburban commuters, parking at their origin Metra station and taking the train into Ogilvie can be more straightforward than driving into downtown.
Hotels Near Ogilvie Transportation Center
Because Ogilvie is in downtown Chicago, travelers can find numerous hotels within the surrounding area.
The terminal is particularly convenient for visitors staying in:
- West Loop
- Fulton Market
- Chicago Loop
- River North
- Downtown Chicago
When choosing a hotel, consider the walking distance to Ogilvie as well as access to CTA stations and other transportation.
Things to Do Near Ogilvie Transportation Center
Ogilvie’s downtown location puts it close to a wide range of Chicago attractions and business destinations.
Nearby areas include:
Chicago Loop
The Loop is Chicago’s central business and cultural district and is accessible from Ogilvie by walking and public transit.
West Loop
The West Loop is known for restaurants, offices, hotels and entertainment.
Fulton Market
Fulton Market is a major dining, hospitality and business district near Ogilvie.
Willis Tower
The famous Chicago skyscraper is located within the broader downtown area and can be reached from Ogilvie by walking or public transportation.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is also accessible from downtown and can be reached using a combination of walking and local transit.
Ogilvie Transportation Center to Willis Tower
Willis Tower is relatively close to Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Depending on your exact exit and destination, you can generally walk from the station toward Willis Tower.
The journey is particularly convenient for commuters whose offices are located in Chicago’s West Loop or central business district.
Ogilvie Transportation Center to Union Station
Ogilvie Transportation Center and Chicago Union Station are located near each other.
This makes walking between the terminals a practical option for many passengers transferring between Metra lines.
For example:
UP-N → Ogilvie → walk → Union Station → BNSF
may be useful for a passenger whose journey requires different Metra routes.
Always allow extra transfer time, especially when carrying luggage or traveling during busy periods.
Ogilvie Transportation Center to O’Hare Airport
Ogilvie does not have a direct Metra train to the O’Hare terminal.
Passengers traveling between Ogilvie and O’Hare generally need to use another transportation connection.
Possible options can include:
- CTA Blue Line
- Taxi
- Rideshare
- Private transportation
- Metra plus another connecting service
The best option depends on your time, luggage and final destination.
Ogilvie Transportation Center to Midway Airport
There is also no direct Metra train from Ogilvie directly into Midway Airport.
Travelers can use a combination of Metra and CTA services depending on their starting point.
The CTA Orange Line provides rail service to Midway Airport, so passengers can transfer through the downtown transit network.
Metra Lines at Ogilvie: Quick Comparison
| Feature | UP-N | UP-NW | UP-W |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown terminal | Ogilvie | Ogilvie | Ogilvie |
| General direction | North | Northwest | West |
| Outer terminal | Kenosha | Harvard | Elburn |
| State reached | Wisconsin | Illinois | Illinois |
| Major suburbs | Evanston, Highland Park, Waukegan | Arlington Heights, Palatine, Crystal Lake | Elmhurst, Wheaton, Geneva |
| Branch | No major branch listed here | McHenry Branch | No major branch |
| Primary travel area | North suburbs | Northwest suburbs | Western suburbs |
Metra’s system data lists Kenosha, Harvard and Elburn as the respective outlying terminals of the three Union Pacific routes.
Ogilvie Transportation Center Station Guide
For a smooth journey, keep the following information in mind:
| What You Need | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Train line | UP-N, UP-NW or UP-W |
| Destination | Exact station or terminal |
| Departure | Current timetable |
| Platform | Departure board |
| Ticket | Correct Metra fare/product |
| Accessibility | Current station information |
| Connections | CTA/Pace/other Metra |
| Service status | Real-time information |
| Return trip | Current schedule |
How to Ride Metra From Ogilvie Transportation Center
Step 1: Identify your Metra line
Determine whether you need UP-N, UP-NW or UP-W.
Step 2: Check the timetable
Look up your departure station, destination and travel date.
Step 3: Purchase your ticket
Use the available Metra ticketing options.
Step 4: Enter Ogilvie
Follow the signs for the Metra concourse and departure information.
Step 5: Check the departure board
Confirm:
- Train number
- Destination
- Departure time
- Track/platform
Step 6: Go to the platform
Follow the signs for the assigned train.
Step 7: Confirm your train
Before boarding, verify that the destination and line match your trip.
Step 8: Keep your ticket available
You may need to show it during the journey.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Ogilvie
Arrive early
A large downtown terminal can take time to navigate, particularly during rush periods.
Know your line
UP-N, UP-NW and UP-W all use Ogilvie, so knowing your line makes finding the correct train easier.
Check the destination
The final destination displayed on the board can help you identify your train.
Don’t rely on memory
Track assignments and service conditions can change.
Check your return train
If you are visiting Chicago from the suburbs, check the return departure before beginning your day.
Allow transfer time
If you are transferring to Union Station, CTA or Pace, leave enough time for walking and navigation.
Why Ogilvie Transportation Center Is Important
Ogilvie is important because it brings together three major suburban rail corridors in one downtown terminal.
The three Union Pacific routes collectively serve communities extending:
- North toward Kenosha
- Northwest toward Harvard
- West toward Elburn
This makes Ogilvie a major gateway between Chicago’s central business area and a large portion of the surrounding suburban region.
Metra’s system data shows that the Union Pacific North, Northwest and West lines together account for a substantial portion of the network’s stations and route mileage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ogilvie Transportation Center?
Ogilvie Transportation Center is a major Metra commuter rail terminal in downtown Chicago serving the three Union Pacific lines.
Which Metra lines use Ogilvie Transportation Center?
The three lines are:
- Union Pacific North
- Union Pacific Northwest
- Union Pacific West
Where does the Union Pacific North Line go from Ogilvie?
The Union Pacific North Line runs north toward Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Where does the Union Pacific Northwest Line go?
The Union Pacific Northwest Line runs northwest toward Harvard, Illinois, with a branch toward McHenry.
Where does the Union Pacific West Line go?
The Union Pacific West Line runs west toward Elburn, Illinois.
Is Ogilvie Transportation Center the same as Chicago Union Station?
No. They are separate downtown Chicago rail terminals located close to one another.
Can I walk from Ogilvie to Union Station?
Yes. The two stations are close to each other, making walking a practical transfer option for many passengers.
Is Ogilvie Transportation Center accessible?
Yes. Metra identifies Ogilvie Transportation Center as a fully accessible downtown terminal.
Does Ogilvie have Metra parking?
Ogilvie is a downtown terminal rather than a typical suburban park-and-ride station. Passengers can use nearby downtown parking facilities, but availability and prices vary.
Does Ogilvie Transportation Center connect to the CTA?
Yes. The terminal is located within Chicago’s central transit network and provides convenient access to CTA services by walking and connecting downtown.
Does Metra go directly from Ogilvie to O’Hare?
No direct Metra train runs from Ogilvie into the O’Hare terminal. Passengers generally need a connecting service such as CTA or another transportation option.
Does Metra go directly from Ogilvie to Midway?
No. Travelers need to use a connecting transit service to reach Midway Airport.
What is the address of Ogilvie Transportation Center?
Ogilvie Transportation Center is located in downtown Chicago’s West Loop area. Because entrances and pedestrian approaches can vary, use the current Metra station information when planning a visit.
How many Metra lines use Ogilvie?
Three Metra lines use the terminal: UP-N, UP-NW and UP-W.
Is Ogilvie Transportation Center open on weekends?
The terminal’s operating activity depends on the current schedules of the Union Pacific lines. Check the specific line and travel date rather than assuming weekday service patterns apply.
Ogilvie Transportation Center vs. Other Chicago Metra Terminals
| Terminal | Main Metra Lines |
|---|---|
| Ogilvie Transportation Center | UP-N, UP-NW, UP-W |
| Chicago Union Station | BNSF, Heritage Corridor, Milwaukee District North, Milwaukee District West, North Central Service, SouthWest Service |
| LaSalle Street Station | Rock Island |
| Millennium Station | Metra Electric |
This division makes it easier to determine where you need to go before traveling downtown.
Final Takeaway
Metra Ogilvie Transportation Center is one of Chicago’s most important commuter rail terminals and the downtown home of the Union Pacific North, Union Pacific Northwest, and Union Pacific West lines.
From Ogilvie, Metra trains connect downtown Chicago with communities stretching north to Kenosha, northwest to Harvard, and west to Elburn.
For passengers, the most important things to remember are:
- UP-N → Kenosha
- UP-NW → Harvard/McHenry
- UP-W → Elburn
- Ogilvie is separate from Chicago Union Station
- Check the current departure board for your platform
- Check the timetable for your exact date and destination
- Allow additional time when transferring between terminals or transit systems
- Use current accessibility and service information when required
Ogilvie’s location, connections and three major Union Pacific routes make it a key part of Chicago’s commuter rail network and an important starting point for travel between downtown Chicago and the northern, northwestern and western suburbs.
