The Metra Weekend Schedule helps passengers plan train travel across Chicago and the surrounding suburbs on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Whether you are commuting on the weekend, visiting Chicago attractions, attending a sporting event, meeting friends, or traveling between suburban communities, checking the correct weekend timetable can make your trip much easier.
Metra operates 11 commuter rail lines across the Chicago metropolitan region. Weekend service varies by line, station, time of day, and travel date, so the schedule you use during the week should not automatically be assumed to apply on Saturday or Sunday.
Metra provides an official schedule search where passengers can select their train line, departure station, destination, date, and time. It also provides Metra Tracker for real-time train information and service alerts.
This guide explains how the Metra Saturday schedule, Metra Sunday schedule, weekend trains, holiday schedules, weekend fares, Weekend Pass, Day Pass, service alerts, and real-time tracking work.
Metra Weekend Schedule at a Glance
| Information | Weekend Details |
|---|---|
| Saturday Service | Available on Metra lines, with schedules varying by route |
| Sunday Service | Available on applicable lines, with route-specific schedules |
| Holiday Service | Sunday schedules may apply on major holidays |
| Weekend Pass | $10 |
| Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass | $7 |
| Weekend Pass Availability | Ventra app only |
| Weekend Pass Validity | Saturday and Sunday |
| Day Pass Validity | One Saturday, Sunday, or eligible holiday |
| Real-Time Information | Metra Tracker |
| Schedule Lookup | Official Metra schedule tool |
| Service Updates | Metra Service Alerts |
Metra currently lists a $7 Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass for unlimited systemwide travel on the applicable day and a $10 Weekend Pass for unlimited systemwide travel on both Saturday and Sunday. The Weekend Pass is available through the Ventra app.
Does Metra Run on Weekends?
Yes. Metra provides weekend service, although the number of trains and departure times can differ substantially from weekday schedules.
Weekend service is particularly useful for:
- Chicago sightseeing
- Shopping trips
- Sporting events
- Concerts
- Festivals
- Family outings
- Visiting friends and relatives
- Suburban activities
- Airport or regional connections
- Leisure travel
- Weekend work schedules
The important point is that Metra weekend schedules are line-specific. A Saturday schedule for the BNSF Line, for example, should not be used to determine the Saturday schedule for the Rock Island Line.
How to Check the Metra Weekend Schedule
The easiest way to find a weekend train is to use Metra’s official schedule search.
Step 1: Select Your Metra Line
Choose the route you need, such as:
- BNSF
- Heritage Corridor
- Metra Electric
- Milwaukee District North
- Milwaukee District West
- North Central Service
- Rock Island
- SouthWest Service
- Union Pacific North
- Union Pacific Northwest
- Union Pacific West
Step 2: Select Your Departure Station
Choose the station where you will board.
Step 3: Enter Your Destination
Select your destination station.
Step 4: Select Saturday or Sunday
Enter the actual date of travel.
Step 5: Check the Departure Time
Review the available trains and stopping pattern.
Metra’s official schedule tool allows passengers to select a line, departure station, destination, and departure date/time. Printable schedules are also available.
Metra Saturday Schedule
The Metra Saturday schedule is designed for weekend travel rather than the traditional weekday commuter rush.
This means passengers may see:
- Different departure times
- Different train frequency
- Different stopping patterns
- Fewer trains on some routes
- Additional service on certain corridors
- Special event trains or schedule changes
You should therefore check the actual Saturday timetable for your line.
Saturday Travel Example
Suppose you want to travel from a suburban station to downtown Chicago on Saturday.
Instead of using Monday’s timetable, check:
Metra Line → Station → Chicago Terminal → Saturday Date → Departure Time
This will give you the applicable weekend schedule.
Metra Sunday Schedule
The Metra Sunday schedule can differ from both weekday and Saturday service.
Some routes may have fewer trains on Sunday, while others may offer regular or enhanced weekend service.
Metra has also made specific weekend service improvements on individual lines. For example, Metra introduced a revised BNSF weekend schedule in 2024 that provided approximately hourly service in both directions during significant portions of the day.
Because schedules can change, passengers should always use the current Metra schedule for their travel date.
Metra Weekend Schedule by Line
Metra operates 11 main lines, but weekend service is not identical across all routes.
| Metra Line | General Weekend Travel Corridor |
|---|---|
| BNSF Railway | Chicago – Aurora |
| Heritage Corridor | Chicago – Joliet |
| Metra Electric | Chicago – University Park and branches |
| Milwaukee District North | Chicago – Fox Lake |
| Milwaukee District West | Chicago – Elgin |
| North Central Service | Chicago – Antioch |
| Rock Island | Chicago – Joliet |
| SouthWest Service | Chicago – Manhattan |
| Union Pacific North | Chicago – Kenosha |
| Union Pacific Northwest | Chicago – Harvard/McHenry |
| Union Pacific West | Chicago – Elburn |
The availability and frequency of weekend trains vary by line. Always check the timetable for your particular route and date.
Metra BNSF Weekend Schedule
The BNSF Line connects Chicago Union Station with Aurora.
Metra increased weekend service on BNSF in 2024, adding trains and moving toward approximately hourly service in both directions during substantial portions of Saturday and Sunday. Metra described the change as providing the same level of service on both weekend days.
For current departure times, use Metra’s official BNSF schedule rather than relying on historical timetable information.
Metra Rock Island Weekend Schedule
The Rock Island Line operates between LaSalle Street Station and Joliet and also includes service through the Beverly Branch.
Weekend service can be affected by:
- Track work
- Bridge projects
- Station improvements
- Special operating schedules
- Construction
For this reason, passengers traveling on the Rock Island Line should check both the weekend timetable and current service alerts.
Metra Electric Weekend Schedule
The Metra Electric District provides service south of downtown Chicago, including University Park and branch destinations.
Because Metra Electric includes different branches, make sure you select the correct destination when checking the weekend schedule.
Do not assume that every Metra Electric train serves every station or branch.
Union Pacific Weekend Schedules
The Union Pacific routes include:
- UP North
- UP Northwest
- UP West
These lines operate from Ogilvie Transportation Center and serve northern, northwestern, and western communities.
Weekend travelers should check the specific UP line because schedules and stopping patterns can vary.
Milwaukee District Weekend Schedules
Metra has two Milwaukee District routes:
- Milwaukee District North
- Milwaukee District West
The Milwaukee District North travels toward Fox Lake, while the Milwaukee District West travels toward Elgin.
Their weekend timetables are separate, so select the correct line before planning your trip.
Does Metra Run on Sunday?
Yes, Metra operates Sunday service on applicable routes.
However, Sunday train frequency can differ from Saturday and weekday schedules.
For example, a train that operates every hour on Saturday may not necessarily operate at the same frequency on Sunday on every Metra route.
The safest approach is to check the official schedule using your exact travel date.
Does Metra Run on Saturday?
Yes. Metra operates Saturday service on its applicable routes.
Saturday is also one of the most useful days for leisure travel because passengers can use Metra for:
- Downtown Chicago trips
- Suburban shopping
- Museums and attractions
- Sports events
- Concerts
- Restaurants
- Family outings
- Festivals
Check the individual line’s Saturday schedule before traveling.
Metra Holiday Schedule
Metra’s holiday service can operate differently from normal Saturday or Sunday service.
Metra schedule information has historically specified that Sunday schedules are used on major holidays, including:
- New Year’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas
Other dates around holidays can have modified schedules.
Because holiday operating plans can change, passengers should check Metra’s current schedule and service alerts for the specific holiday.
Metra Weekend Pass
The Metra Weekend Pass is designed for passengers who expect to make multiple trips over Saturday and Sunday.
The current Weekend Pass costs $10 and provides unlimited Metra rides systemwide on both Saturday and Sunday. It is available through the Ventra app only. Once activated, it expires at 3 a.m. after the weekend.
Weekend Pass Important Details
| Feature | Weekend Pass |
|---|---|
| Price | $10 |
| Travel Days | Saturday + Sunday |
| Coverage | Systemwide |
| Purchase | Ventra app only |
| Activation | Required |
| Expiration | 3 a.m. after the weekend |
| Reduced Fare | Not available |
| Three-Day Weekend | Monday is not included |
For a three-day holiday weekend, the Weekend Pass does not automatically cover the third day. Metra states that a separate Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass is required for the additional holiday day.
Metra Saturday, Sunday or Holiday Day Pass
If you are traveling on only one weekend day, the Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass can be useful.
The current price is $7 and it provides unlimited systemwide Metra travel on the applicable Saturday, Sunday, or major holiday. The pass expires at 3 a.m. the following day.
When Is the $7 Day Pass Useful?
It may make sense for passengers planning multiple Metra trips on one day, such as:
Home → Chicago → Suburban Destination → Chicago → Home
Instead of purchasing several individual tickets, an unlimited day pass may be more convenient.
Metra Weekend Fare Comparison
| Ticket | Current Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass | $7 | One applicable day |
| Weekend Pass | $10 | Saturday + Sunday |
| Regular One-Way | Depends on zones | One trip |
| Day Pass | Zone-based | One day |
| Monthly Pass | Zone-based | Calendar month; systemwide weekends |
The $7 Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Pass and $10 Weekend Pass are separate products. Metra’s current fare information states that there are no reduced fares for these two weekend products.
Is the Metra Weekend Pass Worth It?
The answer depends on how much you plan to travel.
- A Weekend Pass can be useful if you expect to take several Metra trips on both Saturday and Sunday.
- For a passenger making only one trip on Saturday, a regular ticket or Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass may be more appropriate depending on the journey.
- For a passenger traveling multiple times on one day, compare the cost of individual tickets with the $7 Day Pass.
- For someone traveling extensively on both weekend days, compare the options with the $10 Weekend Pass.
Metra Monthly Pass on Weekends
Metra Monthly Pass holders receive an important weekend benefit.
- According to Metra’s current fare information, a Monthly Pass provides unlimited travel between the selected zones on weekdays and systemwide travel on weekends.
- That means a passenger with a qualifying Monthly Pass does not need to purchase another Metra ticket simply because the weekend trip extends beyond the weekday zones covered by the pass.
Are Metra Weekend Fares Reduced for Seniors?
The $7 Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass and $10 Weekend Pass do not have reduced-fare versions.
Metra does, however, offer reduced fares on eligible ticket products for qualifying passengers, including seniors, customers with disabilities, Medicare cardholders, students, and active-duty military personnel under the applicable requirements.
Passengers should check the current eligibility requirements before purchasing a reduced fare.
Metra Family Fares on Weekends
Metra offers Family Fares on weekends and select holidays.
Under the current policy, up to three children age 11 and under can ride free with each fare-paying adult. Family Cars are also available on weekends and non-rush-hour weekday trains.
This can make Metra useful for families planning a weekend outing.
Example
A family with one fare-paying adult and up to three children age 11 or younger may be able to use the Family Fare arrangement rather than purchasing separate full tickets for each child.
Always check the current rules before travel because eligibility and operating conditions apply.
How Early Should You Arrive for a Weekend Metra Train?
There is no single arrival time that works for every station.
A practical approach is to arrive early enough to:
- Find the correct platform
- Purchase or activate your ticket
- Park your vehicle if necessary
- Locate the station entrance
- Check departure information
- Account for unfamiliar station layouts
Arriving earlier is especially useful when traveling from a large downtown terminal or a station you have never used before.
Is Metra Busy on Weekends?
Passenger volume can vary significantly depending on:
- Time of day
- Weather
- Major events
- Festivals
- Sporting events
- Holidays
- Tourist activity
- Downtown events
- Special Metra service
A normal Saturday may be relatively quiet, while a major Chicago event can result in substantially higher demand.
If you are traveling during a major event, check for special Metra announcements before leaving.
Metra Weekend Schedule for Events
Metra can be a convenient option for attending weekend events because passengers can avoid some of the challenges of driving and parking.
Before attending an event, check:
Before the event
- Train departure time
- Station location
- Ticket requirements
- Weekend fare options
- Last return train
- Service alerts
After the event
Do not assume the same schedule operates in reverse.
Check the outbound train timetable before entering the event so you know when you need to return to the station.
How to Check the Last Metra Train on Saturday or Sunday
If you are staying late in Chicago or a suburb, checking the last available train is extremely important.
Use the Metra schedule tool and enter:
Line → Departure Station → Destination → Weekend Date
Then look for the latest departure that works for your trip.
Also check service alerts because late-night operations can be affected by construction or special schedules.
Metra Weekend Schedule and Real-Time Train Status
A published timetable tells you the planned schedule. Metra Tracker helps you see what is happening in real time.
Metra’s current rider information page says the tracker provides the next departures from your station and an interactive map showing the train as it moves along the line.
Use Metra Tracker when:
- Your train appears late
- You are waiting at the station
- Weather is poor
- You are traveling during construction
- You have a tight connection
- You want to see an approaching train
For same-day travel, combining the timetable with real-time information gives you a better picture of your trip.
Metra Weekend Service Alerts
Always check Metra Service Alerts before a weekend trip.
Weekend construction is particularly important because railroad maintenance is often scheduled when weekday commuter demand is lower.
Possible changes include:
- Train cancellations
- Modified schedules
- Temporary station closures
- Bus substitutions
- Track changes
- Platform changes
- Additional stops
- Delays
- Branch shutdowns
Metra’s rider information page provides a dedicated Service Alerts section alongside its schedule and real-time tracker.
Weekend Construction and Metra Trains
Weekend construction can affect a route even when the regular timetable appears normal.
For example, a construction project may result in:
- A later departure
- A train skipping a station
- A temporary replacement bus
- Additional stops on another train
- Reduced service
- A temporary branch shutdown
Therefore, do not rely solely on a saved PDF or old timetable.
Check the current Metra website before your weekend journey.
Metra Weekend Schedule vs. Weekday Schedule
The difference can be significant.
| Feature | Weekday | Weekend |
|---|---|---|
| Commuter Rush | Higher | Generally lower |
| Peak Service | Common | Usually different |
| Schedule | Weekday timetable | Saturday/Sunday timetable |
| Event Travel | Possible | Common |
| Weekend Pass | No | Yes |
| Family Fare | Certain periods | Available |
| Construction | Possible | Often important |
| Service Alerts | Important | Very important |
| Holiday Schedule | Special cases | Often modified |
Never assume that a weekday train time will operate on Saturday or Sunday.
How to Plan a Metra Weekend Trip
A simple planning process can help avoid most common mistakes.
1. Identify Your Destination
Know exactly where you want to go.
2. Find the Nearest Metra Station
Use the Metra station finder or trip-planning tools.
3. Identify the Correct Line
Check whether your station is on BNSF, Rock Island, UP North, UP West, or another route.
4. Check the Saturday or Sunday Schedule
Use your actual travel date.
5. Compare Ticket Options
Consider:
- One-way ticket
- Day Pass
- Weekend Pass
- Monthly Pass
- Family Fare
6. Check Service Alerts
Look for construction or temporary changes.
7. Check Real-Time Status
Use Metra Tracker on the day of travel.
8. Plan Your Return
Check the return train before starting your outing.
Metra Weekend Schedule for Chicago Visitors
If you are visiting Chicago for the weekend, Metra can be useful for trips beyond the downtown area.
You may use Metra to reach:
- North Shore communities
- Western suburbs
- Southwestern suburbs
- South Side destinations
- Northwest suburbs
- Regional attractions
- Colleges and universities
- Suburban shopping districts
If your journey begins downtown, first identify the correct terminal:
| Downtown Terminal | Metra Lines |
|---|---|
| Chicago Union Station | BNSF, Heritage Corridor, Milwaukee District North, Milwaukee District West, North Central Service, SouthWest Service |
| Ogilvie Transportation Center | UP North, UP Northwest, UP West |
| LaSalle Street Station | Rock Island |
| Millennium Station | Metra Electric |
Then check the weekend timetable for the line serving your destination.
Metra Weekend Schedule for Families
Metra can be convenient for family outings because Family Fares allow up to three children age 11 and under to ride free with each fare-paying adult on weekends and select holidays, subject to the applicable rules.
Before leaving:
- Check the train schedule
- Look for Family Cars
- Confirm your ticket
- Check station accessibility
- Bring activities for children
- Check the return schedule
- Allow extra time for boarding
Metra Weekend Schedule for Seniors
Seniors who qualify for Metra reduced fares should carry the required RTA permit when using reduced-fare tickets.
However, the $7 Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass and $10 Weekend Pass do not offer reduced pricing.
For the most appropriate ticket, compare the applicable fare products for your trip.
Tips for a Smooth Metra Weekend Journey
Check the exact date
Saturday and Sunday schedules are not interchangeable with weekday schedules.
Check the line
Nearby destinations can be served by different Metra routes.
Check the return train
This is especially important when attending evening events.
Buy the correct ticket
Compare one-way tickets, day passes, and the Weekend Pass.
Use Metra Tracker
Real-time information can help when a train is delayed.
Review service alerts
Weekend construction can cause temporary changes.
Keep your phone charged
This is particularly useful if you are using a Ventra mobile ticket.
Arrive early
Give yourself time to find the platform and board comfortably.
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Metra Weekends
Using a weekday timetable
A Monday schedule may not apply on Saturday.
Assuming Saturday and Sunday are identical
Weekend service can vary by day and route.
Forgetting about holidays
A holiday may use a modified or Sunday schedule.
Buying the wrong weekend pass
The $10 Weekend Pass covers Saturday and Sunday, while the $7 Day Pass covers one applicable day.
Ignoring service alerts
Construction can change the normal weekend operation.
Forgetting the return journey
Always check your return train before starting a day trip.
Assuming every station has the same facilities
Parking, accessibility, ticketing, and other amenities differ by station.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Metra start running on Saturday?
There is no single systemwide Saturday start time. The first departure depends on the Metra line, station, direction, and date. Check the official schedule for your specific trip.
Does Metra run every hour on weekends?
Not every Metra line operates at the same frequency. Some routes have frequent weekend service, while others have fewer departures. Check the current timetable for your line.
Does Metra run on Sunday?
Yes. Metra provides Sunday service on applicable routes, but Sunday schedules vary by line.
Is Metra cheaper on weekends?
Metra offers special weekend fare products. The current Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass costs $7, while the Weekend Pass costs $10 for unlimited travel on both Saturday and Sunday.
What is the Metra Weekend Pass?
The Metra Weekend Pass is a $10 Ventra-app-only pass providing unlimited Metra rides systemwide on Saturday and Sunday. It expires at 3 a.m. after the weekend.
Can I use the Weekend Pass on Monday?
No. The Weekend Pass covers Saturday and Sunday. If Monday is an additional holiday on a three-day weekend, a separate Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass is required.
Can I buy the Metra Weekend Pass at a station?
The Weekend Pass is available through the Ventra app only.
How much is the Metra Sunday Day Pass?
The current Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass costs $7 and provides unlimited systemwide rides on the applicable day.
Can children ride free on Metra on weekends?
Under Metra’s current Family Fare policy, up to three children age 11 and under can ride free with each fare-paying adult on weekends and select holidays, subject to the applicable rules.
Does Metra have holiday service?
Yes. Metra provides holiday service, but schedules can differ from normal weekday or weekend operations. Major holidays may use Sunday schedules, while other holiday-related dates can have modified schedules.
Where can I check the current Metra weekend schedule?
Use Metra’s official schedule search and enter your line, departure station, destination, and travel date.
How do I check if my Metra train is delayed?
Use Metra Tracker for real-time train information and check Metra’s current service alerts.
Can I use a Monthly Pass on weekends?
Yes. Metra states that Monthly Passes provide unlimited travel between the selected zones on weekdays and systemwide on weekends.
Does Metra offer Family Fares on Saturday and Sunday?
Yes. Family Fares are available on weekends and select holidays under Metra’s current policy.
Are weekend Metra schedules the same for every line?
No. Each Metra line has its own timetable and service pattern. Always check the schedule for the specific route and station.
Metra Weekend Schedule: Quick Reference
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does Metra run Saturday? | Yes |
| Does Metra run Sunday? | Yes, on applicable routes |
| Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass | $7 |
| Weekend Pass | $10 |
| Weekend Pass Coverage | Saturday + Sunday |
| Weekend Pass Purchase | Ventra app only |
| Weekend Pass Monday Validity | No |
| Monthly Pass Weekend Travel | Systemwide |
| Family Fare | Available on weekends and select holidays |
| Holiday Schedule | May use Sunday or modified service |
| Real-Time Status | Metra Tracker |
| Delays/Changes | Metra Service Alerts |
| Best Schedule Source | Current Metra schedule for your exact date |
Final Thoughts
The Metra Weekend Schedule is an essential resource for anyone traveling by commuter rail on Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday. Weekend service can differ from weekday operations, and each Metra line has its own timetable and stopping pattern.
For a successful weekend trip, check the exact travel date, Metra line, departure station, destination, ticket price, service alerts, and real-time train status before heading to the station.
For passengers making several trips, the current $7 Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass and $10 Weekend Pass can simplify weekend travel, while families may benefit from Metra’s Family Fare policy.
