To connect from a Metra train to a CTA ‘L’ train downtown, you’ll typically transfer at one of the downtown Metra stations. Millennium Station (serving the Metra Electric line) and Union Station (serving multiple Metra lines) are prime examples. You can then transfer to the ‘L’ using the nearby ‘L’ stations, such as the State/Lake station for the Red, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple lines, or the Washington/Wells station for the Blue and Pink lines.
Connecting from Metra to CTA L trains downtown
Identify Your Metra Line and Downtown Station
- Figure out which Metra line you’re on and which downtown station serves it.
- Metra Electric: Van Buren Street Station and Millennium Station.
- Union Pacific (North, Northwest, West): Ogilvie Transportation Center.
- BNSF, SouthWest Service, Heritage Corridor: Union Station.
- Rock Island: LaSalle Street Station.
Locate the Nearest ‘L’ Stations
- Millennium Station:. The ‘L’ is accessible from Millennium Station via a short walk to the Randolph/Wabash station, which serves multiple lines, or the State/Lake station.
- Union Station: You can walk to the Clinton/Congress station (Blue and Pink lines) or the Quincy/Wells station (all lines except Red and Purple).
- Ogilvie Transportation Center: The Clinton/Lake station (Green, Pink, and Yellow lines) is nearby.
- LaSalle Street Station: The nearest ‘L’ station is LaSalle/Van Buren (Blue, Orange, and Brown lines).
Purchase a CTA Ticket or Use Ventra
- Ventra: You can use a Ventra card or the Ventra app for both Metra and CTA, or purchase a CTA ticket with cash or credit at vending machines in the stations.
- CTA Tickets: A single ride on the ‘L’ costs $2.50.
Consider the Regional Connect Pass
- If you’re a monthly Metra pass holder, consider the Regional Connect Pass offered by Metra. This pass allows for unlimited rides on the CTA and Pace (the suburban bus service) for an additional $30 per month, according to Metra.
Utilize the CTA’s Trip Planner
The CTA website has a trip planner that can help you navigate your connection and find the best route.
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