To reach the Loop in Chicago using Metra, you’ll need to take a Metra train to one of the downtown stations (Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center, or LaSalle Street Station) and then transfer to the “L” train (CTA) or utilize Loop Link buses for the final leg to your specific destination within the Loop.
How do I get to the Loop using Metra?
Here’s a more detailed breakdown
- Take Metra to a Downtown Station: Identify the Metra line that serves your origin and head towards one of the three downtown stations: Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center, or LaSalle Street Station. These stations are all located within or very close to the Loop.
- Purchase Metra Tickets: You can buy Metra tickets at the station (vending machines or from the conductor if a machine isn’t available) or through the Ventra app.
- Transfer to the “L” or Use Loop Link:
- “L” Train (CTA): Once you arrive at your Metra station, you can transfer to the “L” (Chicago’s elevated train system) to reach your exact destination within the Loop. The “L” lines that run through the Loop are the Blue, Red, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple lines.
- Loop Link: The Loop Link buses provide a convenient way to travel within the Loop, connecting Union and Ogilvie Stations to Michigan Avenue and other key locations. These buses run on dedicated lanes along Washington, Madison, Clinton, and Canal streets.
- Explore the Loop: The Loop, defined by Lake, Wabash, Van Buren, and Wells streets, is a vibrant area with numerous attractions, businesses, and cultural institutions.
Let’s say you’re coming from the suburbs and need to get to Millennium Park. You would
- Take your Metra line to Union Station.
- Exit Union Station and walk to the “L” station (either directly connected or a short walk depending on the specific station).
- Take the CTA Purple, Brown, or Green line (or any line that runs to the Loop) to the Randolph/Washington station, which is very close to Millennium Park.
- Alternatively, you could take the Loop Link bus (e.g., #124 Navy Pier) from Union Station to a stop near Millennium Park.