To plan a Metra reverse commute from downtown Chicago to the suburbs, use the Metra website or mobile app to find your train line, departure station, and destination station. You can also use the trip planner to input your origin and destination for automated route recommendations. Be sure to check the schedule for your specific line and time of travel, especially during peak reverse commute hours.
How do I plan a reverse commute on Metra?
Here’s a step-by-step guide
1. Identify your train line: Metra has multiple lines that serve different parts of the Chicago suburbs. You can find a system map on the Metra website or use the station finder tool to locate the closest stations to your origin and destination.
2. Determine your departure and destination stations: Use the station finder tool or system map to identify the closest Metra stations to your starting point and final destination.
3. Use the trip planner or schedule tool: The Metra trip planner allows you to input your origin and destination, and it will provide you with the appropriate train line, departure time, and destination station. Alternatively, you can use the schedule tool to find the specific train schedule for your route and time.
4. Check the schedule for your specific route: Metra schedules vary by line and time of day. Be sure to check the schedule for your specific route to find the train that best suits your travel needs, especially during peak reverse commute hours.
5. Consider reverse commute patterns: While Metra is a reliable option for reverse commuting, be aware that reverse commute traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours (7:00-8:50 am for inbound to suburbs). Some employers may offer special reverse commute services or have agreements with Metra for specific routes.
6. Utilize additional resources: Explore options like the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Pace suburban bus for connecting services. You can also use resources like Google Maps to estimate travel times and potential traffic delays.