Chicago Airport To Union Station Train Guide

Hey guys, so you're looking to get from one of Chicago's major airports to the iconic Union Station, and you're wondering about the train option? You've come to the right place! Traveling between airports and downtown hubs can sometimes feel like a puzzle, but Chicago makes it pretty straightforward. The main train service you'll be looking at is the Metra Commuter Rail, specifically the Rock Island District Line. This is your go-to for a direct and relatively speedy connection. When we talk about Chicago airports, we're primarily talking about O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Both offer ways to connect to the city's transit network, which eventually leads you to Union Station. It's super important to know which airport you're arriving at, as the process differs slightly. For O'Hare, the train connection is incredibly convenient, practically built right into the airport infrastructure. Midway also has a great train connection, though it's a slightly different line. We'll dive into the specifics for each, so whether you're landing at ORD or MDW, you'll have all the intel you need to hop on that train and head to Union Station without a hitch. Getting this part of your trip sorted early can save you a ton of stress and maybe even some cash compared to taxis or ride-shares, especially during peak travel times. So, let's break down the Chicago airport to Union Station train journey, making it as easy as pie for you.

Getting to Union Station from O'Hare (ORD)

Alright, let's talk about O'Hare International Airport (ORD), because this is where the train magic really happens. Getting from O'Hare to Union Station by train is super convenient, and the star of the show is the CTA Blue Line. Now, I know you asked about the Metra, and we'll get to that, but the Blue Line is actually your primary public transit link from O'Hare to the downtown area, and from there you can easily connect to Union Station. Think of it as the express train for airport folks. You'll find the CTA Blue Line station located right in the airport, specifically in Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. It’s really well-signposted, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding it. Just follow the signs for ‘Trains’ or ‘CTA Trains’. Once you're down there, you’ll want to board the O’Hare branch of the Blue Line heading southbound towards Forest Park. This is crucial – make sure you’re going in the right direction! The Blue Line will take you directly into the Loop, Chicago's downtown business district. Your best bet for getting off at a convenient stop for Union Station is either Washington or Monroe. Both stops are just a few blocks' walk from Union Station. The ride itself takes about 45-50 minutes, depending on traffic and how many stops it makes. It’s a pretty smooth ride, and you get to see a bit of the city as you emerge from underground. The fare is currently around $5, and you can pay using a Ventra card or by purchasing a single-ride ticket. Remember, this is the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority), not Metra, but it’s the most direct and cost-effective train option from O’Hare to get you close to Union Station. You can then walk or take a very short taxi/rideshare to the actual station entrance if you prefer. Many travelers find this the easiest way to navigate the Chicago airport to Union Station train connection from O'Hare. It’s a classic Chicago experience, really. You’ll see locals commuting, so it’s a great way to feel like a part of the city, even for a short while. Plus, avoiding Chicago traffic is always a win in my book! So, keep an eye out for those Blue Line signs, grab your ticket, and enjoy the ride downtown. It’s a solid choice, guys.

From Midway (MDW) to Union Station

Now, let's switch gears and talk about Midway International Airport (MDW). If you're flying into Midway and your destination is Union Station, you've also got a fantastic train option. The key player here is the CTA Orange Line. Similar to O'Hare, Midway offers direct access to the city's 'L' train system, making your journey to Union Station incredibly accessible. The Orange Line station is conveniently located just a short walk from the main terminal at Midway. You'll see signs directing you towards the 'South Elevated Station' or 'Orange Line'. It’s a covered walkway, so no worries about the weather! Once you board the CTA Orange Line, you'll want to head northbound towards the Loop. This line will snake its way through the city, offering some elevated views (hence the 'L' nickname!) before plunging underground into the Loop. Your ideal stop for Union Station is State/Lake. This is a major transfer point in the Loop, and while it’s not directly at Union Station, it puts you in a prime position to get there easily. From State/Lake, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk to Union Station. Alternatively, you can hop off at other Loop stations like Clark/Lake or even Washington/Wabash and do a similar walk or a quick taxi/rideshare. The ride from Midway to the Loop on the Orange Line typically takes around 25-30 minutes, making it a bit quicker than the Blue Line from O'Hare. The fare is the same as the Blue Line, around $5, payable with a Ventra card or a single-ride ticket. This Orange Line train service is the most efficient way for Chicago airport to Union Station travel from Midway. It’s a reliable and affordable way to get your bearings and reach your destination without getting stuck in road traffic. Remember to check the CTA's schedule, especially if you're arriving late at night or very early in the morning, though the Orange Line generally runs frequently throughout the day. It’s a really straightforward process, and many people opt for this when they want to avoid the hassle of navigating downtown Chicago by car. So, if you land at Midway, just follow those Orange Line signs, and you'll be well on your way to Union Station.

Using Metra for the Chicago Airport to Union Station Train Experience

Okay, so you've heard about Metra, and you're wondering,