College Avenue Station Metra
A key Metra station on the UP-W line, connecting commuters to Downtown Chicago with nearby parking and suburban charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Catch your train to the city
College Avenue Station Metra
Best Time
Catch your train to the city
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A key Metra station on the UP-W line, connecting commuters to Downtown Chicago with nearby parking and suburban charm.
"Be prepared for potential train delays and ticketing issues; the Metra app is your best friend here. "
📱 Use the Passport App
For weekday parking, use the Passport Parking app. Know your license plate and zone number. :iphone:
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Station booth may not sell tickets; ticket machines can be unreliable. Use the app if possible. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Convenient Commuter Access
Union Pacific West (UP-W) Train Line
Direct access to Downtown Chicago via the UP-W line, making it a key transit point for commuters.
Proximity to Glen Ellyn
Near Glen Ellyn
Located close to the charming town of Glen Ellyn, offering a pleasant suburban atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Ticketing Hassles
Train Delays & Station Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📱 Use the Passport App
For weekday parking, use the Passport Parking app. Know your license plate and zone number. :iphone:
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Station booth may not sell tickets; ticket machines can be unreliable. Use the app if possible. :ticket:
What are some cute areas/towns off of the Metra?
📚 Bring Entertainment
Train rides to downtown Chicago are about 30-35 minutes. Pack a book or headphones. :headphones:
⚠️ Be Aware of Delays
Metra service can be inconsistent, so expect potential train delays. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
📱 Use the Passport App
For weekday parking, use the Passport Parking app. Know your license plate and zone number. :iphone:
🎟️ Buy Tickets in Advance
Station booth may not sell tickets; ticket machines can be unreliable. Use the app if possible. :ticket:
📚 Bring Entertainment
Train rides to downtown Chicago are about 30-35 minutes. Pack a book or headphones. :headphones:
⚠️ Be Aware of Delays
Metra service can be inconsistent, so expect potential train delays. :warning:
🚶♂️ Tunnel Access
The tunnel provides access to the west-bound track but has experienced flooding. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
College Avenue Station Metra serves as a functional transit point for commuters to Chicago, with convenient parking options and direct train access. However, travelers frequently encounter issues with ticket purchasing due to unreliable machines and a lack of service at the station booth, often necessitating the use of the Metra app. Train delays are also a common complaint, impacting the reliability of the service.
"Easy to park in commuter lot on the north side of tracks. If you are parking during the week it's best to use the passeport parking app and park via the app by knowing your license plate and zone # (posted on the light post). Entrance to depot is also accessible via the stairs in my photo.
The tunnel is not flooded as of 3/26/23 despite the rains. The train was however a few minutes delayed. Otherwise, positive experience @ College Ave (better parking versus the Wheaton stop. Trains to city arrive on the track closet to depot. Tunnel serves to access the west bound."
Kathleen Jarchow
"It’s strange that they have someone working at the College Ave booth, but they can’t sell tickets. It seems pointless to have someone there if they can’t assist with that. I went to the train station, and the ticket machine wasn’t working. What if my phone had died and I couldn’t buy a ticket through the app? The whole situation was chaotic. They really need to start selling tickets at the counter again."
adventurous
"The train is consistently late due to terrible Merta service. Currently the train tunnel is flooded and has been for now more than a month."
Ben Milford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
College Avenue Station is served by the Union Pacific West (UP-W) Train Line, providing direct service to Downtown Chicago. It's located approximately 1.8 miles from Glen Ellyn Station.
Yes, there is a commuter lot on the north side of the tracks. For weekday parking, it's recommended to use the Passport Parking app.
Zone numbers are typically posted on the light posts in the parking areas. You'll need this information for the Passport Parking app.
Absolutely! College Avenue Station is on the Union Pacific West (UP-W) line, which goes directly to Downtown Chicago. The ride is about 30-35 minutes.
Access to the station involves a tunnel, which has experienced flooding issues in the past. Trains to the city arrive on the track closest to the depot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's noted that the station booth may not sell tickets, and ticket machines can be unreliable. It's best to purchase tickets via the Metra mobile app or be prepared for potential issues.
While there are ticket machines, reviews indicate they can be unreliable or not working. It's advisable to have a backup plan, like the Metra app.
According to recent reviews, the person working at the booth cannot sell tickets, which has caused frustration for some passengers.
If the ticket machine is not working and the booth cannot sell tickets, you may need to rely on the Metra app. Ensure your phone is charged.
Ticket prices can vary based on the type of ticket (e.g., one-way, day pass). It's best to check the official Metra website or the Metra app for current fares.
🎫 🚆 Onsite Experience
Trains on the UP-W line run regularly, especially during weekday commute hours. It's recommended to check the Metra UP-W schedule for specific departure and arrival times.
Reviews suggest that Metra service can be inconsistent, and trains are sometimes delayed. It's wise to factor in potential delays when planning your journey.
Trains heading to the city typically arrive on the track closest to the depot.
The tunnel provides access to the west-bound track. While it has experienced flooding, it is generally used for station access.
Reviews suggest the station is functional but not particularly modern. There is a booth, but its ticketing capabilities are limited.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Commuters
Consider the 30-35 minute commute time when planning your schedule. Having entertainment like a book or music is a good idea to make the journey more enjoyable.
🚗 Day-Trippers to Chicago
Be mindful of potential train delays and the ticketing situation. It's best to have the Metra app ready to go. The ride into the city is about 30-35 minutes, giving you ample time to relax before exploring Chicago.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking and Ticketing
A significant recurring issue is the ticketing process. Multiple reviews mention that the station booth staff cannot sell tickets, and the ticket machines are often out of order. This forces passengers to rely heavily on the Metra mobile app, which can be problematic if your phone battery dies or you don't have a smartphone. Travelers express frustration with this lack of traditional ticketing options.
Key takeaway: Always have the Metra app downloaded and ensure your phone is charged, or consider purchasing tickets in advance if possible to avoid issues at the station.
Understanding Train Service and Station Access
Access to the station involves a tunnel that connects to the west-bound track. This tunnel has been noted for experiencing flooding issues, which can impact accessibility. Trains bound for the city usually arrive on the track closest to the depot, so pay attention to platform signage.
Pro Tip: Bring a book or download podcasts for your commute, as the travel time is sufficient for entertainment.
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