Arlington Heights Station
A key Metra station serving the vibrant downtown of Arlington Heights, offering commuter access and a gateway to local charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the rush for parking
Arlington Heights Station
Best Time
Beat the rush for parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A key Metra station serving the vibrant downtown of Arlington Heights, offering commuter access and a gateway to local charm.
"The station is really pretty but the parking payment system is extremely outdated."
💳 Payment Options
App payments may have extra fees. Bring exact change for in-person transactions or use the app wisely.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Parking fills up fast! Arrive early or be prepared to use nearby lots or alternative stations.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 46 reviews
Type
Train Station
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Downtown Arlington Heights
Adjacent to the station
Vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and community events. A hub for local life.
Metra Commuter Rail
The station itself
Connects you to Chicago and other suburbs. A vital link for daily commuters.
Local Boutiques & Eateries
Downtown Arlington Heights
Discover unique shops like Obsession boutique and enjoy diverse dining at places like Passero.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Arlington Heights Station
Weekend & Evening Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💳 Payment Options
App payments may have extra fees. Bring exact change for in-person transactions or use the app wisely.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Parking fills up fast! Arrive early or be prepared to use nearby lots or alternative stations.
⏰ Weekend Closures
Station is closed on Sundays. Plan your weekend travel accordingly.
📱 Download the App
Essential for card payments, but be mindful of potential extra charges.
Tips
from all over the internet
💳 Payment Options
App payments may have extra fees. Bring exact change for in-person transactions or use the app wisely.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Parking fills up fast! Arrive early or be prepared to use nearby lots or alternative stations.
⏰ Weekend Closures
Station is closed on Sundays. Plan your weekend travel accordingly.
📱 Download the App
Essential for card payments, but be mindful of potential extra charges.
🚶 Explore Downtown
Walkable from the station, offering shops and dining. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Arlington Heights Station is a functional transit hub with a pretty facade, but it falls short in user experience. Commuters face challenges with outdated payment systems, potential app fees, and limited parking. While the adjacent downtown area is a draw, the station's operational aspects, including weekend closures and inconsistent customer service, detract from its overall appeal.
"I tried out the station to see how it compared to other stations on this line and it definitely fall short. Other stations, you can put in a benefits card from an employer and it will charge you just two dollars just like if you had put in your own debit card. At this station though, you cannot pay in person unless you have coins—who has an infinite supply of quarters every day they go to work?— or get the app. And you have to pay not just two dollars on the app, but also a $0.41 fee. No way I’m paying that much. It definitely seems like they forgot about putting one of those machines at this train station and then figured the app would work and that they could probably get more off of people. But don’t be fooled because you don’t have to pay that fee."
Gabriel Brower
"Parking lot was full, but there were 2 nearly empty lots with special designations. I had to go to the next station at Mt. Prospect. It’s lot was also full! How can I ride Metra if they don’t provide adequate parking?"
l toni
"It’s a good station, but there’s no heat lamps and the station is closed on weekends."
Chescat Productions
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arlington Heights Station is a major Metra station serving the Union Pacific Northwest Line. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available, and is a central point for local bus routes. It's also conveniently located about 35 minutes from downtown Chicago and 20 minutes from O'Hare Airport.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during weekday rush hours. Some lots have special designations. If the main lots are full, you may need to consider nearby lots or alternative stations.
Parking fees are generally reasonable, often around $2 per day. However, the payment system can be outdated, and using the app might have minimum charges or additional fees.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed in the provided content, major transit hubs like Arlington Heights Station typically have connections to local bus services. It's best to check with local transit authorities for specific route information.
Arlington Heights Station is approximately a 20-minute drive from O'Hare International Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets in person at the station, but be aware that payment options are limited. You'll need exact change if paying with cash. Alternatively, you can use the Metra app, though this may incur additional fees.
According to user reviews, some stations allow payment with employer benefits cards for a reduced fare, but Arlington Heights Station may not support this in person. The app is the primary method for card payments.
The station is open during weekdays but is closed on weekends and Sundays. Plan your travel accordingly if you intend to use the station on a Saturday or Sunday.
Yes, reviews indicate that using the Metra app may come with an additional fee, such as a $0.41 charge on top of the ticket price.
The parking fee is generally around $2. However, the payment system can be problematic, with app payments potentially forcing a higher minimum charge.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
While the station is a functional transit point, some reviews mention a lack of amenities like heat lamps. Customer service can also be inconsistent, with one reviewer noting a rude employee.
The provided information doesn't detail accessibility features. However, as a major Metra station, it's likely to have some level of accessibility. It's recommended to check with Metra directly for specific needs.
The station itself is described as 'really pretty' by one reviewer. It serves as a gateway to the vibrant downtown area.
Yes, the station is adjacent to downtown Arlington Heights, which boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, including popular spots like Passero and Shakou. +1
Exploring the adjacent downtown area is highly recommended. You can find local boutiques, enjoy diverse culinary experiences, and experience the community vibe. +2
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit