Metra Metropolitan Rail

Really cute, old station and particularly pleasant on a nice summer day. I’m not sure what it would be like in the winter. The attendant is only there in the morning, so I’m not sure if the station is open after noon. If it is, be aware that there doesn’t seem to be any security. There are not enough benches outside, which is tough when you’re waiting for an hourly train that you just missed! There is a little attached bakery, but it wasn’t open when I was there. Long story short, it’s very nice from a historical perspective, but it could be improved to be more serviceable for commuters.

This is actually a really nice station. It has a little mini «library» for patrons to take a book and return it whenever they’re finished with it. I like that it’s very close to some restaurants, in case you come early or want to grab a bite before your trip. The only thing wrong with this station is that sometimes the lady who you purchase your ticket from isn’t there when the signs say she will be, which can cause issues on the train later (it’s a higher fee for purchasing the ticket on the train if the train station is open). For the most part this has never been an issue for me, but you should always try to plan ahead. Other than that, it’s a great station, much better than Great Lakes.

The Lake Bluff Metra station is generally pleasant and useful.
Good: the building is attractive and comfortable, in a woodsy Craftsman style.
Bad: there are no benches to sit on at the outbound platform, as there are on the inbound side.
Good: a ticket seller is present in the morning weekdays, to early afternoon.
Bad: they lock the bathroom by early afternoon. Are they afraid I’ll steal the paper towels?
Good: the station is in the center of town. Within walking distance: a Friday farmer’s market, several restaurants, banks with ATMs, a brewpub, grocery/​deli, bike shop, post office, city park and public library. A small coffee shop is in the southern part of the station early on weekday mornings.
Bad: there isn’t anyplace within walking distance to get breakfast on a weekend before 9:00 AM.