Lasalle Street Station

ChicagoUnited States of America 41° N · 87° W

LaSalle Street Station stands as a pivotal landmark in Chicago, embodying the city's rich transportation heritage and vibrant urban transformation.

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Lasalle Street Station
1888 map of Chicago Loop showing location of the Auditorium venue of 1888 Republican National Convention
Historical 1888 map of Chicago Loop highlighting the Auditorium building, the venue of the 1888 Republican National Convention, published in South Kansas Tribune on June 27, 1888
Al Smith arriving in Chicago for the 1932 Democratic National Convention
Historical photo of Al Smith arriving in Chicago for the 1932 Democratic National Convention, capturing a significant moment in U.S. political history.
Al Smith arriving in Chicago for 1932 Democratic National Convention
Historic photo of Al Smith arriving in Chicago for the 1932 Democratic National Convention, capturing a significant political moment in U.S. history.
Al Smith arriving in Chicago for 1932 Democratic National Convention
Historic black and white photograph of Al Smith arriving at the 1932 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
Al Smith arriving in Chicago for 1932 Democratic National Convention
Historic photo of Al Smith arriving in Chicago for the 1932 Democratic National Convention, capturing a significant moment in American political history.
Al Smith arriving in Chicago with Ms. Smith for the 1932 Democratic National Convention
Alfred E. Smith accompanied by Ms. Smith arrives in Chicago on June 22, 1932, ahead of the Democratic National Convention held on June 27, where he declared his candidacy for President and called for repeal of the Eighteenth Amendment and changes to the Volstead Act.
Chicago cityscape with architectural views during the 1888 National Republican Convention
Historic image of Chicago, Illinois featuring city views and architecture during the 1888 National Republican Convention as depicted in Harper's Weekly.
Chicago cityscape looking south showing architecture during the National Republican Convention 1888
Historical Chicago cityscape looking south highlighting architecture during the 1888 National Republican Convention
Chicago Tribune newspaper page 36 from Saturday, March 26, 1927
Front page of Chicago Tribune newspaper, issue dated Saturday, March 26, 1927, featuring news and articles from that day.
Edward J. Kelly and his wife returning to Chicago at LaSalle Street Station in 1927 after Europe trip
Historical photo of Edward J. Kelly and wife arriving at LaSalle Street Station, Chicago on March 25, 1927, after their trip to Europe, as featured in Chicago Tribune.
View of The Chicago Stock Exchange and LaSalle Street Train Station from the Sears Tower
A panoramic image of The Chicago Stock Exchange and LaSalle Street Train Station captured from the Sears Tower showcasing Chicago's architecture
Old LaSalle Street Station building with classical architectural details and illuminated façade at dusk
Photograph of the Old LaSalle Street Station in Chicago showcasing its classical architecture and illuminated exterior at dusk

What LaSalle Street Station Is

LaSalle Street Station is a major commuter rail station in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, at 414 South LaSalle Street (414 S. LaSalle Street). Integrated into the base of a modern office building, it primarily serves Metra’s Rock Island District line. Its position in the financial district has made it an important part of Chicago’s transportation network and urban development (Chicago.gov; Metra).

History and Significance

Established in 1852 by the Chicago & Rock Island Railroad, the station was built as a link between Chicago and the western territories. Its location on LaSalle Street gave passengers direct access to the business district and connections to other railroads and transit options (Chicago.gov).

The station’s architecture changed substantially over time. Its wooden beginnings gave way to a structure built with fire-resistant materials after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed the 1866 station. The best-known version was a grand Beaux-Arts terminal designed by Frost & Granger. Opened in 1903, it featured soaring waiting rooms and a monumental façade (American Rails; Wikipedia).

In 1981, the Beaux-Arts structure was demolished and replaced by a modern, functional station beneath an office tower at 414 South LaSalle Street (Chicago Rails Blog).

LaSalle Street Station helped establish the Loop as a financial center. Its rail connections attracted businesses and financial institutions, contributing to LaSalle Street’s reputation as the “Wall Street of the Midwest.” As intercity rail declined after World War II, the station adapted to commuter service and continued to support downtown Chicago’s vitality (Chicago.gov).

As one of Chicago’s major passenger terminals, it served legendary trains, including the Rock Island’s “Rocket” streamliners. At its peak, the station handled over 200 trains and 50,000 passengers daily, and influenced rail terminal design nationwide (American Rails). It remains a vital commuter link.

What to See and Do

The present-day station is functional, with an open-air concourse and a small indoor area for ticket windows, a waiting room, and a grill serving refreshments (Chicago Railfan).

LaSalle Street is a historic corridor with buildings eligible for Historic Tax Credits, adaptive reuse projects, enhanced streetscapes, public art, and seasonal street fairs. The station and surrounding financial district are part of a neighborhood undergoing change, including new mixed-income housing and the adaptive reuse of office spaces.

The station itself does not offer guided tours, but local companies run architectural and historical walking tours that include it. Images, virtual tours, and interactive maps are available through the official City of Chicago website and Metra’s platform.

Chicago has invested over $900 million in projects to revitalize the LaSalle Street corridor. These efforts aim to balance preservation of its historic character with modern urban needs (Chicago.gov).

Practical Visiting Information

Location, hours, and access

The main station entrance is at 414 S. LaSalle Street. Station access is generally from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily, in line with Metra schedules. Ticket windows are staffed during weekday peak hours; check the Metra LaSalle Street Station page for current details.

LaSalle Street itself is a public street and is accessible 24/7. Street access does not require a ticket, though some attractions and tours may charge admission. Check individual landmark hours.

Tickets and fares

Tickets for Metra’s Rock Island District line are available:

  • At ticket windows during staffed hours
  • From on-site vending machines
  • Digitally through the Ventra app, which is recommended to avoid surcharges

Use Metra’s fare calculator to determine fares by travel zone (Metra; MapQuest).

Facilities, accessibility, and safety

The station has limited restroom availability, especially outside peak hours. Elevators, ramps, and tactile signage support travelers with disabilities; contact Metra in advance about specific needs. Bicycle racks and bus connections provide additional travel options (American Rails).

There is no luggage storage, so keep belongings with you. A small grill is on-site; more dining options are available nearby in the financial district.

  • Emergency Call 911 or Metra Police at 312-322-2800. The MetraCOPS app is available.
  • Non-emergency Metra Safety at 312-322-6900 x7233 or [email protected]
  • Customer service Available during operating hours. The RTA Travel Information Center can be reached at 312-836-7000 (Metra).

Connections

The station connects with CTA bus and ‘L’ services, including the adjacent LaSalle/Van Buren ‘L’ station, served by the Brown, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines. The Blue Line, which connects to O’Hare Airport, is a short walk away, and multiple CTA bus routes serve the area (Metra).

Visitor Tips

  • Look for wayfinding signs beneath the CTA elevated structure at LaSalle and Van Buren (Chicago Railfan).
  • Expect limited waiting areas and restroom access, particularly outside peak hours.
  • Arrive early during rush hours.
  • Weekdays are busier; weekends offer a quieter atmosphere.
  • The LaSalle Street area is described as well-lit and active. CTA services and the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus offer ways to navigate the area.
  • Visitors have highlighted the station’s efficiency, central location, digital ticketing, reliable service, and accessibility. Some report limited amenities and occasional restroom access issues, especially during off-peak hours (MapQuest).
  • For current visiting hours, ticketing options, and travel information, consult official resources or download the Audiala app.

Nearby Places

Nearby landmarks include the Chicago Board of Trade Building and the Rookery Building (Choose Chicago). Other attractions include:

The station is a convenient starting point for exploring the financial district and South Loop. The surrounding area’s development has supported economic activity and neighborhood growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the visiting hours for LaSalle Street Station?
The station is generally open from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Check Metra’s website for current details.

How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available at staffed windows, vending machines, and through the Ventra app.

Is the station accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Yes. Elevators and ramps are available, along with tactile signage. Contact Metra in advance about specific needs.

Are there guided tours?
There are no official station tours, but local companies include the station in architectural and historical walking tours.

What amenities are available?
Amenities include a limited waiting area, restrooms, and a grill for light refreshments.