It is the terminus for all three of Metra’s Union Pacific lines and in pre-COVID days served over 100,000 riders daily. It remains one of the nation’s busiest railway stations dedicated solely to commuter traffic. While the Ogilvie Transportation Center looks modern, its origins date back to 1911.
Over 100 years ago, the Chicago & North Western Railway built its terminus on this very spot. As today, it had 16 tracks elevated above street level. For decades, trains came into and out of the terminal from across the nation.
In 1984, the headhouse was replaced by the 42-story Accenture Tower (formerly Citigroup Center). Finally, in 1991, Metra purchased the train shed and over a period of four years rehabilitated the location.
The center is named after Richard B. Ogilvie, a lifelong railroad proponent, who, as governor of Illinois, created the RTA. Today, it is a welcoming destination for thousands of travelers and downtown workers. As part of Accenture Tower, there are retail stores, including an Amazon Go store, and a large, popular food court.
It’s also the gateway to Chicago’s French Market. Founded in 2009, the French Market brings a flavor of Europe to Chicago. With its 30+ vendors, travellers and area residents find an array of international culinary delights—many the product of local producers.
Brought to Chicago by the Bensidoun family, the largest Parisian market operator, the French Market was designated a Travelers’ Choice by
Tripadvisor and recommend by Restaurant Guru.
The French Market is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.