Chicago earned its nickname as “America’s Railroad Capital” for good reason. With six major railroads, hundreds of daily trains, and some of the busiest rail junctions in the country, Chicago is a train watcher’s paradise. Whether you’re new to railfanning or have been doing it for years, this guide will help you find the best spots to watch trains in and around the Windy City.
In this guide, you’ll learn where to safely watch trains, when to visit each location, and what kinds of trains you can expect to see. We’ll explore famous spots like the Roosevelt Road Bridge, where you can watch Amtrak’s long-distance trains glide under the Chicago skyline, and hidden gems like the Blue Island junction, where freight trains meet in a historic railway hub. You’ll also find practical tips about parking, photography, and staying safe near the tracks.
What makes Chicago special for railfanning is how different types of trains come together here. On any given day, you might see everything from sleek passenger trains to long freight trains carrying goods across the country. We’ll show you exactly where to go to see these trains and help you understand the patterns of railroad traffic throughout the day.
Best Spots to Watch Trains
Roosevelt Road Bridge
The Roosevelt Road Bridge is one of Chicago’s most popular train watching spots. From this bridge, you can see both Amtrak and Metra commuter trains heading in and out of Union Station. The bridge has a wide sidewalk where you can safely watch trains passing below. The best photos happen in the morning when the sun is behind you, lighting up the trains perfectly. You can get here easily by taking the Roosevelt CTA station, and there’s plenty of street parking if you drive. Remember to stay on the public sidewalk and never climb on any structures.
16th Street Tower in Blue Island
This historic spot in Blue Island offers views of three different railroads: CSX, Indiana Harbor Belt, and Union Pacific. The old control tower makes an awesome backdrop for your train pictures. Visit in the late afternoon when the sun gives everything a golden glow. You’ll find easy parking along 135th Street. On busy days, you might see up to 30 trains pass by. The area has a small park nearby where you can rest between trains.
Bensenville Railroad Park
If you want to see Canadian Pacific and Canadian National trains, head to Bensenville Railroad Park. This spot is special because you can watch both trains and planes – O’Hare Airport is right nearby! The park has benches, free parking, and a safe distance from the tracks. Morning and late afternoon give you the best lighting for photos. Many trains slow down here, giving you plenty of time to take pictures.
La Grange Road Station
This is where BNSF’s three-track main line runs through the western suburbs. The station area has a platform that’s perfect for watching trains, and you’ll see both Metra commuters and long freight trains. Many railfans like this spot because there’s a coffee shop nearby and lots of trains during rush hour. The afternoon sun makes westbound trains look spectacular.
Canal Street
Along Canal Street, you’ll find several good spots to watch trains entering and leaving Union Station. The street runs parallel to the tracks, and there are many safe places to stand and watch. Morning is the best time here, as you’ll see tons of commuter trains bringing people into the city. The area around 18th Street gives you a great view of trains curving through the city with Chicago’s skyline in the background.
Western Avenue Crossing
This busy spot is where multiple rail lines cross paths. You can see trains from Union Pacific, Canadian National, and Metra throughout the day. There’s a small parking lot nearby, and you’re allowed to watch from the public areas. Visit in the morning when the sun lights up the tracks from the east. During rush hour, you might see a train every few minutes.
Roger Puta photo, Marty Bernard Collection
Major Railroads in Chicago
Chicago is like a giant railroad crossroads where trains from all over North America meet. Think of it as a busy airport, but for trains instead of planes. Every day, more than 500 freight trains and 800 passenger trains pass through Chicago’s rail network. Each railroad has its own special jobs, unique locomotive colors, and favorite routes through the city. Some carry people to work, while others haul everything from new cars to grain across the country. Let’s look at each railroad that calls Chicago home.
BNSF Railway
BNSF is one of the busiest railroads in Chicago. Their main line runs west from Union Station through suburbs like La Grange, Naperville, and Aurora. Every day, BNSF moves hundreds of containers from ports on the West Coast to Chicago’s rail yards. You’ll spot their orange and black locomotives pulling both freight and Metra commuter trains. The busiest times are during morning and evening rush hours, when freight trains share the tracks with commuter trains.
Union Pacific Railroad
Union Pacific (UP) runs three main routes out of Chicago. Their north line goes to Wisconsin, their northwest line heads to Iowa, and their west line travels to Nebraska. Look for their bright yellow locomotives at their massive Proviso Yard in Melrose Park. UP also shares their tracks with Metra trains on the north, northwest, and west lines. The best place to see UP trains is from the Bensenville viewing area, where trains slow down as they enter the yard.
Norfolk Southern
Norfolk Southern’s main Chicago terminal is at 47th Street, where trains from the East Coast arrive with everything from new cars to shipping containers. Their dark blue locomotives are easy to spot. The railroad connects Chicago with cities like New York and Atlanta. You can watch Norfolk Southern trains from several safe spots along Pershing Road, especially in the morning when many trains arrive from overnight trips.
CSX Transportation
CSX brings trains into Chicago from the East Coast through their terminal in Bedford Park. Their blue and gray locomotives often carry freight from ports like New York and Baltimore. The Blue Island junction is perfect for watching CSX trains, as many slow down to switch tracks there. They’re busiest in the middle of the day, when most of their freight trains pass through Chicago.
Canadian National
Canadian National (CN) uses the former Illinois Central tracks that run near Lake Michigan. Their routes connect Chicago with Canada and the Gulf Coast. You’ll recognize their gray and red locomotives moving through the south suburbs. The best viewing spot is in Homewood, where trains pass by the old Illinois Central station. CN is especially busy in the afternoon when trains from Canada arrive.
Canadian Pacific-Kansas City
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) trains run on tracks from Bensenville to Elgin. Many of their trains carry grain and containers between Canada and the United States. Watch them from the Bensenville Railroad Park, where trains often change crews.
Belt Railway of Chicago
The Belt Railway is Chicago’s hidden gem. It’s a switching railroad that helps move cars between all the other railroads. Their orange locomotives work in pairs, building trains in the massive Clearing Yard. While they don’t travel far, they’re fascinating to watch as they sort train cars like a giant puzzle. The best viewing spot is near 63rd Street, where you can see them organizing cars.
Metra
While not a freight railroad, Metra is a huge part of Chicago railroading. Their silver and blue commuter trains run on 11 different lines, sharing tracks with freight trains. They carry thousands of people in and out of Chicago every day. During rush hours (6-9 AM and 4-7 PM), you’ll see Metra trains every few minutes at most stations.
Amtrak
Amtrak’s long-distance passenger trains connect Chicago with cities across America. Their silver and blue locomotives pull trains like the California Zephyr to San Francisco and the Empire Builder to Seattle. The best place to see Amtrak trains is near Union Station, especially in the afternoon when most long-distance trains depart. Look for their newer Charger locomotives, which are painted in a sharp blue and gray design.
When Railroads Are Busiest
- Early Morning (5-9 AM): Metra commuter trains and overnight freight arrivals
- Mid-Morning (9 AM-Noon): Mixed freight traffic, some Amtrak departures
- Afternoon (Noon-4 PM): Heavy freight traffic on all railroads
- Evening Rush (4-7 PM): More Metra trains, Amtrak long-distance departures
- Night (7 PM-Midnight): Freight trains building up for overnight trips
Best Times for Train Photography in Chicago
Understanding Light and Timing
Getting great train photos means thinking about both when trains run and where the sun is in the sky. In Chicago, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, which means the light changes throughout the day. You’ll want the sun behind you or to your side when taking pictures – this lights up the trains instead of leaving them in shadow. Remember that the sun’s position also changes with the seasons, so spots that work great in summer might be tricky in winter.
Morning Photography (6 AM – 11 AM)
The early morning is perfect for photographing trains along these routes:
- Roosevelt Road Bridge: The sunrise lights up trains heading into Union Station
- Canal Street: Morning light makes the city backdrop shine
- Western Avenue crossings: You’ll catch commuter trains in perfect light
- Homewood Station: Great for catching Canadian National trains heading north
During these hours, you’ll see lots of Metra trains bringing people downtown for work. Freight trains that traveled overnight are also finishing their trips into the city.
Midday Photography (11 AM – 2 PM)
Midday can be tricky for photos because the sun is directly overhead, which creates harsh shadows. However, these spots work well:
- Union Station: The covered platforms help avoid harsh shadows
- Bensenville viewing area: Good angles even with overhead sun
- Blue Island junction: Trees provide some shade for better shots
This is when you’ll see the most freight traffic, especially container trains heading to and from the yards.
Afternoon Photography (2 PM – 6 PM)
The afternoon light makes these western-facing spots ideal:
- La Grange Road: Perfect for westbound BNSF trains
- Riverside Station: Beautiful lighting on Metra trains
- Berkeley crossing: Great shots of Union Pacific trains
- 16th Street Tower: Amazing light on CSX and other freight trains
You’ll catch both the afternoon rush of Metra trains and long-distance Amtrak trains leaving the city.
Evening Photography (6 PM – Sunset)
The “golden hour” before sunset gives everything a warm glow. Try these spots:
- Rondout junction: Beautiful light on freight trains
- Buffalo Grove: Union Pacific trains catch the setting sun
- McCook: BNSF trains look spectacular in evening light
Seasonal Tips
- Spring: Sun rises around 6:30 AM and sets around 7:30 PM
- More daylight than winter
- Watch for spring storms that can make dramatic backgrounds
- Summer: Sun rises around 5:30 AM and sets around 8:30 PM
- Longest shooting hours
- Morning light is best before it gets too hot
- Watch for heat waves that can create interesting effects in photos
- Fall: Sun rises around 7:00 AM and sets around 6:00 PM
- Beautiful fall colors in backgrounds
- Less harsh midday sun
- More freight trains as holiday shipping picks up
- Winter: Sun rises around 7:30 AM and sets around 4:30 PM
- Shorter days mean planning is important
- Snow can make amazing photos
- Cold weather creates nice steam effects from engines
- Sun stays lower in sky, giving good light all day
Special Photo Opportunities
- Rush hour: 6-9 AM and 4-7 PM for lots of Metra action
- Track maintenance windows: Trains often slow down or stop
- Holiday weekends: Special paint schemes on some trains
- Crew change points: Trains stop longer, giving you time to set up shots
- After rain: Shiny rails and dramatic skies make great photos
- Foggy mornings: Create mysterious, moody shots
Remember to dress for the weather and bring water in summer and warm clothes in winter. Taking good train photos means being patient and comfortable while you wait for the perfect shot.
Safe Train Watching in Chicago
Train watching in Chicago can be an exciting hobby, but it’s important to always put safety first. Trains are powerful machines that can’t stop quickly, and railroad property can be dangerous for visitors who don’t know the rules. The good news is that Chicago offers many safe and legal places to watch trains without putting yourself at risk. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced railfan, understanding where and how to watch trains safely will make your hobby more enjoyable. This guide will show you the best spots to watch trains while keeping you out of harm’s way.
Public Viewing Areas
Chicago offers several spots designed specifically for train watching. These safe locations let you enjoy the railroads without worry about trespassing or dangerous situations.
Bensenville Railroad Park stands out as one of the best safe spots in the Chicago area. The park was built with train watchers in mind, featuring a paved viewing area complete with comfortable benches. There’s plenty of free parking, and you’ll have a clear view of multiple tracks from a safe distance. The park even includes restroom facilities and good lighting for evening viewing.
At La Grange Stone Avenue Station, the Metra platform provides an excellent safe watching spot. You’ll need to buy a platform ticket from the station, but this gives you legal access to watch trains throughout the day. The platform includes clearly marked safety lines and designated waiting areas that keep you well away from passing trains.
The Roosevelt Road Bridge remains one of Chicago’s most popular safe viewing locations. Its wide public sidewalk gives plenty of room for watching trains, and sturdy railings provide protection while you’re viewing. The bridge’s elevation offers an excellent vantage point above the tracks, and the area stays well-lit even after dark. Regular police patrols add an extra layer of security, and the spot’s easy access to public transit makes it convenient to visit.
Where Not to Watch
While Chicago has many great spots for train watching, some areas should always be avoided. Railroad bridges without public sidewalks are strictly off-limits. Active railroad yards might seem interesting, but they’re dangerous and off-limits to the public. Never watch trains from tunnels or sharp track curves where trains might appear suddenly. If you need to cross tracks to reach a spot, that’s a clear sign it’s not a safe place to watch.
Basic Safety Guidelines
Safety always comes first when watching trains. Never walk on railroad tracks or railroad property – this rule has no exceptions. Keep at least 25 feet back from any track, giving yourself plenty of space if trains pass by. When watching with children, keep them close and hold their hands near platforms or viewing areas.
Your hearing matters for safety, so leave your headphones off while train watching. This helps you hear approaching trains and announcements. Avoid climbing on any equipment or poles, even if they might offer a better view. The standard platforms and viewing areas provide safe spots to see everything you need.
Weather and Train Watching
Chicago’s changing weather requires different safety approaches throughout the year. Summer days need plenty of water and sun protection, while winter watching calls for warm layers and boots with good grip. During rain, platforms and viewing areas can become slippery, so take extra care when moving around. In snowy conditions, stay further back from the tracks than usual to avoid spray from snow plows. If you hear thunder, pack up immediately and seek shelter – no train photo is worth risking lightning danger.
Essential Safety Gear
A successful and safe day of train watching requires some basic preparation. Wear bright colored clothing to stay visible to others, especially in low light. Choose comfortable shoes that grip well on different surfaces. Always bring water and some snacks, even for short visits. Keep your phone fully charged for emergencies, and consider bringing a basic first aid kit for minor issues. During darker days or late afternoon watching, a flashlight can help you navigate safely.
Group Safety
Train watching becomes safer and more enjoyable when done with friends, but keep your group manageable. A group of four to six people works best – large enough for safety but small enough to move quickly if needed. Stay together and help each other spot potential hazards. Keep conversations at a reasonable volume near crossings so everyone can hear approaching trains. Experienced train watchers should share safety tips with newcomers to help build good habits.
Photography Safety
For photographers, additional safety rules apply. Always use your camera strap to prevent accidental drops onto tracks or platforms. Keep your equipment bag close to avoid creating trip hazards for others. Never lean over railings for a photo – if you can’t get the shot safely, let it go. Flash photography near moving trains can distract crews, so avoid using flash. When using headphones to monitor radio traffic, keep one ear free to hear your surroundings.
Remember that even the most amazing train photo isn’t worth putting yourself in danger. If you’re unsure about a location’s safety, find another spot to watch. Chicago offers plenty of safe and legal places to enjoy watching trains while staying out of harm’s way.
Chicago Awaits!
Chicago’s railroads tell the story of America’s growth, and watching trains here connects you to that rich history. From the morning rush of commuter trains to late-night freight movements, each train passing through the city carries its own story. Whether you’re watching from the Roosevelt Road Bridge as Amtrak’s California Zephyr starts its journey west, or counting container trains at Bensenville Railroad Park, you’re part of a community that appreciates these powerful machines.
Remember that the best train watching experiences come when you take your time. Each season brings different opportunities – from summer evenings with long daylight hours to winter mornings when locomotive exhaust creates dramatic scenes in the cold air. Don’t feel pressured to visit every location at once. Start with one or two safe spots, learn their patterns, and gradually explore more places as you get comfortable.
Join local railfan groups, share your experiences, and learn from others who enjoy this hobby. Chicago’s railroad landscape keeps changing, but the thrill of watching trains remains the same as it was when the first locomotives rolled through the city. By following the safety guidelines in this guide and respecting railroad property, you’ll be able to enjoy train watching for years to come.
Most importantly, every day brings different trains, different weather, and different stories. That’s what makes railfanning in Chicago special – you never know what might come rolling down the tracks next. So grab your camera, bring some water, and head out to your nearest safe viewing spot. The trains of Chicago are waiting for you.