Kids Ride Free Until Labor Day With New Metra Program

ILLINOIS — As part of the commuter rail service's summer expansion, Metra will offer free rides for children traveling with an adult until Labor Day.

Officials from Metra announced the extension of their Family Fares program on Wednesday, citing summer break and Chicago's impending full reopening as reasons for more family trips to and from the city.

The program allows up to three children 11 years old and under to ride for free with at least one adult.

"Metra is for more than the work commute it's also for fun," said Metra CEO Jim Derwinski. "Traveling on our trains is a terrific opportunity to spend time together as a family without having to worry about traffic and parking."

Full Saturday schedules were renewed on most Metra lines last weekend after nearly two years of limited service and low ridership. Metra will continue to offer a $7 Saturday or Sunday pass and the regular $10 Weekend Pass for unlimited rides on both Saturday and Sunday. Discounted passes can be used in addition to the Family Fares program.

Schedules and more information about using the Metra system are available at metrarail.com.