So, You Wanna Be First on the Metra?
Let’s talk about the age-old question that plagues the minds of Chicago commuters: How early is too early to board a Metra train?
The Early Bird Catches the... Empty Seat?
You'd think arriving at the station when the cows are still grazing would guarantee you a prime spot, right? Wrong. Turns out, Chicagoans have a peculiar knack for early rising, especially when it comes to beating the rush hour crowd.
There’s a certain breed of commuter who arrives at the station looking like they've just escaped a zombie apocalypse, complete with puffy eyes and a questionable choice in morning attire. These are the people who seem to have mastered the art of time travel, arriving at the station before the station master even thinks about showing up.
The Golden Hour (Or Minute)
The optimal time to arrive at the station is a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations of Metra riders. Some say it’s 15 minutes before departure, others swear by 5. Personally, I prefer to err on the side of caution and show up 10 minutes early. This gives me enough time to grab a coffee, people-watch, and maybe even strike up a conversation with the friendly neighborhood pigeon.
But here’s the kicker: Even if you arrive at the station when the first rays of sunlight are kissing the city skyline, there's still a chance you’ll find yourself squeezed into a car like a sardine. It’s a cruel, cruel world.
The Art of Platform Etiquette
Once you've successfully navigated your way to the platform, it’s time to play the waiting game. This is where your social skills will be put to the test. Do you stand near the door, hoping to be the first one on? Or do you strategically position yourself in the middle, avoiding the human stampede? The choice is yours, but remember, there's no guarantee of a front-row seat.
A word of advice: Don't be that person who pushes their way onto the train before everyone else. It’s not cool, and it might result in some serious side-eye.
How to...
- How to avoid rush hour? Check the Metra schedule and plan your commute accordingly.
- How to find the least crowded car? Observe the platform and board a car that looks less packed.
- How to secure a seat? Be quick and assertive, but polite.
- How to survive the commute? Invest in noise-canceling headphones, a good book, or a meditation app.
- How to enjoy the ride? Look out the window, people-watch, or simply relax.
Remember, the Metra is a great way to get around Chicago, but it's also a microcosm of human behavior. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Or at least try to.