Check out www.justoffthetracks.com a guide of things to see & do within walking distance of the Metra Train Stations. We have started with the Northwest Pacific line and are expanding to include all lines. Here is a sample excursion-

Progressive Dinner in Woodstock

Start you evening at the Woodstock Public House, minutes from the Metra Station. There is a short flight of steps down to the restaurant. We suggest grabbing one of the tables in the bar area. The atmosphere is warm and inviting and the servers are friendly. The menu features a nice array of starters and seasonal appetizers you will not want to overlook. There is a great selection of draft beers to choose from. The Public House also offers over 30 types of martinis. To get to the Woodstock Public House head west on West Church Street, and left on Main Street. The restaurant will be on the right.

228 Main Street Woodstock, IL 60098 815-337-9100

Got a free weekend? Like trains? Sick of unpredictable and overpriced air travel? Amtrak offers car-free Chicagoans plenty of chances to make a quick one- or two-day weekend escape with "red-eye" (overnight) trains from Chicago to several cities that are a few hundred miles away. I like traveling overnight, since it offers maximum sightseeing time at your destination and cuts back on expensive hotel stays.