NextStop Blog

The new year is already shaping up to be an exciting time across the St. Louis region. From January 4-11, the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships return to our city, drawing more than 60,000 visitors including athletes, families, and fans from across the nation.

This championship is one of the biggest skating events in the country, serving as the final qualifier for the U.S. Olympic Team headed to the Winter Olympics in Italy.

What This Means for Metro Commuters

Many visitors will arrive through St. Louis Lambert Airport over the next week and we expect a lot of them to choose MetroLink to get downtown, to hotels, and to Enterprise Center where the final rounds of competition will take place.

Here’s what you should know as a Metro rider:

• Expect higher passenger volumes on eastbound trains especially during morning and evening rush hours from Jan. 5–11.

• Trains and buses may feel more crowded than usual during peak event days.
• Riders might notice longer waits at ticket vending machines and spikes in platform traffic downtown.
• Consider giving yourself extra travel time if you’re heading to work, appointments, or making bus connections.

Visitors will be headed to these downtown stations:

• Civic Center (closest to Enterprise Center)
• Union Station (hotels & attractions)
• Laclede’s Landing / Stadium / Convention Center (lodging & dining)

Trip Tips:

1. Our Transit Info Specialist can answer your transit questions and offer assistance with travel planning – call them at 314.231.2345 or text 314.207.9786
2. Use TransitApp to purchase mobile fare, check schedules, and see real-time locations of your bus or MetroLink.
3. If you see something suspicious, report it to a nearby Public Safety team member at anytime: (Call) 314-289-6873 (Text) 314-300-0188