Bedroom
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
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Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £34 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £34, while a flight costs an average of £185.
Distance: 263 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£52 Average Price | £34 Average Price Cheapest | £185 Average Price | £36 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 7m Average total duration 4h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration 3h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is a coach with an average price of £34.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN:
A coach is £17 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN costing on average £52.
A coach is £151 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN costing on average £185.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Indianapolis, IN take longer:
Coach takes on average 3h 54m.
Train takes on average 4h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £52 compared to roughly £36 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-15.10. The journey takes 4h 37m versus 2h 45m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | 17:55 Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 4h54 | 23:49 Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £27 but you can travel from only £21 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 17:55. The fastest train covers the 263 km distance in 4h 54m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £21
Distance 263 km |
Average train duration 4h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £27 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 4h 54m |
First train 6:00 |
Last train 17:55 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 35 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £21
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN from £21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
4h 54m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£27
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN from £21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
4h 54m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£27
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
What's included in each class
Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.
Business Class Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
- WC
Business Travel Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Coach Lower Level Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Reserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
Coach Unreserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Family Bedroom
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Superliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Viewliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Complete guide to Indianapolis, IN
Things to do in Indianapolis, IN
Discover the best of Indianapolis, IN — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Indianapolis, IN trip today.
- Must visit
Newfields
A major art museum campus with global collections, design, historic homes and extensive grounds for both gallery visits and outdoor walks.
- Recommended
Indiana State Museum
A hands-on museum focused on Indiana history, with rotating exhibitions and family-friendly displays in White River State Park.
- Recommended
Eskenazi Museum of Art
A university art museum with European, Asian and African works, suited to a quieter cultural stop near downtown.
- Must visit
Mass Ave
A lively downtown entertainment district with restored warehouses, public art, nightlife and easy access to major venues.
- Must visit
Central Canal
A landmark urban canal for walking, cycling and boat rides, linking museums, parks and skyline views near downtown.
- Recommended
Eagle Creek Park
A spacious urban park with trails, gardens, sports areas and riverside scenery, popular with locals for relaxed outdoor time.
Indiana Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet served on a bun, often comically larger than the bread. It is a long-standing Central Indiana pub and diner staple.
Sugar Cream Pie
A sugary cream pie with vanilla custard filling, whipped topping and nutmeg. It is widely regarded as Indiana’s signature state pie.
- Vegetarian
Fried Morel Mushrooms
Chunks of morel mushrooms, usually lightly floured and fried in butter or oil. In Indiana, spring morel season is a treasured local food tradition.
St. Elmo Steak House
Beloved old-school steakhouse and lunch counter celebrated for its shrimp cocktail and straightforward Midwestern dining in a historic setting.
Bluebeard
Refined Midwestern restaurant known for seasonal Indiana ingredients, inventive plating and a polished yet relaxed dining room in downtown Indianapolis.
Sun King Brewery
Lively brewery and taproom for locally made craft beer, especially Cream Ale, with casual food and a sociable city-centre atmosphere.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a US city. Hotels and dining are mid-priced, while car use is common and public transport is limited for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually get 10-15%. In cafés, small change or $1 per drink is common.
FAQs: Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Indianapolis, IN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £27, while the average price tends to be around £52.
The train from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN takes 4h 54m and runs once a day.
The train distance from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is 263 km.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN leaves at 6:00.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN departs at 17:55.
Trains from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN run approximately 1 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Indianapolis, IN is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, and it arrives at Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is by coach, costing approximately £21.
Booking trains from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Travellers can enjoy views of the Chicago skyline as the train departs, followed by glimpses of the Indiana countryside, with its fields and small towns along the way.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 54m and the distance is 263 km. The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Indianapolis, you can explore the vast art collections and beautiful gardens at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, attend a thrilling race at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, or engage with interactive exhibits at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. The Indianapolis Zoo offers animal habitats and a dolphin pavilion, while White River State Park provides a scenic walk along the canal with cultural attractions.
For a fulfilling experience in Indianapolis, IN, plan for 2 to 3 days to explore key attractions such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, and the Indianapolis Zoo.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN
Most Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN trains use the Union Station to Indianapolis Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Indianapolis
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Indianapolis, IN leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN leave from Union Station. The station is 3 km from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · £3 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Which Indianapolis, IN station do trains from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN arrive at Indianapolis Station. Indianapolis Station is 1 km from Indianapolis, IN city centre.
Indianapolis Station350 S Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Indianapolis Station from Indianapolis city centre
BusIndyGo routes available nearby
Indianapolis Station train station facilities and services
Indianapolis Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Harry & Izzy's, St. Elmo Steak House
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Indianapolis Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Indianapolis Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Indianapolis Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Indianapolis Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union-Stn, Omni Severin Hotel, The Westin Indianapolis.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Indianapolis, IN and Chicago, IL
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