Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Thu 27 Aug
+ Add return
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for 27 Aug

Cheapest price

£199

Average price

£199

Fastest journey

5 h

Average duration

5 h

Trains per day

1

Distance

263 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL will cost around £199 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £199.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Indianapolis, IN for Chicago, IL every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 263 km distance in an average of 5 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h .

The slowest trains will take 5 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak51 Cardinal
    6:255h00
    Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN
    10:25Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    £1991One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £22, and a flight costs an average of £62.

Distance: 263 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach
Flight

£76

Average Price

£35

Average Price

Cheapest

£201

Average Price

4h 52m

Average total duration

4h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 26m

Average total duration

3h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 24m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Republic Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Compare prices and tickets Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL 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 Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £29 but you can travel from only £22 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 5h 0m.

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 £22
Distance
263 km
Average train duration
4h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
£29
Trains per day
1
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 0m
First train
6:00
Last train
17:55
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
56 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 £22

Train companies: Amtrak from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Indianapolis, IN and Chicago, IL from £22. 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 Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
£29
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

Complete guide to Chicago, IL

Things to do in Chicago, IL

Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.

  • Must visit

Art Institute of Chicago

Major art museum with global collections, notable Impressionist works, and a landmark setting beside Millennium Park.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science and Industry

Science museum in Jackson Park with hands-on exhibits, a U-505 submarine, and broad appeal for families and curious adults.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Natural history museum on the Museum Campus, known for dinosaur fossils, gem displays, and wide-ranging science exhibits.

US dollar ($)

Expensive by US city standards: hotels, dining and attractions add up, though buses and the 'L' help keep daily costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
$80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafés if table service is given.

FAQs: Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £29, while the average price tends to be around £76.
The train from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL takes 5h 0m and runs once a day.
The train distance from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL is 263 km.
The first train from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:00.
The last train from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL departs at 17:55.
Trains from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL run approximately 1 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train between Indianapolis, IN and Chicago, IL. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Indianapolis, IN that goes to Chicago, IL is Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN, and it arrives at Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL is by coach, costing approximately £22.
Booking trains from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Passengers can enjoy views of farmland, small towns, and the transition into the bustling cityscape of Chicago.
A day trip from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 0m. However, there is 1 train per day for this route.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry for interactive exhibits on science and technology or discover the vibrant neighbourhoods of Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, renowned for their unique shops and eateries. Take a river cruise to admire the city's iconic architecture, or enjoy a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Spend a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest in the U.S. and free to enter. For sightseeing, visit Millennium Park with its modern art installations, the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, Willis Tower Skydeck for panoramic city views, or the Field Museum to see the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
To fully experience Chicago, IL, including its museums, architecture, and dining, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Indianapolis, IN and Chicago, IL

Most Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL trains use the Indianapolis Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Indianapolis, IN and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Indianapolis
Arrival train stations in Chicago

Which Indianapolis, IN station do trains to Chicago, IL leave from?

Trains from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL leave from Indianapolis Station. The station is 1 km from Indianapolis, IN city centre at 350 S Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA.
Indianapolis Station350 S Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

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