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Compare train tickets from Chicago to Indianapolis

Chicago-Indianapolis Train Timetable

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Trip Summary

How much are train tickets from Chicago to Indianapolis?

Lowest Price£16.58
Fastest Train4h 54m
Trains Per Day1
Train Lines2

Chicago to Indianapolis Route Map

Chicago Indianapolis

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel by train from Chicago to Indianapolis during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.

In addition, federal law requires all train passengers to wear a face covering for the entire duration of the trip. Please make sure you are wearing a face mask or you may not be allowed to board the train.

Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.

Can you take a train all the way from Chicago to Indianapolis?

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Indianapolis. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Indianapolis?

In the last month, £32.96 was the average price of a train ticket from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN. This is a good price that is inexpensive compared to most train fares. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 18 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around £6.16 more than that for a same-day booking.

How long is the train journey from Chicago to Indianapolis?

The distance between Chicago and Indianapolis is approximately 165 miles, or 265 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 35 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 54 minutes.

Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

When are trains the most crowded?

Trains from Chicago to Indianapolis are the most crowded on Friday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

When are the first and last trains of the day?

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 09:00 and arrives in Indianapolis around 4 hours later.

Is there a direct train from Chicago to Indianapolis?

Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Indianapolis with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Indianapolis to Chicago. If you're not not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Indianapolis for £15.86.

Which train should you take from Chicago to Indianapolis?

2 train services operate from Chicago, Illinois to Indianapolis, Indiana. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak18h 45m£43.00
Amtrak Cardinal14h 54m£17.18

Amtrak train tickets from Chicago to Indianapolis start from £42, and on average cost £43. Daily there are 1 Amtrak schedules to Indianapolis. Amtrak in Chicago leaves from Union Station - 225 S Canal St, And in Indianapolis trains arrive at 350 S Illinois St, From Chicago to Indianapolis train travel on Amtrak takes 8 hours and 45 minutes. If you are looking to get to Indianapolis faster, Amtrak offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 4 hours and 54 minutes. If you are looking to travel to Indianapolis on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak scheduled trip per day, which will cost £44 for a one-way weekend reservation from Chicago.

Amtrak Cardinal train tickets from Chicago to Indianapolis start from £17, and on average cost £17. Daily there are 1 Amtrak Cardinal schedules to Indianapolis. Amtrak Cardinal in Chicago leaves from Union Station - 225 S Canal St, And in Indianapolis trains arrive at 350 S Illinois St, From Chicago to Indianapolis train travel on Amtrak Cardinal takes 4 hours and 54 minutes. If you are looking to travel to Indianapolis on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Cardinal scheduled trip per day, which will cost £17 for a one-way weekend reservation from Chicago.

Where is the train station in Chicago?

There is one train station in Chicago:

  • Union Station - 225 S Canal St

Where is the train station in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis has one train station:

  • 350 S Illinois St

Price trends for trains from Chicago to Indianapolis

Average prices by travel date

£43£29£14MarMar

Monthly average prices

£36£29£22£14£7AMJJASONDJFM

Prices as travel date approaches

£36£29£22£14£73020100

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Overall score for trains from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN

(Based on 4 ratings and reviews)

4.8

5.0

Anjana

2 July 2020 - Solo travel

Amtrak Cardinal

Pros: It was clean and comfortable. Cons: It was great. I am not sure why it takes amtrack 5 hours to get to Indy from Chicago when it’s 3 hours drive. I think it takes longer is the only issue. Pros: It was clean and comfortable. Cons: It was great. I am not sure why it takes amtrack 5 hours to get to Indy from Chicago when it’s 3 hours drive. I think it takes longer is the only issue.

5.0

Nakia

7 March 2020 - Vacation

Amtrak Cardinal

Pros: I enjoyed the relaxation all around. Cons: Nothing. Tips: I would advise them to arrive 30 mins before time to depart. Pros: I enjoyed the relaxation all around. Cons: Nothing. Tips: I would advise them to arrive 30 mins before time to depart.

4.0

Robert

28 December 2019 - Couples trip

Amtrak Cardinal

Pros: No highway driving! Cons: The Union Station lady in Chicago was rude and nasty. She yelled at us to move through the door to another room and sit down. This was 10 minutes before the train was scheduled to depart. The lady who took our tickets before that was ... Pros: No highway driving! Cons: The Union Station lady in Chicago was rude and nasty. She yelled at us to move through the door to another room and sit down. This was 10 minutes before the train was scheduled to depart. The lady who took our tickets before that was very nice. Tips: Enjoy!More

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