background-img-buses-trains
chiku-desktop

Chicago to Indianapolis train

chiku-mobile
Available on iOS & Android
Lowest Prices

We find the cheapest bus & train tickets, so you can wander for less.

Best Travel Options

We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most bus & train options.

Quick & Easy Booking

Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.

Fast Customer Support

We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.

Chicago - Indianapolis Train Schedule

Find cheap rental carsFind great deals on cheap cars in the area.
RentalCars logotypeRentalCars logotype
from$30.00
No preview is currently available. Please try another date or search the full schedule.

Trip Summary

There is usually just one train option from Chicago to Indianapolis per day. The average train journey from Chicago to Indianapolis takes 7 hours and 9 minutes, but some Amtrak Cardinal train trips are as short as 4 hours and 54 minutes.

Distance165 mi (265 km)
Fastest train4h 54m
Lowest price$24.00
Trains per day1
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Indianapolis

(Based on 6 ratings and reviews)

4.8

5.0

Elizabeth

January 22, 2022- Visiting friends

Amtrak Cardinal

The seat was spacious and comfortable. The trip was on time and there were no problems.

5.0

Antwan

March 30, 2021- Solo travel

Amtrak Cardinal

It was fast

5.0

Anjana

July 2, 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.

5.0

Nakia

March 7, 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.

4.0

Robert

December 28, 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 very nice. Tips: Enjoy!

Chicago to Indianapolis Route Map

Chicago Indianapolis

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

In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Chicago to Indianapolis was $63.55. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Indianapolis if you book your train tickets at least 3 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $23.12.

Average prices by travel date

$120$80$40MarApr

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Indianapolis will cost between $47 and $119. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Monthly avg. prices

$150$120$90$60$30AMJJASONDJFM
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Indianapolis often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $65. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Indianapolis during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $144 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

$75$60$45$30$153020100

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Indianapolis on Wanderu at least 3 days ahead of time, you can save about $23.12 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Indianapolis?

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

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak18h 15m$80.76
Amtrak Cardinal14h 54m$41.47
  • Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Indianapolis every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $66.

  • The Amtrak Cardinal is a long distance passenger rail service from New York to Chicago, connecting a total of 31 cities. As one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the Cardinal is a popular train line connecting the Northeast to the Southeast, and offers top-notch comfort thanks to its seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and snacks available for purchase in the Cardinal Café. There are usually 1 Cardinal trips from Chicago to Indianapolis per day, with an average trip length of 4 hours and 54 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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 9 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.

Trains from Chicago to Indianapolis are the most crowded on Wednesday. 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 Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 9:00am and arrives in Indianapolis around 4 hours later.

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.

City Information

Chicago

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Indianapolis

Indianapolis, or often referred to as just Indy, is the capital and largest city in the state of Indiana. While the city attracts thousands of visitors from the area every month, it is during Memorial Day weekend that Indianapolis becomes the place to be for over 300,000 race car fans from all over the globe. The reason for that is the Indianapolis 500, an annual automobile race and the world’s largest single day sporting event, taking place at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

If you’re not in Indianapolis for Memorial Day weekend, you can learn about the race and see a rare collection of 500 Indy race vehicles and memorabilia at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. And while you’re on a history streak, stop by at one of the many war memorials found throughout the city, like the Soldiers and Sailors monument, the World War II memorial, and the Indiana War Memorial where you must check out the Shrine Room for a stunning one-of-a-kind experience.

Over the past few years, Indianapolis has also been cultivating a vibrant restaurant scene, offering classic American dishes made with ingredients from local farmers, and a growing selection of international cuisine. If you’re a beer fan, you will be happy to know that Indianapolis has some of the highest quality breweries in the U.S.

Located in the heart of America’s Midwest, Indianapolis offers easy connections by bus and train to other Midwestern hubs like Chicago, Louisville, and Cincinnati, while the conveniently located airport connects Indy with the rest of the world.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Chicago, IL - Union Station - CHIUST-0

Image credit: Jeramey Jannene

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.

All train stations in Chicago:

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

  • 10251 St Edwards Dr

  • Pacific Central Station

Where is the train station in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis, IN - Indianapolis Union Station (350 S Illinois St) - INDAMT-0

Image credit: Panoramio upload bot

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: 350 S Illinois St

Union Station at 350 S Illinois St in Indianapolis is a major train and bus station which serves the Amtrak Cardinal, and bus carriers including Greyhound, Jefferson Lines, Miller Transportation, and Burlington Trailways. The modern station is located directly south of the historic 1888 Union Station, which now houses a hotel, several restaurants, and a wedding venue. Union Station is in the Wholesale District of downtown Indianapolis, within walking distance to eateries and hotels. There is even an underground, climate-controlled walkway from the station to the nearby Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium, home to the Indianapolis Colts.

All train stations in Indianapolis:

  • 350 S Illinois St

Get around town with Moovit

Find the best way to get to and from any station in Indianapolis by public transit, courtesy of Moovit. Search now

Need a return trip from Indianapolis to Chicago?

Search Train Tickets

Wanderu is the simplest way to book bus and train travel.

With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu’s simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.

Book buses and trains on the go with the Wanderu app.

Download our app and snag the best travel deals across North America & Europe.Learn more

iPhone
Android
Available on iOS & Android