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Indianapolis, IN, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $8: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Indianapolis, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from Indianapolis to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$8 by trainBest price
266 kmDistance
3h 5m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Indianapolis to Chicago with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Palmland / various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$17-120
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$8-110
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 266 km
Duration: 3h 5m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
United Airlines / American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$84-267
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Traveling From Indianapolis to Chicago

This route connects Indianapolis's friendly charm with Chicago's vibrant urban energy, offering travelers a striking contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions that cater to various interests.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo and scenic parks.
• Trendy boutiques and dining options abound.
Wicker Park
• Known for its lively arts and music scene.
• Great mix of vintage shops and hip eateries.
The Loop
• Chicago’s bustling business district and cultural hub.
• Iconic architecture and famous theaters enhance the experience.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits to Chicago's top attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Millennium Park
Visit early morning or weekday afternoons to avoid large crowds.
Art Institute of Chicago
Plan a visit on Thursday evenings for fewer visitors and special discounts.
Navy Pier
Go during weekdays outside of summer for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a diverse climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable exploration. Weather conditions can significantly influence your travel plans, so packing accordingly ensures a more enjoyable experience.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of Chicago that stands apart from Indianapolis, try the iconic deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, where layers of cheesy goodness and rich tomato sauce create a delightful contrast. The bustling atmosphere and focus on local ingredients provide a distinctive experience that showcases Chicago's vibrant culinary scene.

Indianapolis - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between Indianapolis and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Website
http://palmlandlines.com

Bus from Indianapolis IN to Chicago IL

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$50-65
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$19-60
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Indianapolis to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$17-65
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$8-110
Plane
Website
https://www.aa.com/

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$80-390
Website
https://www.united.com/

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$100-410

Indianapolis to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Indianapolis and Chicago offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Indianapolis to Chicago, covering a distance of 292.9 km. Enjoy a leisurely drive that typically takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete. 💰 The prices for the journey by car range from $30 to $50, offering a cost-effective way to explore the Midwest and experience the vibrant city of Chicago.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Traveling from Indianapolis to Chicago by train is a convenient option with services running three times a week on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The journey typically takes around 5 hours aboard Amtrak trains. 🛤️ The direct train route from Indianapolis to Chicago stretches over 315.4 km, providing passengers with a comfortable and scenic ride through the heart of the Midwest. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between Indianapolis and Chicago can range from $8 to $110, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and schedule. Whether for business or leisure, taking the train is a stress-free and economical way to journey from Indianapolis to the Windy City.
Departure Point
Indianapolis station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
🛫 Planning a trip from Indianapolis to Chicago? Catch a quick direct flight from Indianapolis Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport, which takes just 1 hour and 11 minutes with airlines like American and United. 🌆 Enjoy a seamless journey as you reach the bustling city of Chicago in just 3 hours and 40 minutes by plane, offering you convenient and efficient travel options. ✈️ With flight prices ranging from $84 to $267, you can find a suitable option that fits your budget for a hassle-free trip between Indianapolis and Chicago.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 Traveling from Indianapolis to Chicago by bus offers a convenient and efficient option for reaching your destination. With services departing hourly and a journey time of approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, you can easily plan your trip to fit your schedule. 🌆 Enjoy the scenic route from Indianapolis to Chicago as you cover a distance of 302.6 km through the Midwest. Whether you choose a direct bus or opt for a route with additional stops, the journey promises comfort and affordability with ticket prices ranging from $17 to $120. 🕒 Sit back, relax, and anticipate the vibrant cityscape of Chicago as you approach the Chicago IL bus station. Whether you choose a direct route or a trip with stops along the way, the bus journey provides a hassle-free and cost-effective travel option for your adventure from Indianapolis to the Windy City.
Departure Point
Indianapolis IN station
Arrival Point
Chicago IL station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Ensure to check the specific bus operator before your trip; both Palmland Bus Lines (palmlandbus.com) and Greyhound (greyhound.com) provide services on this route, but schedules and travel times may vary.
• Arrive early at the Indianapolis Bus Station to secure your preferred seats and understand the boarding process since it can get busy, particularly on weekends.
• Upon arrival at Chicago's Greyhound station, familiarize yourself with the station’s layout using the available maps, and be aware that it connects with the CTA train system; the 'Blue Line' can take you directly into the heart of downtown Chicago.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Indianapolis to Chicago.

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The distance between Indianapolis and Chicago is approximately 267 km by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes 5 hours by train, 5 hours and 20 minutes by taking a bus to Fort Wayne and then flying, and 3 hours and 39 minutes by plane to reach Chicago from Indianapolis. Conversely, it takes 3 hours and 5 minutes by car and 3 hours and 20 minutes by bus to reach Indianapolis from Chicago.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Indianapolis to Chicago is by train. It takes 5 hours and costs between $8 and $110. However, if time is of the essence, driving would be the most time-efficient option, taking approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes.
The prices for traveling between Indianapolis and Chicago vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. For the train, prices range from $8 to $110. Meanwhile, bus tickets can be found for prices ranging from $17 to $120.
To get from Indianapolis to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 293 km, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Indianapolis to Chicago can vary, with prices ranging from $30 to $50, depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees.
The best way to travel from Indianapolis to Chicago without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, with fares ranging from $17 to $120. An alternative option is to take a train, which will cost between $8 and $110 and take around 5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly, which typically takes 3 hours and 39 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $80 to $250.
Yes, there is a direct link between Indianapolis and Chicago. You can take a direct train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station, which operates three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The journey takes approximately 5 hours. Alternatively, there is also a direct bus service that departs from Indianapolis IN and arrives in Chicago IL, with buses running hourly every day. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes.
The flight between Indianapolis and Chicago typically takes 1 hour and 9 minutes. Prices for flights between the two cities can vary from $84 to $247.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Chicago, with over 1116 hotels to choose from. These hotels offer varying price ranges starting at $58 per night, ensuring there is something to suit every budget.

Trips from Indianapolis