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Saint Louis, MO, USA to Indianapolis, IN, USA from $20: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Saint Louis, United States
to
Indianapolis, United States

How to Get from Saint Louis to Indianapolis: 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.

$20 by trainBest price
391 kmDistance
4h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Saint Louis to Indianapolis 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
Greyhound US0421
Bus
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$26-70
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
11h  19m
Estimated price
$20-231
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 391 km
Duration: 4h 2m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  56m
Estimated price
$104-414
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  55m
Estimated price
$190-260
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Traveling From Saint Louis to Indianapolis

Traveling from Saint Louis to Indianapolis reveals a journey through diverse landscapes and cultural experiences, showcasing the vibrant music scene and iconic Gateway Arch in Saint Louis contrasted with the charming parks and thriving sports atmosphere of Indianapolis.

Best Neighbourhoods in Indianapolis

Indianapolis boasts vibrant neighborhoods each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Mass Ave
• Features eclectic shops and art galleries
• Bustling nightlife with diverse restaurants
Broad Ripple
• Known for its lively music scene
• Beautiful parks and waterways for outdoor activities
Downtown Indy
• Home to iconic landmarks and attractions
• Easy access to sporting events and festivals

Best Times To Visit Indianapolis's Attractions

Planning your visit to Indianapolis? Here are tips for enjoying popular spots without the hassle of crowds.

Indianapolis Zoo
Visit in the early morning during weekdays for fewer visitors and cooler temperatures.
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Midweek visits in spring and fall offer quieter explorations of exhibits.
Monument Circle
Go early on weekends to enjoy a peaceful experience before the crowds gather.

Indianapolis Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Indianapolis experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters that can greatly influence your travel plans. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when mild temperatures make it comfortable to explore outdoor attractions and minimize weather-related disruptions.

Dining in Indianapolis: A Culinary Contrast

Visit St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis for their famous shrimp cocktail, featuring a spicy homemade cocktail sauce that sets it apart from Saint Louis-style barbecue. This iconic restaurant not only showcases the rich flavors of the Midwest but also offers a historic, elegant atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the casual dining scene of Saint Louis.

Saint Louis - Indianapolis operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Indianapolis Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$26-70
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from St. Louis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$20-231

Train from Chicago Union Station to Indianapolis

Average Duration
4h 54m
Estimated price
$20-231
Plane
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
4h 1m
Estimated price
$265-266
Website
http://delta.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$268-266
Website
http://united.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$265-700
Website
http://southwest.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$268-702

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

Traveling between Saint Louis and Indianapolis 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 picturesque journey from Saint Louis to Indianapolis, covering a driving distance of 243 miles through the heart of the Midwest. Enjoy the smooth roads and changing landscapes as you make your way eastward. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $40 to $65 for the road trip from Saint Louis to Indianapolis by car. Plan your stops wisely to experience local flavors and attractions along the route without breaking the bank. 🛣️ Set out on the open road for approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes, immersing yourself in the rhythm of the long stretch ahead. Take in the scenic beauty and anticipate the rich history that awaits in Indianapolis, making this drive a memorable part of your travel adventures.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚆 Although there is no direct train from Saint Louis to Indianapolis, travelers can take a train from St. Louis to Indianapolis via Chicago Union Station, with the journey taking approximately 11 hours and 19 minutes with transfers. 🎫 The prices for the train between Saint Louis and Indianapolis typically range from $20 to $231 for this 11-hour journey, offering a scenic route through the heartland of the United States. 🚌 For alternative travel options, one can also consider taking a bus towards New York, with routes varying in duration from 4 hours 5 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes, depending on the specific route and distance of around 244 to 248 miles.
Departure Point
St. Louis station
Arrival Point
Indianapolis station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Saint Louis to Indianapolis, Amtrak is the primary operator offering onboard catering services. You can enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages available for purchase, such as coffee, soft drinks, and light meals. Selections may vary, but you generally can find options like sandwiches, salads, and even vegetarian choices.
• Amtrak provides several seating options on this route. You can choose from Economy Class, which offers standard seating with limited legroom, or First Class (also known as Business Class), which offers larger, more comfortable seats and additional amenities such as extra legroom and priority boarding. Make sure to check availability and book early for the best options.
• When you arrive in Indianapolis at the Amtrak station, be prepared for a busy environment. The station does not provide storage for luggage, so be sure to travel light. The restrooms are available for use, but there are no shower facilities. If you need to freshen up, consider stopping at a nearby café. Also, to get to downtown Indianapolis swiftly, take the IndyGo bus number 8, which directly connects from the station to various stops across the city center.
🛫 Traveling from Saint Louis to Indianapolis by plane involves a flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes with one stopover. While there are no direct flights available, major airlines such as Southwest, United, American, and Delta operate this route. ✈️ The journey between the two cities typically takes around 5 hours and 56 minutes by air, providing a convenient option for travelers looking to reach Indianapolis from Saint Louis efficiently. Despite the travel time, the flight offers a swift and comfortable means of transportation between the two destinations. 💸 Flight prices between Saint Louis and Indianapolis range from $104 to $414, depending on the airline, season, and booking preferences. Travelers can select from a variety of flight options to find the most suitable and cost-effective choice for their trip between these two Midwestern cities.
Departure Point
St. Louis Airport
Arrival Point
Indianapolis Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 22m and has one stopover
🚌 Depart from St Louis Bus Station station and arrive at Indianapolis Bus Station station for a 4-hour and 5-minute journey. Greyhound USA operates the St. Louis to Indianapolis bus services, departing three times a day. Louis to Indianapolis bus tickets online with FlixBus for prices ranging from $26 to $70. The distance of the route is 244 miles, offering a comfortable bus ride through scenic landscapes. 🛣️ Enjoy a smooth ride as you travel from Saint Louis to Indianapolis in just over 4 hours. Sit back, relax, and take in the sights along the way with Greyhound USA as your reliable transportation provider.
Departure Point
St Louis Bus Station
Arrival Point
Indianapolis Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the St. Louis Bus Station at least 30 minutes early to locate your bus and understand the layout, as it can be busy and a bit confusing; the station is located at 430 S 15th St, St. Louis, MO 63103.
• Pack snacks and a refillable water bottle, as there are limited dining options on the bus; if you're looking for food before departure, check out St. Louis' Union Station nearby, which has various eateries.
• Upon arriving at Indianapolis Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the public transit options nearby; the station is located at 350 S Illinois St, which is close to the IndyGo bus system, or consider using rideshare services for quick access to downtown Indianapolis.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Saint Louis to Indianapolis.

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The distance between Saint Louis and Indianapolis is approximately 373 km. By train, it takes about 11 hours and 19 minutes to travel from Saint Louis to Indianapolis. By plane, the travel time is significantly shorter, averaging around 6 hours and 1 minute. If traveling by car, it takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes to reach Saint Louis from Indianapolis, while by bus, the journey takes around 4 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Saint Louis to Indianapolis is by bus, with fares ranging from $26 to $70. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes. The cost for this mode of transportation ranges from $40 to $65.
The prices for traveling by train between Saint Louis and Indianapolis can range from $20 to $231, depending on factors such as class and availability. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Indianapolis and Saint Louis can vary from $26 to $70.
To travel from Saint Louis to Indianapolis without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 391 km, and it takes about 4 hours and 2 minutes to drive from Saint Louis to Indianapolis. The cost of the trip by car can vary, but typically ranges from $40 to $65.
One way to travel from Saint Louis to Indianapolis without a car is by taking a bus. The journey typically takes around 4 hours and 5 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $26 to $70. Another option is to take a train, which takes approximately 11 hours and 19 minutes and costs between $19 and $240. Alternatively, you can fly, with a flight duration of about 6 hours and 1 minute, and ticket prices ranging from $95 to $500.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Saint Louis and Indianapolis. Greyhound USA operates multiple daily bus services from St. Louis Bus Station to Indianapolis Bus Station, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. However, there is no direct train between the two cities. Amtrak operates train services that require a transfer in Chicago Union Station, resulting in a journey time of around 11 hours and 19 minutes.
The flight between Saint Louis and Indianapolis typically takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available. The cost of the flight can range from $100 to $494, depending on the airline and time of booking.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Indianapolis, with over 659 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $53 per night, so there is something to suit every budget.

Trips from Saint Louis

Trips to Indianapolis