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Indianapolis, IN, USA to Washington, DC, USA from $30: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Indianapolis, United States of America
to
Washington, United States of America

How to Get from Indianapolis to Washington: 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.

$30 by trainBest price
946 kmDistance
3h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Indianapolis to Washington 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$123-275
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
18h  29m
Estimated price
$30-230
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 946 km
Duration: 3h 38m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
14h  30m
Estimated price
$70-1230
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  13m
Estimated price
$143-704
Company
various
Plane
Subway
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$154-348
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  50m
Estimated price
$1231-1232
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Traveling From Indianapolis to Washington

Traveling from Indianapolis to Washington offers a fascinating contrast between the Midwest’s vibrant cultural scene and the East Coast’s political pulse.

Best Neighbourhoods in Washington

Washington offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Georgetown
• Historic architecture and charming cobblestone streets.
• Trendy shops and waterfront dining options.
Dupont Circle
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and museums.
• Lively nightlife with popular bars and restaurants.
Capitol Hill
• Home to the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court.
• Lovely parks and historic brownstone houses.

Best Times To Visit Washington's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Washington's iconic sites.

The National Mall
Visit early mornings on weekdays for fewer crowds and beautiful sunrise views.
Smithsonian Museums
Plan visits during weekdays or late afternoons for a quieter experience.
Lincoln Memorial
Go at sunset for stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Washington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Washington experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant, enhancing your travel experience as you explore the city's outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation

Try the iconic Chesapeake Bay crab cakes at Old Ebbitt Grill, where the fresh seafood highlights Washington's coastal influences. This experience contrasts with Indianapolis' heartier midwestern fare, offering a lighter, flavor-packed dish in a bustling, historic setting that captures the city's essence.

Indianapolis - Washington operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$1235-1236

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration
4h 2m
Estimated price
$1235-1236

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$1235-1236

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration
4h 11m
Estimated price
$1235-1236
Website
united.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration
4h 18m
Estimated price
$1239-2750

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Washington Dulles (IAD)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$1239-2751

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Washington Dulles (IAD)

Average Duration
4h 3m
Estimated price
$1239-2751
Website
delta.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration
4h 3m
Estimated price
$1233-1236

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Washington Dulles (IAD)

Average Duration
3h 29m
Estimated price
$1233-1236
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Indianapolis to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
18h 29m
Estimated price
$30-230

Train from BWI Thurgood Marshall to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$2757-1239

Train from BWI Thurgood Marshall to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
28m
Estimated price
$2758-27545

Train from BWI Thurgood Marshall to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$2753-300
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to Pittsburgh Intermodal Station

Average Duration
7h 50m
Estimated price
$27550-3005

Bus from Pittsburgh Intermodal Station to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$30-304

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
14h 30m
Estimated price
$70-1230
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Indianapolis to Washington

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
$1231-1232

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

Traveling between Indianapolis and Washington 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 an exciting road trip from the heart of Indianapolis to the bustling city of Washington. Covering a distance of 588 miles, this journey offers a perfect blend of scenic routes and urban landscapes. 💰 Experience the freedom of the open road with prices ranging from $100 to $160 for the trip from Indianapolis to Washington by car. Whether you choose to indulge in a budget-friendly drive or opt for a more luxurious ride, the choice is yours to make. 🌆 Arrive in Washington after approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes of driving, ready to explore iconic landmarks like the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and vibrant neighborhoods. Your journey promises a memorable adventure filled with discovery and excitement.
Average price
$100 - $160
🚆 Experience the convenience of a direct train journey from Indianapolis to Washington! Departing three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, this Amtrak service offers a scenic ride lasting approximately 18 hours and 29 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the train from Indianapolis to Washington range from $30 to $230, providing travelers with a range of options to suit their budget and travel preferences. Whether it's for business or leisure, this train trip offers a unique way to explore the charming cities of Indianapolis and Washington.
Departure Point
Indianapolis station
Arrival Point
Washington Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Indianapolis to Washington may vary based on the operator, such as Amtrak. You can expect a café car offering a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. For a more substantial meal, First-Class passengers often have complimentary meals served at their seats, while Business Class may have access to enhanced snack options in addition to what's available in the café car.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak, which offers different seating options: First Class (Roomette and Bedroom), Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides more luxurious amenities, Business Class offers spacious seating and extra legroom, while Economy Class is more affordable with basic seating. Be sure to reserve your seats ahead of time, especially during peak travel times.
• Upon arriving at Washington Union Station, you can find luggage storage services at the Amtrak station for a small fee if you wish to explore the city without your bags. The station has restrooms available, but there are no showers. To navigate the city center, take the Red Line Metro from the station; it’s the quickest way to reach downtown. You can take the Metro towards Glenmont and get off at Gallery Place-Chinatown for a central location, or use the H Street Line streetcar for a direct route up to the eastern parts of downtown.
🛫 Flying from Indianapolis to Washington is a convenient and quick travel option, with direct flights taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes. 💸 Depending on the season and demand, prices for flights between Washington and Indianapolis can range from $123 to $275, making it a relatively affordable trip for those looking to explore the nation's capital.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Reagan Washington Airport
🚌 Starting from Indianapolis Bus Station, travelers can embark on an approximately 14.5-hour bus journey to Washington with a transfer in Pittsburgh Intermodal Station. 🚌 Travelers can expect ticket prices for the Indianapolis to Washington route to range from $70 to $171, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore the nation's capital by bus.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Bus Station
Arrival Point
Washington Union Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan ahead for your transfer at Pittsburgh Intermodal Station; familiarize yourself with the amenities and layout to ensure a smooth connection, as you'll have limited time between buses.
• Utilize the Greyhound website (greyhound.com) to check for possible alternate operators like Megabus or FlixBus, which may have different schedules or fares for your journey between Indianapolis and Washington.
• Upon arriving at Washington Union Station, make sure to locate the information desk for guidance on local transportation options, and consider downloading the DC Metro app (wmata.com) to navigate the city's transit system effectively.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Indianapolis to Washington.

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The distance between Indianapolis and Washington is 494 miles by air and 587.9 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes to reach Washington from Indianapolis by plane, 4 hours and 19 minutes by flying to Washington Dulles and then taking the subway, and 18 hours and 29 minutes by train. On the other hand, it takes approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes to drive from Washington to Indianapolis, and 12 hours and 48 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Indianapolis to Washington is by train, which takes 18 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $30 and $230. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly, which takes 3 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $110 and $270. Considering both cost and time, the train option provides a good balance between affordability and convenience for this journey.
The prices for a train ticket from Indianapolis to Washington can range from $30 to $230. Meanwhile, the prices for a bus ticket from Washington to Indianapolis can vary from $28 to $141.
To travel from Indianapolis to Washington without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is about 588 miles, and it takes approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes to drive. The cost of driving will vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but it can range from $100 to $160.
To travel from Indianapolis to Washington without a car, the best option is to take a bus, which typically takes around 12 hours and 48 minutes and costs between $28 and $150. Another option is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $110 and $270. If you prefer a longer journey, you can also take a train, which takes around 18 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $30 and $230.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Indianapolis and Washington. The Amtrak train service operates three times a week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, with a journey time of approximately 18 hours and 29 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service available between the two cities. Passengers would have to take a bus from Indianapolis to Columbus, OH, then transfer to another bus to Rockville Pike & Marinelli Rd, and finally take the subway to reach Washington with a total journey time of approximately 12 hours and 48 minutes.
The flight between Indianapolis and Washington typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary, but generally range from $113 to $265. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may depend on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date information on flight durations and costs.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Washington with over 1297 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $63 per night. Visitors can find a wide range of accommodations to suit their preferences and budgets, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from Indianapolis

Trips to Washington