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Indianapolis, IN, USA to Elkhart, IN, USA from $12: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Indianapolis to Elkhart: 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.

$12 by trainBest price
250 kmDistance
3h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Indianapolis to Elkhart 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
Miller Transportation
Bus
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$35-65
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
7h  49m
Estimated price
$12-181
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 250 km
Duration: 3h 11m

See more options

Company
Self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
3h  11m
Estimated price
$28-45
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$237-492
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Traveling From Indianapolis to Elkhart

The journey from Indianapolis to Elkhart takes you from the bustling city life to a charming town known for its vibrant arts scene and scenic landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Elkhart

Elkhart features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and appeal.

Historic River District
• Offers beautiful riverfront parks
• Home to local artisan shops
College Green
• Vibrant community with young energy
• Excellent dining options nearby
Sunnyside
• Family-friendly environment
• Close to recreational activities and nature trails

Best Times To Visit Elkhart's Attractions

Timing your visit can transform your experience in Elkhart.

The Midwest Museum of American Art
Visit during weekdays for a quieter, more personal exploration.
Linton's Enchanted Gardens
Early morning hours on weekends offer peaceful strolls and fewer crowds.
Biking Trails at Rice Park
Fall is ideal for vibrant foliage and less traffic on the trails.

Elkhart Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Elkhart experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making late spring and early fall the most pleasant times to explore. Keep the weather in mind when planning your activities, as rain can impact outdoor adventures and winter conditions can lead to beautiful snowy scenery.

Dining Recommendation in Elkhart

Head to The Buzz Café and savor their famous homemade blueberry pancakes, which showcase local Indiana blueberries and offer a lighter, farm-fresh alternative to the heartier dishes often found in Indianapolis. The cozy, laid-back atmosphere of this café, combined with its commitment to using local ingredients, creates a dining experience that immerses you in the charm of Elkhart.

Indianapolis - Elkhart operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-544-2383
Website
hoosierride.com

Bus from Indianapolis, IN to Elkhart, IN

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$35-65
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$359-650

Train from Chicago Union Station to Elkhart Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 49m
Estimated price
$658-3590
Plane

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to South Bend (SBN)

Average Duration
4h 47m
Estimated price
$352-355

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

Traveling between Indianapolis and Elkhart 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.

🚗 Driving from Indianapolis to Elkhart is a scenic journey spanning 156 miles, promising a mix of urban and rural landscapes along the way. 💰 The cost of this road trip typically ranges between $28 to $45, offering an affordable option for those seeking to explore Indiana's heartland by car. ⏳ With an average travel time of 3 hours and 11 minutes, the drive from Indianapolis to Elkhart is a manageable adventure for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Average price
$28 - $45
🚆 Starting from Indianapolis travelers can take a train journey to Elkhart with a transfer at Chicago Union Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 49 minutes operated by Amtrak. 🎫 Prices for the train between Indianapolis and Elkhart can range from $12 to $181. There are no direct trains to Elkhart, so passengers will need to make a transfer at Chicago Union Station during the trip. 🚉 Two possible routes are available, with Route 2 being the quicker option taking 8 hours and 3 minutes to cover the 193-mile distance. Passengers can also opt for Route 1, which takes 15 hours and 29 minutes and covers 297 miles with a transfer in Chicago.
Departure Point
Indianapolis station
Arrival Point
Elkhart Amtrak Station
🛫 Traveling from Indianapolis to Elkhart by plane involves a journey with a stopover, as there is no direct flight available from Indianapolis Airport to South Bend Airport. The quickest flight option takes approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes. 🌍 Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines operate flights from Indianapolis Airport to South Bend Airport, providing travelers with options for their journey to Elkhart. The total travel time from Indianapolis to Elkhart by plane is around 5 hours and 27 minutes. 💸 Depending on the airline and time of booking, prices for flights between Elkhart and Indianapolis can range from $237 to $492, offering flexibility in choosing a fare that suits your budget for this domestic trip.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Airport
Arrival Point
South Bend Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 18m and has one stopover
⏰ The direct bus journey from Indianapolis to Elkhart takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. Operated by Miller Transportation, this daily service offers a convenient travel option. 💰 Prices for bus tickets between Elkhart and Indianapolis range from $35 to $65, making bus travel an affordable and comfortable choice for those looking to explore the route between these two Indiana cities.
Departure Point
Indianapolis, IN station
Arrival Point
Elkhart, IN station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Indianapolis to Elkhart.

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The distance between Indianapolis and Elkhart is approximately 133 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 155.5 miles. The travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about 7 hours and 49 minutes to reach Elkhart from Indianapolis. By plane, the travel time is approximately 5 hours and 21 minutes. By car, it takes about 3 hours and 11 minutes to drive from Indianapolis to Elkhart, while the bus journey typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Indianapolis to Elkhart is to drive. It costs around $28-$45 and takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes. Driving allows for flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times and provides the convenience of traveling directly from one location to another without any transfers or layovers.
When traveling from Indianapolis to Elkhart the prices of a train ticket can range from $12 to $181 depending on the class and time of booking. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket between Elkhart and Indianapolis range from $35 to $65. It is recommended to check for any discounts or promotions available and book in advance to secure the best prices for both train and bus travel options.
To travel from Indianapolis to Elkhart without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The driving distance is approximately 156 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes to reach Elkhart by car. The cost of the trip will vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency, but it generally ranges from $28 to $45.
The best way to travel from Indianapolis to Elkhart without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes and the ticket prices range from $35 to $65. Another option is to take a train, which takes around 7 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $12 and $190. Alternatively, you can choose to fly, which takes approximately 5 hours and 21 minutes and costs between $230 and $480.
Yes, there is a direct link between Indianapolis and Elkhart. There is a direct bus service operated by Miller Transportation that departs once daily from Indianapolis and arrives in Elkhart, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. However, there is no direct train service between the two cities. Passengers would need to take a train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station, then transfer to another train that goes to Elkhart Amtrak Station, with a total journey time of approximately 7 hours and 49 minutes.
The flight between Indianapolis and Elkhart typically takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between Indianapolis Airport and South Bend Airport, which is the closest airport to Elkhart. As for the cost, the prices for a flight between Elkhart and Indianapolis range from $237 to $472, depending on the airline and time of booking.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Elkhart. With over 135 hotels to choose from, you'll have no trouble finding one that suits your needs and preferences. The prices for these hotels start at $45, making it possible to find an affordable option. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices available to ensure a comfortable stay near Elkhart.

Trips from Indianapolis