1map logoGo to main page

Indianapolis, IN, USA to East Lansing, MI, USA from $18: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Indianapolis, United States of America
to
East Lansing, United States of America

How to Get from Indianapolis to East Lansing: 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.

$18 by trainBest price
360 kmDistance
4h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Indianapolis to East Lansing 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
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  44m
Estimated price
$62-177
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
10h  26m
Estimated price
$18-213
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 360 km
Duration: 4h 15m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  22m
Estimated price
$37-127
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  11m
Estimated price
$58-159
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
11h  5m
Estimated price
$65-620
Company
n/a
Drive
Average Duration
4h  15m
Estimated price
$621-622
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
$623-624
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  48m
Estimated price
$625-626
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$627-628
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Indianapolis to East Lansing

Embarking on a journey from Indianapolis to East Lansing offers a striking contrast between the vibrant urban scene of Indiana's capital and the charming college town atmosphere of Michigan State University.

Best Neighbourhoods in East Lansing

East Lansing features diverse neighborhoods brimming with culture and activity.

Downtown East Lansing
• Bustling local shops and restaurants available.
• Home to vibrant nightlife and community events.
Chateau
• Scenic parks perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Historic homes showcasing unique architectural styles.
Woodland Estates
• Peaceful ambiance ideal for relaxation.
• Close proximity to Michigan State University.

Best Times To Visit East Lansing's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your East Lansing experience significantly.

Michigan State University
Visit early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays for fewer crowds.
Abrams Planetarium
Weekday afternoons offer a quieter experience for stargazing sessions.
East Lansing Farmer's Market
Arrive early Saturday mornings for the best produce and less hustle.

East Lansing Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

East Lansing experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather impacts outdoor activities and local events, so being prepared for seasonal changes enhances your travel experience.

Dining in East Lansing: A Flavorful Adventure

Be sure to try the farm-to-table offerings at The State Room, where seasonal ingredients showcase Michigan's rich agricultural landscape, creating a distinct contrast to the urban culinary scene of Indianapolis. The cozy ambiance, coupled with innovative dishes like the smoked Michigan trout, provides a refreshing dining experience that reflects the heart of East Lansing's local culture.

Indianapolis - East Lansing operators

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

Bus
Website
palmlandlines.com

Bus from Indianapolis IN to Chicago IL

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$2135-65
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
baronsbus.com

Bus from Indianapolis, IN to Toledo

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$183-65

Bus from Toledo to Ann Arbor Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$2136-1773
Contact phone
+1 517-333-0400
Website
michiganflyer.com

Bus from Ann Arbor- Blake Transit Ctr., MI to East Lansing, MI

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$1779-187

Bus from Detroit Metro Airport to East Lansing, MI

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$2137-1770
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$1779-180

Train from Chicago Union Station to East Lansing Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$1779-180

Train from Battle Creek to East Lansing Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$188-65
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$1779-180
Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Lansing (LAN)

Average Duration
4h 19m
Estimated price
$1770-1774
Website
aa.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Flint (FNT)

Average Duration
4h 12m
Estimated price
$1776-1777
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 810-629-7080
Website
heytaxi.us

Taxi from Flint to East Lansing

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$186-2139

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

Traveling between Indianapolis and East Lansing 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 East Lansing, covering a distance of 254 miles, with an estimated travel time of 4 hours and 15 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $45 to $70 for the journey by car from Indianapolis to East Lansing, ensuring a budget-friendly travel experience.
Average price
$45 - $70
🚂 Hop on a train in Indianapolis for a scenic 10-hour journey to East Lansing. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful countryside views along the way. 💸 Prices for the train ride between Indianapolis and East Lansing range from $18 to $213. Choose the fare that suits your budget and travel preferences for this convenient mode of transportation. 🏞️ Arrive in East Lansing after approximately 10 hours and 26 minutes of travel time by train. Explore the charming city known for its vibrant arts scene, lively college atmosphere, and welcoming Midwestern hospitality.
🛫 Flying from Indianapolis to East Lansing involves a connecting flight as there is no direct route. The fastest option with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes. 🌍 Airlines such as United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines operate flights between Indianapolis Airport and Lansing Airport. The total duration of the journey by plane from Indianapolis to East Lansing is around 6 hours and 39 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between East Lansing and Indianapolis typically range from $41 to $396, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the best option based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Lansing Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 37m and has one stopover
🚌 Planning a bus trip from Indianapolis to East Lansing? While there's no direct route, you can embark on a 9-hour journey with transfers through Toledo, Amtrak Station, and Ann Arbor- Blake Transit Ctr.. 🎫 The prices for a bus ticket between East Lansing and Indianapolis can range from $37 to $127.
Departure Point
Indianapolis, IN station
Arrival Point
East Lansing, MI station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Indianapolis to East Lansing.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Indianapolis and East Lansing is 224 miles, with a road distance of 254.4 miles. The typical travel times between the two cities vary depending on the mode of transportation. For example, it takes approximately 10 hours and 26 minutes to travel by train, 8 hours and 44 minutes by bus and train via Chicago, 6 hours and 39 minutes by plane, and 9 hours and 22 minutes by bus. Driving by car is the quickest option, taking only 4 hours and 15 minutes to travel from East Lansing to Indianapolis.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Indianapolis to East Lansing is to drive. It takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, with costs ranging from $45 to $70 for the trip. Driving offers both convenience and affordability compared to other modes of transportation.
When traveling from Indianapolis to East Lansing, the prices for a train ticket can range from $18 to $213. On the other hand, bus tickets for the same route typically cost between $37 and $127. The specific price within these ranges will depend on factors such as the time of booking, class of service, and availability of discounts. It's advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date fare information.
To travel from Indianapolis to East Lansing without using public transportation, you can drive the approximately 254-mile distance which usually takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of driving from Indianapolis to East Lansing typically ranges from $45 to $70, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. Driving provides flexibility and allows you to explore scenic routes along the way at your own pace.
The most efficient way to travel from Indianapolis to East Lansing without a car is by taking a bus and train via Chicago, which typically takes around 8 hours and 44 minutes and costs between $60 to $180. Another option is to take a bus via Toledo, which takes approximately 9 hours and 22 minutes with costs ranging from $35 to $130. Alternatively, traveling by train, costing between $18 to $220 and taking 10 hours and 26 minutes, or flying, with costs ranging from $40 to $400 and taking 6 hours and 39 minutes, are also viable options for this journey.
While there is no direct bus route between Indianapolis and East Lansing there are connecting services available. Passengers can take a bus from Indianapolis to Toledo, then transfer to an Amtrak train that goes to Ann Arbor- Blake Transit Ctr. before finally reaching East Lansing. This route, including transfers, typically takes around 9 hours and 22 minutes to complete. Both Barons Bus and Michigan Flyer offer these services for travelers making this journey.
The quickest flight from Indianapolis to East Lansing typically takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight between Indianapolis Airport and Lansing Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary between $41 to $396, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It's recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information for this route.
There is a wide range of accommodation options near East Lansing, with over 71 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $56 per night, offering affordable choices for budget-conscious travelers. Visitors can find a variety of lodging types, from budget motels to upscale hotels, ensuring there is something to suit every preference and budget. It is recommended to book your stay in advance to secure your preferred hotel and dates.

Trips from Indianapolis