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

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from
South Bend, United States of America
to
Indianapolis, United States of America

How to Get from South Bend 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.

$12 by trainBest price
228 kmDistance
2h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from South Bend 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
Miller Transportation
Bus
Average Duration
3h  10m
Estimated price
$30-55
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
7h  48m
Estimated price
$12-184
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 228 km
Duration: 2h 53m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  53m
Estimated price
$25-40
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  28m
Estimated price
$195-438
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Traveling From South Bend to Indianapolis

The journey from South Bend to Indianapolis offers a striking contrast between the charming, smaller-town atmosphere of South Bend and the vibrant, bustling energy of Indiana's capital city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Indianapolis

Indianapolis boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.

Broad Ripple
• Renowned for its vibrant arts scene.
• Offers a variety of local restaurants and shops.
Mass Ave
• Home to unique boutiques and galleries.
• Bustling nightlife with theaters and bars.
Fountain Square
• Known for its historic architecture and murals.
• Hosts numerous festivals and live music events.

Best Times To Visit Indianapolis's Attractions

To fully enjoy what Indianapolis has to offer, timing your visits can make all the difference.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Visit in early morning during race season for fewer crowds and better views.
White River State Park
Weekdays in late spring offer pleasant weather and fewer visitors.
Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Early afternoon on weekdays provides a quieter experience and shorter lines.

Indianapolis Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Indianapolis experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasons, making spring and fall the most pleasant times for visitors. Be prepared for varying temperatures and precipitation throughout the year, as weather can significantly influence your travel plans and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Indianapolis

In Indianapolis, try the famous pork tenderloin sandwich at Late Harvest Kitchen, where the commitment to fresh, local ingredients creates a vibrant dining experience. This contrasts with the more traditional fare you might find in South Bend, offering a lively atmosphere and innovative flavors that truly showcase the city's culinary scene.

South Bend - Indianapolis operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-544-2383
Website
http://hoosierride.com

Bus from South Street Station - South Bend to Indianapolis, IN

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$30-55
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
http://amtrak.com

Train from South Bend Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
1h 54m
Estimated price
$11-550

Train from Chicago Union Station to Indianapolis

Average Duration
4h 54m
Estimated price
$121-110
Plane Show flights
Contact phone
null
Website
null

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

Average Duration
4h 28m
Estimated price
$195-438
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
null
Website
null

Other from South Bend to Indianapolis

Average Duration
2h 53m
Estimated price
$25-40

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

Traveling between South Bend 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 South Bend to Indianapolis, spanning 142 miles of scenic Midwestern landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely drive that typically takes around 2 hours and 53 minutes to complete. 💰 Explore the flexibility of travel costs, with the price range for a car trip from South Bend to Indianapolis falling between $25 to $40. Plan your budget accordingly and drive stress-free through the heart of Indiana.
Average price
$25 - $40
🚆 If you're traveling from South Bend to Indianapolis by train, be prepared for a journey with a transfer at Chicago Union Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes. 🎫 Train services operated by Amtrak depart from South Bend Amtrak Station and arrive at Indianapolis station. The ticket prices for this route can vary from $12 to $184, depending on factors such as booking time and class of service.
Departure Point
South Bend Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Indianapolis station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check the onboard services of Amtrak's Cardinal train, which operates this route. They offer a café car with light snacks, beverages, and meal options for purchase. Be sure to bring cash or a card to grab a snack during your journey.
• The Amtrak Cardinal provides different seating options. You can choose from Economy Class, which features standard comfortable seating, and Business Class, which offers more spacious seating with a quieter environment. If you prefer extra amenities, consider upgrading to Business Class for a more relaxed experience.
• Amtrak operates the Cardinal train on this route. You can find more details and book tickets on their website: Amtrak Cardinal. After your arrival in Indianapolis, you can navigate the Indianapolis Union Station, which has restrooms available and does provide secure luggage storage. More info can be found on their site: Indianapolis Union Station. For transport options to the city center, the Red Line bus is the most efficient; it operates frequently and connects directly to downtown. Check their schedule at IndyGo.
🛫 Flying from South Bend to Indianapolis involves a one-stop flight that takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. Airlines like Allegiant Air, United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines operate this route. 🛄 Passengers can expect a journey time of around 4 hours and 28 minutes before landing in Indianapolis Airport. While there is no direct flight available, travelers have the option to choose from multiple airlines for their trip. 💸 Prices for flights between Indianapolis and South Bend can range from $195 to $438, offering passengers flexibility in selecting a suitable option based on their budget and schedule. It's a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two Indiana cities.
Departure Point
South Bend Airport
Arrival Point
Indianapolis Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 19m and has one stopover
🚌 Start your journey from South Street Station in South Bend where a direct bus operated by Miller Transportation will take you to Indianapolis in approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. 🛣️ The scenic route from South Bend to Indianapolis covers a distance of 285 miles with one transfer along the way. Board the bus towards Chicago for a 1 hour and 40-minute ride, followed by a second bus towards Nashville for an additional 4 hours and 20 minutes of travel time. 💸 Ticket prices for the South Bend to Indianapolis bus range from $30 to $55, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for your trip between these two vibrant cities in Indiana.
Departure Point
South Street Station - South Bend
Arrival Point
Indianapolis, IN station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to arrive at South Street Station in South Bend at least 30 minutes before your bus departure to ensure a smooth boarding process, as the buses operated by Miller Transportation depart punctually and may not wait for latecomers.
• For dining options before you board, consider visiting a nearby establishment like Fiddler's Hearth, which offers local cuisine and is just a short walk from South Street Station, allowing you to grab a quick bite before your journey.
• Upon arriving at Indianapolis, expect a busy station; utilize the signage to locate the exit and local transport options, including the Indianapolis public transit system (IndyGo) which can take you to various parts of the city quickly; visit indygo.net for schedules and maps.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from South Bend to Indianapolis.

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The distance between South Bend and Indianapolis is approximately 133 miles by road. It takes around 2 hours and 53 minutes to drive between the two cities. Additionally, it takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to travel by bus. If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, you can choose to fly, which takes approximately 4 hours and 22 minutes, or take a train which will take around 7 hours and 48 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from South Bend to Indianapolis is by car. It takes approximately 2 hours and 53 minutes to drive the 142 mile distance. The cost of driving is estimated to be between $25 to $40 for a round trip. Taking a plane or train may be faster in terms of travel time, but they are more expensive options compared to driving. Additionally, taking a bus also takes a similar amount of time as driving, but it may not be as cost-effective as driving for this particular route.
When traveling from South Bend to Indianapolis the prices for a train ticket can vary from $12 to $184. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Indianapolis and South Bend can range from $30 to $55. It is advisable to check the specific prices and availability for your chosen dates of travel in order to make an informed decision.
To get from South Bend to Indianapolis without using public transportation, you can drive the 142-mile distance, which takes approximately 2 hours and 53 minutes. The road trip offers flexibility and allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. The cost of gas for the trip can vary between $25 to $40, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current fuel prices.
If you are looking to travel from South Bend to Indianapolis without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes and the ticket prices range from $30 to $55. Another option is to take a train, which takes approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes and costs between $11 and $190. Alternatively, you could choose to fly, which takes about 4 hours and 22 minutes and has ticket prices ranging from $190 to $420.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between South Bend and Indianapolis. The bus service, operated by Miller Transportation, departs once daily and takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. There is no direct train service between the two cities, but it is possible to take a train from South Bend to Indianapolis with a transfer in Chicago. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes.
The flight duration between South Bend and Indianapolis with a stopover, is approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities typically ranges from $195 to $418. However, please note that there are no direct flights from South Bend Airport to Indianapolis Airport, so the duration and cost may vary depending on the specific airline, route, and availability of flights. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date information on flight times and prices.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Indianapolis. With over 659 hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable for your preferences and budget. Prices start at $53, offering a range of affordable options. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly motel, or something in between, there is a wide selection to choose from. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from South Bend

Trips to Indianapolis