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Detroit, MI, USA to Michigan City, IN, USA from $28: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Detroit, United States of America
to
Michigan City, United States of America

How to Get from Detroit to Michigan City: 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.

$28 - PlaneBest price
366 kmDistance
3h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit to Michigan City 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  17m
Estimated price
$44-157
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  3m
Estimated price
$28-298
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 366 km
Duration: 3h 40m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Train
Average Duration
10h  25m
Estimated price
$34-103
Company
Columbus-Chicago
Bus
Average Duration
6h  43m
Estimated price
$35-108
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$40-440
Company
Various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$441-442
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  42m
Estimated price
$443-444
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$445-404

Traveling From Detroit to Michigan City

This journey from Detroit to Michigan City offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling urban energy of Detroit and the serene lakeside charm of Michigan City.

Best Neighborhoods in Michigan City

Michigan City features a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Washington Park
• Home to beautiful beaches and scenic trails.
• Offers vibrant parks and family-friendly activities.
Downtown Michigan City
• Features unique shops and art galleries.
• Hosts a variety of local dining options.
Old Michigan City
• Showcases historic architecture and quaint streets.
• Close to cultural attractions like the local lighthouse.

Best Times To Visit Michigan City's Attractions

Planning your visit to Michigan City’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Indiana Dunes National Park
Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets
Weekdays are ideal for a more relaxed shopping experience.
Old Lighthouse Museum
Late spring or early fall offers pleasant weather and smaller crowds.

Michigan City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Michigan City experiences a mix of warm summers and cold winters, with moderate rainfall throughout the year. For the best travel experience, consider visiting during late spring or early fall, when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Michigan City

For a taste of Michigan City, try the fresh lake perch at Shady Creek Winery, where the cozy atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients create a delightful dining experience. This contrasts with Detroit's vibrant food scene by offering a more laid-back setting that highlights the flavors of the Great Lakes.

Detroit - Michigan City operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Dearborn to New Buffalo Amtrak

Average Duration
3h 31m
Estimated price
$449-448
Contact phone
+1 219-926-5744
Website
mysouthshoreline.com

Train from Millennium Station to 11th St.

Average Duration
1h 56m
Estimated price
$2985-2986

Train from Van Buren St. to 11th St.

Average Duration
1h 53m
Estimated price
$2985-2986
Bus
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
https://baronsbus.com/

Bus from Detroit, MI to Fort Wayne, IN

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$2988-283

Bus from Fort Wayne, IN to Michigan City, IN

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$2986-285
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 5m
Estimated price
$2870-4495
Fly
Website
delta.com

Fly from Detroit (DTW) to South Bend (SBN)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$1570-1571

Fly from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$1577-1578

Fly from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$1574-280

Fly from Detroit (DTW) to Kalamazoo (AZO)

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$1575-280
Website
united.com

Fly from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$15750-1576
Website
southwest.com

Fly from Detroit (DTW) to Chicago Midway

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$1577-1578
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 574-233-9599

Taxi from South Bend to Michigan City

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$448-15750
Contact phone
+1-574-383-6767
Website
southbendtaxi.com

Taxi from South Bend to Michigan City

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$448-15750
Contact phone
+1 574-233-9333

Taxi from South Bend to Michigan City

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$448-15750

Detroit to Michigan City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Detroit and Michigan City 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 Detroit to Michigan City covering a distance of 227 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the heart of the Midwest, taking in the sights and sounds along the way. ⛽️ Fuel up for the journey as you traverse from Detroit to Michigan City, with driving time estimated at around 3 hours and 43 minutes. Experience the freedom of the open road while making memories with friends or family in the comfort of your own vehicle. 💰 Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the cost-effective options available for this trip, with car travel prices ranging from $40 to $60. Explore the charm of Michigan City while saving on transportation expenses for an enjoyable and wallet-friendly adventure.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚆 Traveling from Detroit to Michigan City by train takes approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes. The ticket prices can range from $44 to $157. 🛤️ Route options include a journey with a total distance of 338 miles, involving a transfer in Chicago. The first step is taking the Wolverine train from Detroit to Chicago Union Station, followed by a connection on the South Shore Line to Carroll Ave. in Michigan City. 🗺️ Another route covering a similar distance of 339 miles also requires a transfer in Chicago. Passengers will board the Wolverine train to Chicago Union Station, then switch to the South Shore Line at either Van Buren Street or Millennium Station for the final leg to Michigan City's Carroll Ave. station.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Detroit to Michigan City will depend on the operator but typically include light snacks and beverages. Amtrak offers café cars with a variety of food options including sandwiches, salads, and refreshments. Be sure to check the onboard menu upon boarding to take advantage of what’s available.
• The primary operators for this route are Amtrak and possibly some regional lines. Amtrak provides multiple seating options including Business Class, which offers more spacious seating and quieter surroundings, and Economy Class, which is a budget-friendly choice with comfortable seats. Choose Business Class for a more relaxed experience, especially if you prefer more room and amenities. For Amtrak's services, visit their website.
• Upon arrival at the Michigan City train station, you can expect basic amenities. The station does not typically offer luggage storage, so make sure to keep your belongings with you. There are restrooms available for your convenience, but no shower facilities. To get from the station to the city center, the fastest option is to take the #3 bus heading south towards Franklin Street. Bus schedules can be found on Michigan City Transit’s website. Plan your trip accordingly as buses may not run frequently.
🛫 Flying from Detroit to Michigan City is quick and convenient with a direct flight taking just 1 hour from Detroit Airport to South Bend Airport. Delta is one of the airlines that offers this route, providing travelers with easy access to their destination.
Departure Point
Detroit Airport
Arrival Point
South Bend Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Detroit to Michigan City by bus, with a travel time of approximately 6 hours and 43 minutes. 💰 Enjoy affordable travel options, as the prices for a bus ticket between Michigan City and Detroit range from $35 to $108, providing flexibility for different budget preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Detroit to Michigan City.

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The distance between Detroit and Michigan City is 203 miles, with a road distance of 227 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes by train, 7 hours and 3 minutes by flying to Chicago O'Hare and then taking a train, 3 hours and 43 minutes by car, and 6 hours and 43 minutes by bus between the two cities. Choosing the most convenient mode of transportation can help optimize your travel time.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Detroit to Michigan City is to drive, with costs typically ranging from $40 to $60 and a travel time of approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes. However, the fastest way to reach Michigan City from Detroit is by flying and taking a taxi, which can take around 3 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $120 to $440. Both options offer reasonable prices and efficient travel times for reaching Michigan City from Detroit.
The prices for traveling from Detroit to Michigan City vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. For a train journey, the ticket prices range from $44 to $157. On the other hand, bus fares between the two cities range from $35 to $108. Travelers can compare these prices and choose the option that best fits their budget and preferences for the trip.
To get from Detroit to Michigan City without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 227 miles, which typically takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes. Rental car prices for this journey vary between $40 to $60, depending on the specific rental company and vehicle chosen. Driving allows you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and make any desired stops along the way, providing a convenient and budget-friendly transportation option between the two cities.
The most convenient way to travel from Detroit to Michigan City without a car is by taking the train, which typically takes around 5 hours and 17 minutes. The cost for this train journey ranges from $40 to $160. This option offers a comfortable and scenic mode of transportation between the two cities.
The quickest direct flight from Detroit Airport to South Bend Airport, which is the closest airport to Michigan City, typically takes 1 hour. However, please note that there are no direct commercial flights between Detroit and Michigan City. One alternative option could be to fly to Chicago O'Hare Airport and then take a train or drive to Michigan City. The cost of flights can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability, but expect some fluctuation in prices based on these factors.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Michigan City, with over 186 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $55 per night, providing a range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Visitors can select from a selection of hotels, motels, resorts, and vacation rentals in Michigan City, offering convenient and comfortable places to stay during their visit to the area. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability at the preferred accommodation.

Trips from Detroit