- Must visit
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
World-class children's museum with science, history, dinosaurs, sports, and immersive exhibits. One of Indianapolis's signature attractions for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
$43
Average price
$85
Fastest journey
3 h 5 m
Average duration
3 h 31 m
Buses per day
14
Distance
263 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN will cost around $85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast buses
Of the 14 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Indianapolis, IN on Mon, Aug 03, 14 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 03 the direct buses cover the 263 km distance in an average of 3 h 31 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 5 m .
On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest buses will take 3 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
12:40 PM4h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:30 PMIndianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station)$431One-way0 transfers
FlixBus7:15 PM3h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:05 AMIndianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN$491One-way0 transfers- FlixBus8:00 AM3h45Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:45 PMIndianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN$491One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus1:00 PM4h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:25 PMIndianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN$501One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus11:30 AM3h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station4:10 PMIndianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN$541One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 PM3h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:50 PMIndianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station)$931One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus10:30 AM3h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station3:00 PMIndianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN$901One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 AM3h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:45 AMIndianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station)$1201One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus11:30 AM3h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station4:10 PMIndianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN$541One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus8:00 AM3h45Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:45 PMIndianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN$491One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $37 but you can travel from only $34 by train.
There are 14 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 163 miles (263 km) distance in 3h 5m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $34
Distance 163 miles (263 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 |
Buses per day 14 |
Direct buses 14 |
Fastest bus 3h 5m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 7 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $34
Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $104 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 04:15AM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 04:15AM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN buses for today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h35 | 10:45 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h50 | 11:50 AM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h45 | 12:45 PM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 4h10 | 3:05 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3h50 | 3:05 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 10:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h30 | 3:00 PM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h40 | 4:10 PM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:40 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 4h50 | 6:30 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 1:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 4h25 | 6:25 PM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h05 | 6:50 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 4h15 | 11:15 PM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h50 | 12:05 AM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 4h25 | 4:15 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4h05 | 4:15 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, INYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $34. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$52
FlixBus frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 5m
Cheapest Price
$37
Greyhound frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Indianapolis, IN
Things to do in Indianapolis, IN
Discover the best of Indianapolis, IN — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Indianapolis, IN trip today.
- Must visit
Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields
Leading art museum set on the Newfields campus, with major collections from Europe, Asia, Africa, and America plus temporary exhibitions.
- Recommended
Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
Museum and restored home of the 23rd U.S. president. Guided visits reveal politics, domestic life, and architecture from the late 1800s.
- Must visit
Central Canal
Pedestrian-friendly downtown canal lined with museums, public art, and boats. Ideal for a scenic walk and one of the city's most popular areas.
- Must visit
Monument Circle
Historic city center surrounding the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. A signature urban space for architecture, events, and classic downtown views.
- Must visit
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
Popular cultural trail linking downtown districts with public art, bike lanes, and green streetscape design. Perfect for exploring the city on foot.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Indiana pork tenderloin sandwich is a breaded, fried cutlet served on a bun, often comically oversized. It is a beloved statewide classic common in Indianapolis pubs and diners.
- Vegetarian
Sugar Cream Pie
Sugar cream pie is Indiana's state pie, made with cream, sugar, and nutmeg. Its simple farm-pantry origins make it a traditional Hoosier dessert tied closely to local identity.
- Gluten-free
St. Elmo-Style Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp cocktail in Indianapolis style features chilled shrimp with very spicy tomato-horseradish sauce. St. Elmo made this fiery version a city dining icon.
Vida
Established fine-dining restaurant serving seasonal Midwestern cuisine with polished service. Known for refined plates and a warm, contemporary atmosphere.
St. Elmo Steak House
Historic downtown steakhouse famous for aged steaks and the city's iconic fiery shrimp cocktail. Classic, upscale atmosphere with longstanding local prestige.
Harry & Izzy's
Long-running Indianapolis institution known for classic steaks, seafood, and old-school service. A traditional downtown choice with historic local character.
United States Dollar ($)
Moderate for a U.S. city: hotels and dining are mid-range, while transit is limited so many visitors use rideshare or rental cars.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-$18 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- $20-$40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-$6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-$2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Small cafe tips are appreciated but optional.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Indianapolis, IN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN can start from as little as $37 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is $57 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN is 3h 5m to travel the 163 miles (263 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 14 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Indianapolis, IN. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Indianapolis, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in busy areas like downtown and near major event venues. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or rideshare drivers and distraction tactics used to steal belongings. It's advised to use authorized transportation services, avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar areas at night, and keep valuables secure.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
Most Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building) station pair, with some services arriving at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Indianapolis, IN bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Indianapolis
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
BusGreyhound US0100 · 20m · $2
29 · 47m · $4 · every ~11 min
29 · 48m · $4 · every ~11 min
SubwayRed Line · 24m · $6 · every ~23 min
Red Line · 25m · $6 · every ~23 min
Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station)
Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building)
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Indianapolis, IN and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Indianapolis, IN
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