- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Cheapest price on Sep 14
$95
Average ticket price on Sep 14
$115
Fastest journey on Sep 14
15 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 14
15 h 28 m
Buses on Sep 14
17
Distance
790 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC will cost around $115 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
It's difficult to get from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC without transferring at least once.
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· Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $148 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 40m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $148, while a flight costs an average of $573.
Distance: 490 miles (790 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$148 Average price Cheapest | $252 Average price | $573 Average price | $129 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 11m Average total duration 17h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 19h 1m Average total duration 18h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC:
A bus is $105 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC costing on average $252.
A bus is $425 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC costing on average $573.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 17h 41m.
Train takes on average 18h 31m.
Tickets start at around $148 compared to roughly $129 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-18.78. The journey takes 17h 41m versus 8h 56m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 25h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:10AM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 15h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 18h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $106 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 15h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 19h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 26h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 11:05PM | Duration 28h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:05PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 28h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 23h55 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 25h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $93 |
The table below shows live departures for Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC buses for today, Sunday, September 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· | 9:10 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 15h40 | 12:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 12:05 PM Indianapolis, IN | 18h40 | 6:45 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
· | 3:35 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 15h10 | 6:45 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ · | 4:20 PM Indianapolis, IN | 19h15 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:35 PM Indianapolis, IN | 26h15 | 8:50 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
· + FlixBus | 8:05 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 29h30 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 2 transfers | |
· | 8:05 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 15h30 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
· · | 8:10 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 28h40 | 12:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:25 PM Indianapolis, IN | 23h55 | 11:20 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, September 14 | |||||
FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:15 AM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 25h20 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:15 AM Indianapolis, IN | 25h20 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 12:15 AM Indianapolis, IN | 15h30 | 3:45 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 12:15 AM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 15h30 | 3:45 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC run on average 9 times per day, taking around 17h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $89 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 490 miles (790 km) distance in 11h 30m.
Distance 490 miles (790 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $89 |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 11h 30m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.
A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.
The National Mall is Washington's grand civic promenade, lined with museums, memorials, and classic views ideal for first-time visitors.
Georgetown charms with historic streets, rowhouses, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make it one of the city's best walking areas.
The Tidal Basin loop offers famous cherry blossoms, water views, and easy access to several of Washington's most iconic memorials.
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is DC's signature street food, strongly tied to Ben's Chili Bowl.
Jumbo slice is an oversized late-night pizza slice popular in Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable DC nightlife food known for its huge foldable portions.
Mumbo sauce is a sweet tangy red sauce commonly served with fried chicken and wings at DC carryouts. It is a beloved local condiment with roots in Black DC food culture.
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and refined tasting menus in an elegant, contemporary dining room.
Polished seafood institution at the municipal fish market, best known for regional oysters, crab cakes, and classic Chesapeake flavors.
Historic casual landmark famous for half-smokes, chili, and a classic diner feel. A must for trying DC's best-known street food tradition.
DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Indianapolis, IN to Washington, DC buses use the Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). Use this guide to compare Indianapolis, IN and Washington, DC bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Fast food outlets are available.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. ATMs are aTM is located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station).
Available at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station): The station is wheelchair accessible.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) is 1 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). ATMs are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Ticket office support is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Sidewalks and crosswalks are wheelchair accessible.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need