Train travel is booming. In the last year, The National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) has served 24+ million riders, and in 2024, the Indianapolis station served 12,121.
The more sustainable, often scenic, and middle seat-less cousin to flying — train travel could play a part in your next vacation. Here’s how to do it locally.
Meet the Cardinal
If you’re leaving from the downtown station, which is just a block from Lucas Oil Stadium, you’ll be riding on the Cardinal route. This train travels three times a week between New York and Chicago with 36 stops along its route, which is considered the most scenic in the eastern US.
- Wi-Fi | Who needs airplanes? The Cardinal has free Wi-Fi, and you’re allowed to use your phone the entire ride.
- Food + drink | This train offers cafe service (snacks and drinks for purchase), and free hot meals for sleeper car passengers.
- Accommodations | The Cardinal features Viewliner sleeper cars with various private roomettes and bedrooms. Pro tip: If you want to travel in a sleeper car, make sure to book well in advance, as they fill up quickly.
Amtrak bedrooms can easily accommodate small families for a comfortable, private travel experience.
Photo by Marc Glucksman via Amtrak
Where it takes you
Maybe you’ll take the midnight train, but you don’t wanna go just anywhere. Check out a few places you can get to from Indy. Prices may vary.
- Charleston, WV | ~8-hour trip | Coach: $64+ | Private rooms: $374+
- Washington, D.C. | ~18.5-hour trip | Coach: $152+ | Private rooms: $819+
- New York City | ~22-hour trip | Coach: $180+ | Private rooms: $790+
First stop: The ticket counter
Purchase one-way tickets online, or buy a pass — the $499 USA Rail Pass, for instance, gets you 10 rides over 30 days.
Make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure, or 45 minutes if you’re checking baggage. If you drive yourself to the station, parking is easy; there’s on-site daily and overnight parking.
