Booking Amtrak In Indiana..!!
Indiana might be known for its highways, but did you know the Crossroads of America also offers a scenic and relaxing way to travel by rail? Amtrak provides a fantastic alternative to driving, allowing you to sit back, enjoy the journey, and arrive refreshed.
Whether you’re visiting for Purdue University, exploring Indianapolis’s vibrant downtown, or connecting to major cities like Chicago or Cincinnati, Amtrak’s service through Indiana offers a unique perspective. This complete guide will walk you through each Amtrak station in the Hoosier State, detailing what to expect and its proximity to key cities and airports.
The Amtrak Route Through Indiana: The Cardinal
Currently, the primary Amtrak route serving Indiana with scheduled stops is the Cardinal. This historic route runs three times a week between Chicago and New York City/Washington D.C., offering breathtaking views and a relaxed travel experience. It traverses the state from northwest to southeast, making stops in several charming Hoosier communities.
Important Note: Always check Amtrak’s official website (www.amtrak.com) for the most current schedules, fares, and service updates, as times and availability can change.
Your Indiana Amtrak Stations: A Stop-by-Stop Guide
Let’s explore each Amtrak station in Indiana, moving generally from west/northwest to east/southeast along the Cardinal route.
1. Dyer, Indiana (DYE)
Located in Northwest Indiana, Dyer is a convenient gateway for those coming from or heading to the Chicago metropolitan area without going directly into the bustling city center. It’s a small, unstaffed station primarily serving commuters and regional travelers.
Station Features: Enclosed waiting area, platform. Route: Cardinal
| Destination City/Airport | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Chicago, IL (Loop) | 30 |
| Hammond, IN | 10 |
| Valparaiso, IN | 20 |
| O’Hare Int’l Airport (ORD) | 55 |
| Midway Int’l Airport (MDW) | 35 |
| Gary/Chicago Int’l (GYY) | 15 |
2. Rensselaer, Indiana (REN)
Rensselaer is a small city in rural Jasper County, known for its agricultural roots and as the former home of Saint Joseph’s College. The Amtrak stop here provides access to a quieter part of the state. It’s an unstaffed shelter.
Station Features: Small shelter, platform. Route: Cardinal
| Destination City/Airport | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Lafayette, IN | 38 |
| Monticello, IN | 20 |
| Indianapolis, IN | 85 |
| Indianapolis Int’l Airport (IND) | 95 |
3. Lafayette, Indiana (LAF)
Home to Purdue University, Lafayette (and its adjacent city, West Lafayette) is a vibrant college town with a rich history, cultural attractions, and a bustling downtown. The Amtrak station is located conveniently near the city center. This station is unstaffed.
Station Features: Enclosed waiting area, platform. Route: Cardinal
| Destination City/Airport | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| West Lafayette, IN | 2 |
| Crawfordsville, IN | 30 |
| Indianapolis, IN | 65 |
| Indianapolis Int’l Airport (IND) | 75 |
4. Crawfordsville, Indiana (CRF)
Crawfordsville is a charming city known for Wabash College, its historic architecture, and as the county seat of Montgomery County. The Amtrak station offers a glimpse into small-town Indiana life. This is an unstaffed shelter.
Station Features: Small shelter, platform. Route: Cardinal
| Destination City/Airport | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Lafayette, IN | 30 |
| Indianapolis, IN | 45 |
| Bloomington, IN | 65 |
| Indianapolis Int’l Airport (IND) | 55 |
5. Indianapolis, Indiana (IND) – Union Station
Indianapolis’s Union Station is a historic gem, serving as a major transportation hub for the state capital. While the station itself is a grand architectural marvel, Amtrak services are typically handled at a more modest platform adjacent to the main building. Indianapolis offers a wealth of attractions, from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to world-class museums and a thriving culinary scene. This station is staffed.
Station Features: Ticket office, waiting area, restrooms, accessible services, historic building. Route: Cardinal
| Destination City/Airport | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Bloomington, IN | 52 |
| Cincinnati, OH | 110 |
| Louisville, KY | 115 |
| Columbus, OH | 175 |
| Indianapolis Int’l Airport (IND) | 12 |
6. Connersville, Indiana (COV)
Connersville is a historic industrial city in eastern Indiana, known for its preserved architecture and as home to the Whitewater Valley Railroad, a historic scenic railway. The Amtrak stop provides access to a quieter, more historic part of the state. This is an unstaffed shelter.
Station Features: Small shelter, platform. Route: Cardinal
| Destination City/Airport | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Richmond, IN | 35 |
| Cincinnati, OH | 65 |
| Dayton, OH | 70 |
| Indianapolis, IN | 60 |
| Indianapolis Int’l Airport (IND) | 70 |
| Cincinnati/N. KY Airport (CVG) | 75 |
7. Richmond, Indiana (RIC)
Richmond is Indiana’s easternmost Amtrak stop, located right on the Ohio border. Historically a gateway to the west and a significant site in the Underground Railroad, Richmond boasts a rich heritage, including a vibrant jazz history and beautiful Victorian homes. This is an unstaffed station.
Station Features: Enclosed waiting area, platform. Route: Cardinal
| Destination City/Airport | Approx. Distance (Miles) |
|---|---|
| Dayton, OH | 45 |
| Cincinnati, OH | 70 |
| Columbus, OH | 95 |
| Indianapolis, IN | 70 |
| Dayton Int’l Airport (DAY) | 50 |
| Cincinnati/N. KY Airport (CVG) | 80 |
Tips for Traveling Amtrak in Indiana
- Book in Advance: Especially for the Cardinal, which runs three times a week, tickets can sell out. Booking early often secures better fares.
- Arrive Early: Even for unstaffed stations, it’s wise to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure you’re ready when the train arrives.
- Check Status: Use the Amtrak app or website to check your train’s status in real-time. Delays can happen.
- Luggage: Amtrak has generous luggage allowances compared to airlines.
- Food & Drink: The Cardinal usually has a Dining Car and/or Café Car. You can also bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Enjoy the View: Train travel offers a unique perspective on the landscape. Bring a book, gaze out the window, or simply relax.
- Accessibility: Most Amtrak stations and trains are wheelchair accessible, but it’s always best to notify Amtrak in advance of any special needs.
Why Choose Amtrak for Your Indiana Journey?
- Relaxation: No traffic, no navigating, no stress.
- Scenery: Enjoy views you’d miss from the highway.
- Comfort: More legroom and space than other forms of public transport.
- Productivity: Catch up on work, read, or simply unwind.
- Eco-Friendly: Train travel is a more sustainable option than driving or flying.
Whether you’re a seasoned rail enthusiast or looking for a fresh way to explore Indiana, Amtrak offers a memorable and convenient journey. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider hopping aboard and experiencing the Hoosier State by rail!