Indianapolis, IN to St. Louis, MO (249 Mi)

Best Ways to Travel

Driving (4h 30m):
* Quickest and most convenient option
* Toll roads available (estimated $10)
* Parking in downtown St. Louis can be expensive

Train (11h 40m):
* Comfortable and provides scenic views
* Amtrak provides daily service
* One-way ticket prices range from $40-$100

Bus (5h 45m):
* Affordable and offers multiple daily departures
* Greyhound and Megabus offer services
* One-way ticket prices typically range from $25-$40

Flying (1h 20m):
* Fastest but most expensive option
* Spirit Airlines and American Airlines offer direct flights
* Round-trip ticket prices can exceed $200

Detailed Guide

Driving:

1. Take I-70 W from Indianapolis.
2. Follow I-70 W through Indiana and Illinois.
3. Cross the Mississippi River into Missouri.
4. Exit I-70 W onto I-270 S.
5. Take I-270 S to downtown St. Louis.

Toll Roads:

• I-70 W in Indiana has a toll of $2.50 for passenger vehicles.
• I-294 S in Illinois has a toll of $2.30 for passenger vehicles.

Parking in Downtown St. Louis:

• Metered street parking is available but limited.
• Consider using a parking garage or lot, which can cost $10-$20 per day.

Train:

• Amtrak's Hoosier State train departs daily from Indianapolis Union Station.
• The train travels through scenic rural areas and stops inTerre Haute, IN and Effingham, IL before arriving in St. Louis Union Station.

Bus:

• Greyhound and Megabus offer multiple daily departures from Indianapolis Bus Terminal.
• Buses stop at a variety of locations in St. Louis, including the Gateway Arch Visitor Center.

Flying:

• Spirit Airlines and American Airlines offer direct flights between Indianapolis International Airport (IND) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL).
• The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Tips and Tricks

• Consider carpooling or using a ride-sharing service to save on transportation costs.
• Book train or bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times.
• Pack snacks and drinks on the bus or train to save money on food.
• Look for discounts on parking garages or lots in downtown St. Louis.
• Consider staying in a hotel or Airbnb outside of downtown St. Louis for more affordable accommodation.

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Choose Your Preferred Mode of Transportation

• Consider the factors discussed above (cost, time, convenience) to make the best choice.

2. Book Your Travel

• Book train or bus tickets in advance, especially if traveling during peak season.
• Purchase plane tickets as early as possible to get the best deals.

3. Plan Your Route

• If driving, map out your route and familiarize yourself with toll roads and parking options.

4. Pack and Prepare

• Pack comfortable clothes and shoes for walking.
• Bring snacks and drinks to save on food costs.
• Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.

5. Relax and Enjoy the Journey

• Enjoy the scenic views or simply relax and take in the experience.

Comparing Options

Tables

1. Travel Costs

2. Travel Times

3. Transportation Providers

4. Parking Options in Downtown St. Louis