How long does it take to travel between Chicago and South Bend? (transfer to)

[sina1358]

Hi,

Would you please tell me which ways can I choose to travel between Chicago and South Bend and how long do they take?
Can I travel by train?

Thanks

[domergurl]

By driving ... depends on the time of day, but count on at least 90 minutes to 2+ hours. On the train ... yes, there is a train called the South Shore which departs from the airport and ends at Randolph Street/Millenium Park. It will take roughly 2 hours as well, plus South Bend is also an hour ahead of Chicago on a permanent basis now, so you have to factor in time chages when scheduling either way.

[MkeOrd]

Give your self at least 2.5 hours on the train and 2 hours by car. It could take 3 hours by car door to door if you are going to the north suburbs and only 1.5 hours if you are going to Hyde Park. ND students can ride the SB bus for free, you have to take a bus from campus, then transfer to the airport bus so this is an option if you have something to do on the train.

Bus-Train: 4 hours
Car-Train: 3 hours
Car: 1.5-3 hours

Now, the Indiana Toll Road has just gone to an Electronic toll system (40% discount) and much of Chicago has the "open road" I-Pass system (50% discount). The best deal is the Illinois-based I-Pass transponder (The I-zoom marketed by Indiana stinks and is more expensive to own and operate). As soon as you get out of SB you can listen to AM Radio 780 (WBBM) to hear traffic reports.

The train information is at: Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District
Bus information is at: TRANSPO | Where Life Takes You...
WBBM Traffic:for traffic WBBM 780 - Chicago's #1 source for local news, traffic and weather - Traffic - V2
I-PASS:www.illinoistollway.com/