INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Transportation recently announced it has signed long-term passenger rail agreements with Amtrak, Iowa Pacific Holdings and on-line communities for the Hoosier State train, which operates four days per week between Chicago and Indianapolis. The new service began Aug. 2.
The train will offer fresh food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, for purchase on board, and passengers can stay productive or enjoy the journey with limited free Wi-Fi service in all passenger cars. The Hoosier State’s Wi-Fi network uses available bandwidth from cellular carriers along the tracks.
One of the three passenger cars will be a unique dome lounge, which will soon house business-class seating with hot meals and drinks included. For a limited time, Hoosier State coach passengers may enjoy the dome lounge and its curved glass windows that extend overhead at no additional charge. Seats are available on a first come, first served basis, and each table generally seats four passengers.
The four-days-weekly Hoosier State (Trains 850 & 851) combines with the three-days-weekly Amtrak Cardinal (Trains 50 & 51) to provide daily service between Indianapolis and Chicago.
Tickets are available at Amtrak.com, 800-USA-RAIL and other sales channels, including Amtrak mobile apps. Hoosier State adult coach fares range from $24 to $48 each way and are subject to discounts and two rewards programs, the Rail Baron Club and Amtrak Guest Rewards. Amtrak eTickets, paper tickets and reservations will continue to be issued, and existing tickets will be honored with no changes in fares, schedules or procedures.