South Shore Line Stations?

[nate77]

Hey, NW Indiana folks, we are riding the train up to Chicago tomorrow for the first time.

Which station do you guys recommend getting on at? Parking? Nice safe area?

Looking to board in the morning off peak so my daughter can ride free.

Southbend is closest to me, but it doesn't look like many trains leave from there, and the parking isn't free.

Thanks in advance for the help, also any other South Shore tips would be appreciated.

 

[mom45]

I always parked at Dune Park in Chesterton and never had any issues. I lived in Chesterton though and it was only a mile from where I was living at the time. If we take the train, that is where we go to pick it up.

 

[HoughMade]

I always parked at Dune Park in Chesterton and never had any issues. I lived in Chesterton though and it was only a mile from where I was living at the time. If we take the train, that is where we go to pick it up.

That's where I go, but I live about 12 miles almost straight south from there, so it's the closest.

 

[nate77]

Is there usually any parking on late morning weekday?

thanks

 

[HoughMade]

You may have to park in the east lot, but yes.

 

[rosejm]

Yup. I'd recommend Dune Park also. Easy in and out from IN-49 which will get you to any of the Interstate or US routes.
The only other option might be the East Chicago station, but it's further toward the city and Dune Park is just a nicer experience IMO.

Give yourself a few minutes to buy tickets in the station (CC machines, I don't know if/when they staff the window in Dune Park). You can pay cash on the train but the ticket's $1 more if the window was open at the station.

Bring a book or a paper and maybe some snacks. And while I wouldn't hang out in between cars, you might take a few minutes between stations.

 

[KittySlayer]

Dunes Park for me to although it has been a couple years. I drive from Ft. Wayne and while South Bend might be closer parking at Dunes makes the total travel time work better while still avoiding Chicago traffic and parking.

 

[nate77]

Dunes park it is, thanks.

If i get on at dune park, how long will it take to get to millennium station?

 

[mom45]

The schedule for the trains should still be online at the NICTD web site. I think it used to take me about an hour and a half. East Chicago has a much bigger lot but way more issues with vandalism/break ins to vehicles. I had a friend that used to park at Ogden Dunes. She had two cars stolen there.

Convenient Train Service to Chicago and Northwest Indiana

 

[nate77]

Thanks everyone, no problems boarding the train at dunes park, made it with 20 minutes to spare, and even found a front row parking spot.

 

[mom45]

Thanks everyone, no problems boarding the train at dunes park, made it with 20 minutes to spare, and even found a front row parking spot.