13 Affordable Places to Fly From Indianapolis for Your Next Trip

Finding cheap flights from Indianapolis can feel about as fun as sitting in I-465 traffic. After countless hours hunting deals from IND (and maybe stress eating a few too many sugar cream pies), I’ve discovered some seriously affordable destinations that don’t require a connection through Chicago. While everyone else is spending a fortune to get to Orlando, you could be wandering through Old San Juan or exploring Mexico City’s incredible food scene.

I’ve found some of the best places in Indianapolis to catch flights that won’t drain your bank account. Just last month, I grabbed a $200 roundtrip to Denver, where the mountain views and craft beer scene make you forget all about those Indiana cornfields. Here are 13 destinations that prove you don’t need to drive to Chicago for decent flight deals.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Indianapolis

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. IND) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 20242 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $221 roundtrip fare from Boston to London. On average, I save about $300 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Where to Fly Cheap from Indianapolis

Looking for cheap flights from Indianapolis? Fly to Chicago for iconic architecture and deep-dish pizza, visit Atlanta for a mix of history and vibrant city life, or explore Denver for outdoor adventures in the Rockies. Head to Dallas for world-class dining and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in city escapes, history, or outdoor fun, these are top affordable destinations from Indianapolis.

Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

1. Indianapolis to Chicago ($44–$120 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: United, American, Southwest (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October 🌆 for outdoor activities and lake fun
• 🏆 Perfect for: Architecture fans 🏙️, food lovers 🍕, big city explorers 🚶

Chicago is that rare city where skyscrapers meet lake views and locals actually smile at you. It’s packed with world-class architecture, incredible food, and big city buzz without the sky-high prices or pretension of the coasts.

You’ll definitely stop at Millennium Park to take a photo with the Bean (technically it’s Cloud Gate, but no one calls it that). The Chicago Riverwalk is ideal for a chill afternoon, with waterfront bars, public art, and boat tours rolling by every few minutes. For the best views in the country, head to the Willis Tower Skydeck or the glass ledge at 360 CHICAGO, where you can see four states on a clear day. Summer and early fall are the best times to visit, with perfect weather for outdoor festivals, rooftop bars, and even beach days along Lake Michigan.

Flights from Indianapolis are quick and cheap, with plenty of daily options. United and American run nonstop routes into O’Hare, while Southwest usually offers the best bang for your buck, especially with free checked bags. For such a short flight, you can be in downtown Chicago faster than it takes to cross some parts of Indy during rush hour.

Want even more affordable destination ideas? Check out this full guide on the cheapest places to fly from Chicago.

2. Indianapolis to Atlanta ($99–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Southwest, Spirit (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May & September-November 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, food enthusiasts 🍗, culture seekers 🎭

Atlanta is where Southern hospitality meets creative energy, with buzzing neighborhoods, bold flavors, and a culture scene that’s way deeper than most people expect. It’s big, diverse, and full of surprises around every corner.

The Atlanta BeltLine is a reclaimed rail line turned pedestrian paradise that links some of the city’s coolest neighborhoods. Think breweries, food halls, and colorful murals around every turn. Little Five Points keeps things weird with vintage stores, dive bars, and a local crowd that might include a famous rapper grabbing a slice. For food that’ll make you forget Indy’s low-key culinary scene, check out Ponce City Market, where an old Sears building now houses gourmet popsicles, ramen stalls, rooftop games, and killer city views.

Delta has the most flights on this route since Atlanta is its main hub, but Southwest and Spirit keep prices competitive if you’re flexible. Visit in the spring when dogwoods are blooming and patios are packed, or plan a fall trip to dodge the summer humidity while still enjoying festival season and great weather.

• Read Next: Affordable Places to Fly from Atlanta

3. Indianapolis to Denver ($113–$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: United, Southwest, Frontier (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October 🏔️ for outdoor adventures and April for skiing deals ⛷️
• 🏆 Perfect for: Mountain lovers 🏔️, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, outdoor adventurers 🥾

Denver is like Indy’s cooler, mountain-dwelling cousin. This city has all the Midwest friendliness with a side of epic outdoor adventure.

Union Station is way more than just a train station. It’s packed with killer restaurants and bars in a renovated historic building. Larimer Square is this cool downtown block with string lights and Victorian buildings full of shops and restaurants that don’t suck. For day trips, Garden of the Gods near Colorado Springs has those massive red rocks that look fake in photos.

When it comes to flights, Frontier sometimes drops fares below $60 one-way from Indy, but they’ll charge you extra for everything including your carry-on and picking a seat. Southwest costs more upfront but includes two free checked bags. 

September is prime time for visiting. Summer tourists are gone, the weather’s still perfect, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the aspens turning gold in the mountains.

• Read Next: Cheap Places to Fly from Denver

4. Indianapolis to Dallas ($151–$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Southwest, Spirit (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May & September-November 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban cowboys 🤠, food enthusiasts 🍖, sports fans 🏈

Dallas is where big-city luxury meets bold Texas personality. You’ll find world-class museums, incredible food, and neighborhoods that each feel like their own little universe.

Start in Deep Ellum, the city’s historic entertainment district packed with live music, massive murals, and restaurants inside converted industrial buildings. For a more artsy vibe, the Dallas Museum of Art is free and genuinely worth a visit, while Klyde Warren Park is a grassy hangout spot built right over a freeway, with food trucks and lawn games popping up daily. 

American Airlines offers the most nonstop flights since Dallas is their home base, but Southwest competes hard on price and includes two checked bags. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for patio dining and exploring outdoor spots like the Dallas Arboretum, especially when the gardens are in bloom. 

If you’re looking for affordable getaways, here’s a guide to the cheapest places to fly from Dallas.

5. Indianapolis to Orlando ($102–$165 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Frontier, Southwest, Delta (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January-April & September-November 🎢 for lower humidity
• 🏆 Perfect for: Theme park enthusiasts 🎢, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, winter escapees ☀️

Orlando is where adults can fully embrace their inner kid without getting side-eyed. This city serves up legendary theme parks, perfect weather during Indy’s deep freeze, and a surprisingly strong local food scene once you break away from the tourist zones.

Disney World is the obvious heavyweight, with four massive parks that each deserve a full day. But if you’re more into butterbeer and wand battles than princesses and parades, Universal Studios is where the real magic lives. Beyond the big-name parks, take a breather in Winter Park, a beautiful neighborhood known for its oak-lined streets, scenic boat tours, and restaurants that don’t involve character mascots or souvenir mugs.

Flights from Indy are frequent and budget-friendly. Spirit and Frontier regularly offer roundtrip fares under $120, especially if you can pack light and book during Tuesday sales. January through March is prime time to visit, with sunny 70-degree days and way fewer crowds than summer.

• Read Next: Best Airports in Orlando

6. Indianapolis to Las Vegas ($75–$150 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Spirit, Southwest, American (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May & October-November 🎲 for milder temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Entertainment seekers 🎭, pool partiers 🏊, gambling enthusiasts 🎰

Las Vegas is basically an adult theme park where the lights never turn off. This desert playground is all about going big: mega resorts, wild shows, rooftop bars, and pool parties that feel like music videos. Even if you don’t gamble, it’s worth visiting just for the spectacle.

The Strip is where it all happens. You’ve got the dancing fountains at the Bellagio, gondola rides at the Venetian, and a roller coaster wrapped around the New York-New York Hotel. Cirque du Soleil shows are on another level, with performers doing things that don’t seem physically possible. For sky-high views, ride the High Roller or grab cocktails at the Cosmopolitan rooftop bar while watching the city light up.

Roundtrip flights from Indianapolis are often under $100 with budget carriers, especially if you book light and early during a Tuesday sale. March through May and October through November are ideal, with warm pool weather and manageable crowds. 

• Read Next: Best Airports in Las Vegas

7. Indianapolis to Minneapolis ($55–$125 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Sun Country, United, American (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June-September 🌲 and December-February ❄️ for seasonal activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Lake lovers 🏊‍♀️, food explorers 🍽️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌲

Minneapolis is way more than just a flyover city. This place totally crushes the Midwest stereotype with killer food, tons of lakes right in the city, and cultural stuff that rivals coastal spots.

The Chain of Lakes gives you legit beaches and rental kayaks within biking distance of downtown, and the Stone Arch Bridge area is perfect for that skyline shot everyone posts. First Avenue is this legendary music venue where Prince got his start, and you’ll find purple tributes to him all over town. The food scene here is surprisingly awesome with everything from Scandinavian-inspired fine dining to local burger joints.

Summer here is absolutely prime time when the city goes nuts for outdoor everything with free concerts at Lake Harriet and patios everywhere. When it comes to flights, Delta hubs out of MSP Airport so they’ve got the most flight options, but Sun Country sometimes drops crazy deals in the $75 range if you book a couple months out. 

8. Indianapolis to Charlotte ($92–$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American, Delta, United (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October 🍂 for ideal temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Banking professionals 💼, sports fans 🏈, craft beer lovers 🍺

Charlotte is where Southern hospitality meets a rising creative scene. This banking hub has transformed into a destination with trendy neighborhoods, outdoor spaces, and a seriously underrated food scene.

Uptown (what locals call downtown) is packed with sleek skyscrapers, sports venues, and museums like the interactive NASCAR Hall of Fame which is surprisingly cool even if you don’t care about racing. NoDa (North Davidson) is the artsy district with colorful murals, craft breweries, and live music venues in converted textile mills. 

This route is dominated by American Airlines since Charlotte is their second-largest hub, giving you tons of daily flight options. Spring brings perfect weather with temperatures in the 70s and gorgeous blooming trees throughout the city, while fall offers comfortable temperatures without summer’s brutal humidity. The airport connects directly to Uptown via the LYNX light rail for just $2.20, saving you $25+ on airport taxis.

• Read Next: Budget-Friendly Destinations from Charlotte

9. Indianapolis to Philadelphia ($103–$170 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American, United, Spirit (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food lovers 🧀, urban explorers 🚶

Philadelphia is what happens when you mix history with attitude. This East Coast city gives you all the urban grit of New York but with way more chill, better sandwiches, and streets you can actually pronounce.

Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are the obvious tourist spots, but the real Philly is in places like Reading Terminal Market where you can sample everything from Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods to authentic cheesesteaks under one roof. Fishtown has transformed from working-class neighborhood to hipster haven with craft breweries, indie music venues, and amazing restaurants lining streets still dotted with old row houses. 

Flying from Indy to Philly is super straightforward with multiple daily options. Spirit usually has the cheapest base fares but will charge you for everything including existing. For the best time to visit, spring and fall hit that sweet spot with pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring this super walkable city without the summer humidity that can make the air feel like soup.

• Read Next: Cheap Flights from Philadelphia

10. Indianapolis to Fort Lauderdale ($111–$185 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, Delta, American (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April 🌴 for perfect beach weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, cruise departures 🚢, winter escapees ☀️

Swapping Indianapolis’ freezing wind chills for Fort Lauderdale’s ocean breeze is a no-brainer. This South Florida gem dishes out sunshine, white sand, and chill vibes just 30 minutes north of flashy Miami. It’s the perfect winter escape, with ideal beach weather from December through April. 

Start your day strolling Las Olas Boulevard, where boutiques, brunch spots, and breezy patios invite you to soak in the sun. Venice of America isn’t just a nickname—its winding canals make water taxis the go-to for bar hopping and sightseeing. 

Spirit Airlines usually offers the cheapest roundtrip flights, especially if you catch their Tuesday sales and travel light. With over ten daily flights from Indy, getting there is easy and affordable. 

11. Indianapolis to Nashville ($74–$130 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Allegiant, American (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-November 🎸 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, food enthusiasts 🍗, weekend revelers 🎉

Nashville is basically a giant playground for adults who love live music, comfort food, and day drinking. This Tennessee capital delivers incredible tunes, Southern hospitality, and a food scene that goes way beyond hot chicken.

Broadway is the famous strip where neon-lit honky-tonks blast live country music from morning till night, while neighborhoods like East Nashville offer a more hipster vibe with vintage shops, craft cocktail bars, and restaurants where locals actually hang out. The Gulch gives you that perfect Instagram moment with the famous “What Lifts You” wing mural and upscale eateries housed in former industrial buildings.

This quick flight from Indianapolis makes Nashville one of the easiest weekend getaways around. Southwest typically offers the best combination of price and perks with their free checked bags policy, while Allegiant sometimes has dirt-cheap basic fares if you can travel light. May brings perfect temperatures and outdoor concerts, making it ideal for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions. 

12. Indianapolis to St. Louis ($89–$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, American, United (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October 🍂 for ideal temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Sports fans ⚾, architecture buffs 🏛️, budget travelers 💰

St. Louis is seriously underrated and way more interesting than people give it credit for. This riverfront city delivers major attractions without big city prices or crowds, especially in spring and early fall when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring on foot.

The iconic Gateway Arch isn’t just for looking at. You can ride a tiny tram to the top for sweeping views of downtown and the Mississippi River. Forest Park is even bigger than Central Park and completely free, with trails, museums, and the St. Louis Zoo, which locals swear is one of the best in the country. For something totally different, the City Museum is a massive climbable playground made from salvaged materials, where adults are encouraged to crawl through tunnels and ride multi-story slides with zero judgment.

Flights from Indianapolis are short, frequent, and budget-friendly. Southwest usually offers the best value with multiple departures and two free checked bags. 

13. Indianapolis to Tampa ($107–$175 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Frontier, Spirit (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October-May 🌴 for perfect weather without extreme humidity
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, sports fans ⚾, outdoor enthusiasts 🌊

Tampa is Florida’s chiller, less flashy Gulf Coast gem. This bay city offers pristine beaches, Cuban-influenced culture, and a booming food scene without the South Beach prices or attitude.

Tampa Riverwalk stretches along the water connecting cool museums, parks, and restaurants with killer waterfront views. Ybor City is the historic district with brick streets, old cigar factories turned into shops, and some serious nightlife energy. The nearby beaches are the real stars though Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach regularly rank among America’s best with powder-white sand and sunset views that make your Instagram followers jealous.

The winter months here are why Midwesterners flock to Florida while Indianapolis is dealing with snow and freezing temps, Tampa enjoys sunny 70-75°F days perfect for beach hopping and outdoor dining. For flights, Southwest dominates this route with the most direct flights and includes two free checked bags for all your beach gear. Frontier and Spirit compete with lower base fares but pile on fees for everything else. 

• Read Next: Unique Travel Experiences to Try

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Indianapolis

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Indianapolis? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Indianapolis to anywhere.

What are the cheapest cities to fly from Indianapolis?

Some of the cheapest places to fly from Indianapolis include cities like Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, Dallas, Orlando, and more. Check local flight comparison sites for the most up-to-date prices.

When is the best time to book the cheapest flights from PDX or Indianapolis?

It’s generally advised to book flights 2-3 months in advance for the best deals. However, always keep an eye out for airline promotions and deals.

Do any airlines offer direct cheap flights from PDX?

Yes, several airlines offer direct flights depending on the destination. For instance, Southwest Airlines often has direct flights to Tampa and Orlando.

What cities can you fly to direct from Indianapolis?

Indianapolis International Airport (IND) serves as a hub for various airlines. As such, it offers direct flights to numerous destinations across the United States and some international locations. However, please note that flight routes and availability can change frequently due to airline scheduling, seasonal variations, and other factors.

Here’s a general list of cities you might be able to fly to directly from Indianapolis:

Domestic Destinations:

• Atlanta
• Boston
• Chicago
• Dallas
• Denver
• Houston
• Las Vegas
• Los Angeles
• Miami
• New York City
• Orlando
• Philadelphia
• Phoenix
• San Francisco
• Seattle
• Washington, D.C.

International Destinations:

• Cancún, Mexico
• Toronto, Canada

Are international flights more expensive than domestic ones?

Not necessarily! While international flights can be pricier due to longer distances and taxes, you can still find cheap destinations from Indianapolis to international locations, especially during airline sales or off-peak seasons.

Which websites should I use to find the cheapest places to fly from PDX?

Popular websites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Google Flights are great tools. Remember to also check airlines’ official sites for exclusive deals.

Do flight prices vary from the Indianapolis airport depending on the season?

Yes, destinations like Orlando might be pricier during school vacations, while flights to warmer destinations can be more expensive in the winter.

Are last-minute flights from Indianapolis cheaper?

Last-minute flights can sometimes offer great deals, but they’re a gamble. It’s generally better to book in advance.

Are there any nearby alternative airports to Indianapolis that might offer cheaper flights?

While Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is the primary airport, you might also consider checking flights from Cincinnati or Louisville for potential deals.

How do I know if I’m getting a good deal on my flight from Indianapolis?

A good benchmark is to compare the current prices with historical data. Tools like Google Flights can show price trends for specific routes.

Are weekday flights cheaper than weekend flights from Indianapolis?

Often, flights departing on a Tuesday or Wednesday can be cheaper than those departing on weekends. However, it’s always good to compare prices across different days.