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All Aboard! Ride the South Shore to Michigan City’s Sleek New 11th Street Station

All Aboard! Ride the South Shore to Michigan City’s Sleek New 11th Street Station

There’s a new reason to plan your next getaway by rail—Michigan City’s brand-new 11th Street South Shore Line Station has officially opened its doors, offering a modern, welcoming gateway to Lake Michigan’s shoreline, unique shopping, vibrant arts, and culinary delights.

And the best part? You can be here in just 90 minutes from Chicago’s Millennium Station—no traffic, no tolls, just a relaxing ride.

A Station Built for Comfort & Convenience

The new station isn’t just a stop—it’s an experience.

  • Bright & Spacious: Comfortable waiting area, restrooms, and vendor kiosks.
  • History on Display: A mini exhibit celebrates the South Shore Line’s century-plus journey, complete with an interactive model train that kids (and train buffs) will love.

Parking Made Easy

Whether you’re catching the train or just visiting downtown, the new parking garage makes it easy:

  • 542 Free Parking Spaces — 437 reserved for South Shore riders on weekdays until 2 PM, then open for everyone in the evenings and weekends.
  • Perfect for Events: Park here for concerts, festivals, or a sunset stroll to the lake.
  • Overflow Options — Adjacent surface lots make parking stress-free.

Faster, More Reliable Service

Thanks to the Double Track Northwest Indiana Project, Michigan City now has two continuous tracks—Track 1 heading eastbound and Track 2 heading westbound. The result? Fewer delays, more frequent trains, and smoother travel in both directions.

Steps from Everything You Love

Once you step off the train, you’re right in the heart of the action:

  • Uptown Arts District — Galleries, artisan shops, and public art in a lively creative hub.
  • Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets — Over 80 designer and brand-name stores.
  • Washington Park & Beachfront — Sandy shoreline, grassy picnic spots, and a scenic lighthouse.
  • Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa — Gaming, dining, and live entertainment.
  • Franklin at 11th Street/Coming Soon — A developing mix of apartments, boutiques, and restaurants right at the station.

Kids Ride Free

On weekends, holidays, and off-peak weekday trains, up to three kids (13 and under) ride free per paying adult—making family adventures even more affordable.

Hop On at Multiple Stations

While Millennium Station is the main Chicago starting point, you can also board at several convenient stops along the way—including Van Buren Street, Museum Campus/11th Street, 57th Street, Hammond, East Chicago, Dune Park, and others. Trains also run from the east, with stations stretching all the way to South Bend, making it easy to reach Michigan City from either direction.

Plan Your Trip

1. Check the Schedule — Find your perfect departure time.

2. Buy Tickets — Use the South Shore mobile app or ticket vending machines.

3. Relax & Ride — Arrive 15 minutes early, settle in, and enjoy the journey.

Make Michigan City Your Next Stop

Whether it’s outlet shopping, beach days, art strolls, or a night at the casino, Michigan City’s new 11th Street Station makes it easier than ever to skip the stress of driving and let the rails bring you right to the heart of it all.

Pack your day bag, grab your ticket, and we’ll see you on the platform!