South Shore Line Will Offer Kids Ride Free Program

The South Shore Line will permit children to ride trains for free alongside a paying adult during late October.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Family Travel

Screen-print poster illustration of a child and adult silhouette on a train platform, evoking community transit access in Indiana. — The South Shore Line will offer free rail travel for children accompanied by a paying adult from October 15 through October 23, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should your local transit system offer free fares for children to encourage family travel?

Beginning October 15, 2026, the South Shore Line will implement a program allowing children to travel without a fare. The promotion will remain in effect through October 23, 2026.

Why it matters

This initiative seeks to provide affordable and convenient transportation options for families traveling throughout the region. By removing fare barriers, the program encourages rail transit for youth during the designated week.

The program allows up to three children aged 13 and younger to ride for free when accompanied by a paying adult. This offer applies to all South Shore Line trains during the specified nine-day window.

The players

South Shore Line

This rail operator provides commuter service in the region, connecting communities through its established train network.

The details

Families can take advantage of this offer by riding the South Shore Line during the active dates with a paying adult. The program is designed to facilitate easier travel for residents and visitors across the network.

The program expansion begins on October 15, 2026.
The program expansion ends on October 23, 2026.

Travel Outlook

The South Shore Line's program follows a pattern set by the American Public Transportation Association's promotion of fare-free transit incentives to increase ridership. Such initiatives serve as a tactical response to seasonal travel fluctuations across regional rail networks.

Travelers planning trips between October 15 and October 23 can reduce total costs by utilizing the free fare allowance for up to three children. Ensure that at least one adult in your party holds a valid paid ticket to qualify for the program.

The takeaway

Utilizing regional rail during promotional windows can significantly lower the overall cost of family excursions. Check local transit schedules in advance to coordinate your travel dates with the eligibility period.