- Must visit
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Major art museum known for its broad collection spanning Asian art, European painting, contemporary works, and the iconic Shuttlecocks on the lawn.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Alton, IL to Kansas City, MO among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 5h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $138.
Distance: 236 miles (380 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$43 Average price Cheapest | $222 Average price | $50 Average price | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 22m Average total duration 6h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 17m Average total duration 6h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 43m Average total duration Fastest 5h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Alton, IL to Kansas City, MO:
A train is $7 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Alton, IL to Kansas City, MO costing on average $50 (€41).
A train is $179 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Alton, IL to Kansas City, MO costing on average $222 (€182).
Other travel options to Kansas City, MO take longer:
Flight takes on average 6h 17m.
Train takes on average 6h 52m.
Tickets start at around $43 (€35) compared to roughly $52 (€43) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $9 (€7). The journey takes 6h 52m versus 3h 51m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Alton, IL to Kansas City, MO run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:01, the last at 13:59. The fastest train covers the 236 miles (380 km) distance in 6h 52m.
Distance 236 miles (380 km) |
Average train duration 6h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€30) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 52m |
First train 7:01 AM |
Last train 1:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Discover the best of Kansas City — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kansas City trip today.
Major art museum known for its broad collection spanning Asian art, European painting, contemporary works, and the iconic Shuttlecocks on the lawn.
The United States’ official World War I museum, presenting powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and a memorial complex with sweeping city views.
Highly regarded museum celebrating the history, athletes, and cultural impact of Negro Leagues baseball in the United States.
Signature shopping and walking district known for Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains, lights, and one of the city’s most polished urban experiences.
Creative neighborhood filled with galleries, murals, studios, and warehouses, especially popular for art walks and photography.
Historic riverfront district with walkable streets, older commercial buildings, and a lively local atmosphere near downtown.
Slow-smoked pork ribs coated with a thick, sweet, tomato-molasses sauce. They are one of the signature foods most associated with Kansas City barbecue.
Smoky, caramelized cubes cut from the point end of a beef brisket, prized for their bark and rich flavor. Burnt ends are a classic Kansas City barbecue specialty.
Beef brisket seasoned with a spice rub and smoked low and slow until tender. It is a staple of Kansas City barbecue culture and often served with sauce on the side.
Iconic casual barbecue spot famous for ribs, burnt ends, and the Z-Man sandwich, with a lively no-frills atmosphere.
Modern, chef-driven barbecue restaurant serving polished versions of Kansas City staples in a more upscale, comfortable setting.
Established local favorite with a broader menu, excellent smoked meats, and a refined barbecue experience suited to groups and dinners.
Moderate by U.S. city standards. Dining and coffee are reasonable, while hotels vary by season and events.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and round up for cafés if you like.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Alton, IL to Kansas City, MO by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Kansas City, MO, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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