- Must visit
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Major art museum known for its broad collection, sculpture park, and iconic Shuttlecocks. One of the city’s signature cultural attractions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO
Showing times and prices for May 25
Cheapest price
$125
Average price
$215
Fastest journey
7 h 23 m
Average duration
13 h 11 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
661 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO will cost around $215 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $125.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Kansas City, MO on Mon, May 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 25 the direct trains cover the 661 km distance in an average of 13 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 23 m .
On Mon, May 25 the slowest trains will take 19 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner9:50 AM11h01Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:51 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$1251One-way0 transfers- 3 Southwest Chief2:25 PM7h23Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:48 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$2081One-way0 transfers
- 381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief7:40 AM14h08Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:48 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$2101One-way1 transfer
- 301 Lincoln Service · 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner7:15 AM13h36Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:51 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$2281One-way1 transfer
- 59 City Of New Orleans · 8358 AMTRAK · 311 Missouri River Runner6:05 PM19h45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:50 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$3031One-way2 transfers
- 3 Southwest Chief2:25 PM7h23Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:48 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$2081One-way0 transfers
- 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner9:50 AM11h01Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:51 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$1251One-way0 transfers
- 301 Lincoln Service · 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner7:15 AM13h36Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:51 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$2281One-way1 transfer
- 381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief7:40 AM14h08Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:48 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$2101One-way1 transfer
- 59 City Of New Orleans · 8358 AMTRAK · 311 Missouri River Runner6:05 PM19h45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1:50 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, KS$3031One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $64. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $64, and a flight costs an average of $143.
Distance: 410 miles (661 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$98 Average price Cheapest | $125 Average price | $398 Average price | $104 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 36m Average total duration 9h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 42m Average total duration 11h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 41m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 2.0 - 4.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO is a train with an average price of $98 (€79).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO:
A train is $27 (€22) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO costing on average $125 (€101).
A train is $300 (€243) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO costing on average $398 (€322).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 41m.
Other travel options to Kansas City, MO take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 6m.
Bus takes on average 11h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Kansas City, MO including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO trains for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Southwest Chief | 2:25 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 7h23 | 9:48 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 59 City Of New Orleans · 8358 AMTRAK · 311 Missouri River Runner | 6:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 19h45 | 1:50 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS | 2 transfers | |
| Monday, May 25 | |||||
| 301 Lincoln Service · 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 13h36 | 8:51 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS | 1 transfer | |
| 381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief | 7:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 14h08 | 9:48 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS | 1 transfer | |
| 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 9:50 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 11h01 | 8:51 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
Sun
May 24
May 24
Mon
May 25
May 25
Tue
May 26
May 26
Wed
May 27
May 27
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO?
The best time to book your train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO.
Trains
from $92Buses
from $98Flights
from $202Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€52) but you can travel from only $55 (€45) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:01, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 410 miles (661 km) distance in 7h 23m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $55 (€45)
Distance 410 miles (661 km) |
Average train duration 9h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€52) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 7h 23m |
First train 7:01 AM |
Last train 10:17 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $55 (€45)
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Kansas City, MO from $55 (€45). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 23m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€52)
Amtrak frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Kansas City
Things to do in Kansas City
Discover the best of Kansas City — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kansas City trip today.
- Must visit
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Leading museum on the First World War with immersive exhibits and a strong national profile. A top history stop in Kansas City.
- Must visit
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Widely admired museum documenting the history and legacy of Negro Leagues baseball. A moving and important cultural institution.
- Must visit
Country Club Plaza
Historic outdoor shopping and walking district with Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains, and seasonal lights. One of the city’s best-known areas.
- Must visit
18th & Vine Historic Jazz District
Historic neighborhood central to Kansas City jazz and Black history. A culturally significant area with museums and live-music heritage.
- Recommended
River Market
Lively downtown neighborhood known for its market, streetcar access, and historic warehouses. Great for walking and people-watching.
- Gluten-free
Kansas City-Style Barbecue Ribs
Slow-smoked pork ribs coated with a thick, sweet-tangy tomato and molasses-based sauce. They are one of the city’s signature barbecue staples.
- Gluten-free
Burnt Ends
Cubed, smoky ends of brisket point, traditionally caramelized and served with sauce. This is one of Kansas City’s most iconic barbecue specialties.
- Gluten-free
Barbecue Brisket
Beef brisket smoked low and slow until tender, then sliced thick or chopped. Kansas City is known for rich bark, smoke, and sauce-forward serving styles.
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Legendary casual barbecue spot famous for burnt ends, Z-Man sandwiches, and expertly smoked meats in an iconic former gas station setting.
The Antler Room
Acclaimed contemporary restaurant known for refined small plates, seasonal cooking, and a stylish neighborhood atmosphere beyond the barbecue scene.
Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House
Polished, well-established barbecue restaurant with a broader menu, strong sides, and a more upscale atmosphere than many smokehouses.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Barbecue, casual dining, and coffee are fairly priced, while hotels and fine dining vary by season and area.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at full-service restaurants; 15-20% in bars. Round up or add 10-15% for taxis. USD 2-5 for hotel staff is customary.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, 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.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€52), while the average price is around $98 (€79).
The train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO takes 7h 23m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO is 410 miles (661 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO leaves at 7:01 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO leaves at 10:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Kansas City, MO is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO is by bus, with a cost of around $55 (€45).
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, KS offers scenic views of the Midwest's rolling plains, charming small towns, and stretches of farmland, providing a picturesque glimpse of America's heartland.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, KS is not feasible as the travel duration is 7h 23m. There are 4 trips per day available for trains. The one-way distance is 410 miles (661 km).
In Kansas City, KS, enjoy a day at Schlitterbahn Waterpark or catch a Kansas City T-Bones baseball game at CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Experience medieval-themed fun at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, or head to Cider Hill Family Orchard for apple picking. Visit the Moon Marble Company for marble-making demonstrations. Explore cultural heritage at the Strawberry Hill Museum, watch NASCAR events at Kansas Speedway, or spend time outdoors at Wyandotte County Lake Park. Shop and dine at Legends Outlets Kansas City, and learn about agriculture at the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame.
A 2 to 3-day stay in Kansas City, KS is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Kansas Speedway, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and the Legends Outlets.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Kansas City, MO are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Kansas City, MO include Warrensburg, MO, Sedalia, MO, Topeka, KS, Lawrence, KS.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Kansas City, KS, travelers should stay alert in busy areas to avoid pickpocketing and petty theft, especially around popular attractions and transit hubs. It is important to be cautious of ride-sharing scams where drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Avoid unfamiliar neighborhoods at night and use official transportation services to ensure safety. Travelers should also watch for fake ticket sellers when purchasing event or transportation tickets and always buy from authorized sources.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO
Chicago
Kansas City
The major train station for departures in Chicago is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Chicago to Kansas City.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 km
Number of platforms
24Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
Dining
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
Public transit options for Union Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
The major train station for arrivals in Kansas City is Kansas City Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kansas City Station for your journey to Kansas City from Chicago.
Kansas City Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Pershing Road.
Dining
- Pierpont's at Union Station
- Harvey's at Union Station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center
- Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center
- Hotel Kansas City
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for trains to various destinations
- Hall 2: ticketing and waiting area
- Hall 3: access to restaurants and shops
Public transit options for Kansas City Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Streetcar: KC Streetcar
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kansas City, MO and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Kansas City, MO
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
