Chicago, IL to Kansas City train with Amtrak

Sat, Aug 29
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Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29

Cheapest price on Aug 29

€180

Average ticket price on Aug 29

€180

Fastest journey on Aug 29

7 h 23 m

Average journey duration on Aug 29

9 h 12 m

Trains on Aug 29

2

Distance

663 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Kansas City 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 will cost around €180 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €180.

Fast trains

On Sat, Aug 29, we found 2 trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, including 2 direct services.

On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 663 km distance in an average of 9 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 23 m .

On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 11 h 1 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.

  • Amtrak
    9:50 AM11h01
    Chicago, IL
    8:51 PMKansas City
    1801One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    2:25 PM7h23
    Chicago, IL
    9:48 PMKansas City
    1801One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Kansas City

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Kansas City among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €107 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €107, while a flight costs an average of €688.

Distance: 411 miles (663 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

€146

Average price

€107

Average price

Cheapest

€688

Average price

€85

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 57m

Average total duration

9h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

13h 2m

Average total duration

12h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 43m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

7h 24m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Kansas City is a bus with an average price of €107.

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Kansas City:

A bus is €38 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City costing on average €146.

A bus is €581 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Kansas City costing on average €688.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Kansas City is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 43m.

Other travel options to Kansas City take longer:

Train takes on average 9h 27m.

Bus takes on average 12h 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Kansas City 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 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 €146 compared to roughly €85 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-60.13. The journey takes 9h 27m versus 7h 24m 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.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Kansas City train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Kansas City trains for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
13h36
8:51 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO1 transfer
Amtrak301 Lincoln Service · 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
12h56
8:11 PM Independence Station, Independence, MO1 transfer
Amtrak381 Carl Sandburg · 3 Southwest Chief7:40 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
13h13
8:53 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO1 transfer
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner9:50 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
11h01
8:51 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO0 transfersDirect
Amtrak319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner9:50 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
10h21
8:11 PM Independence Station, Independence, MO0 transfersDirect
Amtrak3 Southwest Chief1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
7h23
8:53 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO0 transfersDirect
Amtrak59 City Of New Orleans · 8358 AMTRAK · 311 Missouri River Runner6:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
19h45
1:50 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO2 transfers
Amtrak59 City Of New Orleans · 8358 AMTRAK · 311 Missouri River Runner6:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
19h15
1:20 PM Independence Station, Independence, MO2 transfers
Saturday, August 29
Amtrak9:50 AM Chicago, IL
11h01
8:51 PM Kansas City0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Kansas City 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.

Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City run on average 6 times per day, taking around 9h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €53 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:01, the last at 20:05. The fastest train covers the 411 miles (663 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
Distance
411 miles (663 km)
Average train duration
9h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
€53
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
7h 23m
First train
7:01 AM
Last train
8:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
2 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

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Kansas City trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Kansas City from €55. 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
€53
Amtrak frequency
6 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

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Kansas City 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, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Kansas City can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €53, while the average price is around €146.
The train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City takes 7h 23m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City is 411 miles (663 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City leaves at 7:01 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City leaves at 8:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Kansas City.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Kansas City.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Kansas City is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Kansas City is by bus, with a cost of around €55.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Kansas City.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Kansas City 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Kansas City 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, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in busy areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi or rideshare drivers and counterfeit tickets for events or attractions. Staying in well-lit, populated areas and using official transportation services helps reduce risk.
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

Most Chicago, IL to Kansas City trains use the Union Station to Kansas City Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Kansas City train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Kansas City

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Kansas City leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Kansas City leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre

Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus28, 151 · 7m · €3 · every ~13 min

Union Station train station facilities and services

Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Kansas City

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USAChicago, IL to Kansas City train

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