Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL train with Amtrak

Sun, Jun 21
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 6h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $55, and a train costs an average of $93.

Distance: 305 miles (491 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$93

Average price

$55

Average price

Cheapest

$70

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 10m

Average total duration

7h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 22m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL is a bus with an average price of $55 (€45).

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

A bus is $38 (€31) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL costing on average $93 (€76).

The fastest way to travel from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL is by bus with an average journey time of 6h 45m.

Other travel options to Carbondale, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 40m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Kansas City, MO and Carbondale, IL including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL 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 $93 (€76) compared to roughly $70 (€57) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-23.02 (€-18.84). The journey takes 7h 40m versus 5h 22m 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 prices and tickets Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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
Jun 21
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $93 (€76) but you can travel from only $55 (€45) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:16, the last at 16:24. The fastest train covers the 305 miles (491 km) distance in 16h 20m.

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
305 miles (491 km)
Average train duration
7h 40m
Cheapest ticket price
$93 (€76)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
16h 20m
First train
1:16 AM
Last train
4:24 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Kansas City, MO and Carbondale, IL 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
16h 20m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€76)
Amtrak frequency
2 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 Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $93 (€76), while the average price is around $93 (€76).
The train from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL takes 16h 20m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL leaves at 1:16 AM.
The distance by train from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL is 305 miles (491 km).
The last train from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL leaves at 4:24 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL.
There is no direct train service currently available from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL.
The train station in Kansas City, MO that goes to Carbondale, IL is Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS, which connects to Carbondale station, Carbondale, IL.
The cheapest way to get from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $55 (€45).
The train journey from Kansas City, KS to Carbondale, IL offers scenic views of the Midwest's rolling landscapes, including picturesque farmland and small towns, providing a peaceful and visually pleasant experience.
A day trip from Kansas City, KS to Carbondale, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 16h 20m and the distance is 305 miles (491 km). The frequency of this trip is 3 times per day by train.
For a fulfilling visit to Carbondale, IL, two to three days are usually sufficient to explore local attractions such as the Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois University campus, and nearby wineries.
Yes, you can take the train from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL.
Since neither Kansas City, MO nor Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL include Effingham, IL, Mattoon, IL, Centralia, IL.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL, travelers should remain aware of petty theft and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in parking areas near popular venues like Southern Illinois University. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Scams are generally low, but travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodations and verify legitimacy before committing. Staying informed about local news and following standard travel safety practices ensures a secure visit.
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 Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL

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

Departure train stations in Kansas City
Arrival train stations in Carbondale

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

Trains from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL leave from Kansas City Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Kansas City, MO city centre at 30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
Kansas City Station30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA+1 816-460-2020WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Kansas City Station from Kansas City city centre

Kansas City Station is 1 km from Kansas City city centre. Public transport options include:

BusSeveral lines available
StreetcarKC Streetcar

Kansas City Station train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Pierpont's at Union Station, Harvey's at Union Station

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Kansas City Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Kansas City Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Kansas City Station: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center, Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center, Hotel Kansas City.

More options for your journey from Kansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Carbondale, ILKansas City, MO to Carbondale, IL train

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