Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Mon, Aug 03
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

$96

Average price

$155

Fastest journey

8 h 16 m

Average duration

17 h 29 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

661 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL will cost around $155 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $96.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Kansas City, MO for Chicago, IL on Mon, Aug 03, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 03 the direct trains cover the 661 km distance in an average of 17 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 16 m .

On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 1 d 15 h 10 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.

  • Amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
    8:40 AM11h20
    Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
    8:00 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $961One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 306 Lincoln Service
    8:40 AM14h03
    Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
    10:43 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $991One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak316 Missouri River Runner · 8359 AMTRAK · 58 City Of New Orleans
    4:05 PM39h10
    Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
    7:15 AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $1751One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg
    7:13 AM14h38
    Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
    9:51 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $2001One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak4 Southwest Chief
    7:13 AM8h16
    Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
    3:29 PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    $2081One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

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

USAUSA
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Trains from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 8h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€52) if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:01, the last at 21:05. The fastest train covers the 410 miles (661 km) distance in 7h 41m.

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
410 miles (661 km)
Average train duration
8h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
$64 (€52)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
7h 41m
First train
7:01 AM
Last train
9:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
21 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

Live departures

Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL trains for today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak4 Southwest Chief7:13 AM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
8h16
3:29 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg7:13 AM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
14h38
9:51 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
Amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 306 Lincoln Service8:40 AM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
14h03
10:43 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
Amtrak316 Missouri River Runner · 8359 AMTRAK · 58 City Of New Orleans4:05 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO
39h10
7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL?

The best time to book your train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL 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 Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL.

Train companies: Amtrak from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Kansas City, MO and Chicago, IL from $64 (€52). 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 41m
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 Chicago, IL

Things to do in Chicago, IL

Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.

  • Must visit

Art Institute of Chicago

World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.

  • Must visit

Field Museum

Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science and Industry

Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€52), while the average price is around $121 (€98).
The train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL takes 7h 41m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 7:01 AM.
The distance by train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL is 410 miles (661 km).
The last train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL.
The train station in Kansas City, MO that goes to Chicago, IL is Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The train journey from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL offers scenic views of the Midwest's rolling plains and farmland, as well as small towns and rivers, making it a pleasant and picturesque experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL.
Popular day trips by train from Chicago, IL include Milwaukee, WI, South Bend, IN, New Buffalo, MI, Racine, WI, Elkhart, IN.
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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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 Chicago, IL

Most Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL trains use the Kansas City Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Kansas City, MO and Chicago, 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 Chicago

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

Trains from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, 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.

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and Kansas City, MO

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

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