Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Sat, Nov 29
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Nov 29

Cheapest price

$160

Average price

$293

Fastest journey

7 h 41 m

Average duration

13 h 1 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 $293 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $160.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Kansas City, MO for Chicago, IL on Sat, Nov 29, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Nov 29 the direct trains cover the 661 km distance in an average of 13 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 41 m .

On Sat, Nov 29 the slowest trains will take 17 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.

Amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg
07:01AM14h50
Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
09:51PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$1601One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner
08:40AM11h20
Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
08:00PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$2081One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 306 Lincoln Service
08:40AM14h03
Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
10:43PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$2211One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak316 Missouri River Runner · 8359 AMTRAK · 58 City Of New Orleans
04:05PM17h10
Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
09:15AMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$2331One-way
2 transfers
Amtrak4 Southwest Chief
07:01AM7h41
Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
02:42PMChicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
$6421One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 39m. 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 bus costs an average of €42, and a flight costs an average of €103.

Distance: 410 miles (661 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€101

Average price

€100

Average price

Cheapest

€300

Average price

8h 56m

Average total duration

8h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 57m

Average total duration

11h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 39m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.7 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

2.0 - 4.0kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

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, Friday, November 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:16 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 306 Lincoln Service2:40 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
14h03
4:43 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner2:40 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
11h20
2:00 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
Saturday, November 29
amtrak4 Southwest Chief1:01 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
7h41
8:42 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect
amtrak4 Southwest Chief · 382 Carl Sandburg1:01 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS
14h50
3:51 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL 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
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05

Why should you book Kansas City to Chicago trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Kansas City to Chicago. Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kansas City to Chicago.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Amtrak tickets can only be bought on Omio or Amtrak's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Amtrak tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Kansas City to Chicago.

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.

Journey information

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

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Icon of train

Trains from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 (€57) but you can travel from only $52 (€42) by bus.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $52 (€42)
Distance
410 miles (661 km)
Average train duration
8h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$70 (€57)
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
7h 41m
First train
07:01
Last train
21:05
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 $52 (€42)

Train companies: Amtrak from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Kansas City, MO and Chicago, IL from $52 (€42). 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
$76 (€62)
Amtrak frequency
1 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 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
A day trip from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 41m and covers 410 miles (661 km). However, there are 4 train trips per day available between these cities.
The distance by train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL is 410 miles (661 km).
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
The train station in Kansas City, MO that goes to Chicago, IL is Kansas City Station, Kansas City, KS, 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.
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
There is no high speed train available from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL.
The train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL takes 7h 41m and runs 4 per day.
Train ticket prices from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70 (€57), while the average price is around $125 (€101).
The cheapest way to get from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL is by bus, with a cost of around $52 (€42).
The last train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 9:05 PM.
The first train from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL leaves at 7:01 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL.
Yes, you can take the train 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL

Kansas City
Chicago
The major train station for departures 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 trip from Kansas City to Chicago.
Kansas City StationWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Pershing Road.
Dining
Dining
  • Pierpont's at Union Station
  • Harvey's at Union Station
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center
  • Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center
  • Hotel Kansas City
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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 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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