- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
6 h 13 m
Average duration
7 h 35 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
432 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kirkwood, 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 Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Of the 2 trains that leave Kirkwood, MO for Chicago, IL on Sat, Aug 01, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 432 km distance in an average of 7 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 13 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 8 h 56 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.




Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $126.
Distance: 268 miles (432 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$89 Average price | $62 Average price Cheapest | $380 Average price | $62 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 12m Average total duration 5h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration 6h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $27 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $89 (€72).
A bus is $318 (€260) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL costing on average $380 (€310).
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 42m.
Bus takes on average 6h 10m.
Tickets start at around $89 (€72) compared to roughly $62 (€51) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-26.36 (€-21.50). The journey takes 5h 42m versus 4h 25m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner · 306 Lincoln Service | 1:47 PM Kirkwood Station, Kirkwood, MO | 8h56 | 10:43 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
318 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 1:47 PM Kirkwood Station, Kirkwood, MO | 6h13 | 8:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
316 Missouri River Runner · 8359 AMTRAK · 58 City Of New Orleans | 9:13 PM Kirkwood Station, Kirkwood, MO | 34h02 | 7:15 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:15, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 268 miles (432 km) distance in 5h 39m.
Distance 268 miles (432 km) |
Average train duration 5h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 39m |
First train 7:15 AM |
Last train 9:13 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 70 days |
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
The train connection between Kirkwood, MO and Chicago, IL is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Chicago. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their journey while enjoying amenities such as Wi-Fi and dining options on board. Whether you're heading to Chicago for business or leisure, taking the train provides a stress-free travel experience.
The train connection from Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL takes approximately 6 hours and 13 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day with no transfers required. Passengers will depart from Kirkwood Station, MO and arrive at Union Station, IL.
The first daily train journey departs from Kirkwood at 18:47 and arrives in Chicago at 19:47. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for evening travel between these two cities.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Kirkwood to Chicago is $34 (30.6€). The average ticket price tends to be around $55 (49.5€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in the Midwest.
Welcome to the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, which was completed in 1973 and held the title of the tallest building in the world for nearly 25 years. This iconic skyscraper is significant not only for its impressive height but also for its innovative design that has become a symbol of Chicago's architectural prowess. One unique feature you won't want to miss is The Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can step out onto glass boxes extending four feet outside of the building—offering breathtaking views from over a thousand feet above ground.
Next up is Millennium Park, an urban oasis opened in 2004 that transformed what was once a neglected area into one of Chicago’s most beloved public spaces. Its significance lies in how it brings together art, music, and nature while serving as a hub for community events and cultural activities throughout the year. Be sure to check out Cloud Gate—affectionately nicknamed "The Bean"—with its stunning reflective surface that captures both cityscapes and visitors alike; it's truly an Instagram-worthy spot!
Finally, we arrive at Navy Pier—a historic landmark originally built in 1916 as part of Chicago's waterfront development project aimed at boosting trade during World War I. Today it stands as one of Illinois' top tourist destinations with attractions ranging from amusement rides to theaters and restaurants along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Don’t forget to take a ride on The Centennial Wheel; standing at over 196 feet tall, this Ferris wheel offers spectacular panoramic views across both land and water!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kirkwood, 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.

Most Kirkwood, MO to Chicago, IL trains use the Kirkwood Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Kirkwood, MO and Chicago, IL train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Kirkwood Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, and Accessibility.
Food and drink options are available at Kirkwood Station.
Available at Kirkwood Station: Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Kirkwood Station.
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need