- Must visit
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
One of the nation’s leading museums on baseball’s Negro Leagues, with powerful exhibits on sport, civil rights, and Black history nearby in Missouri.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO
Showing times and prices for Aug 24
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$117
Fastest journey
5 h 40 m
Average duration
8 h 33 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
383 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave St. Louis, MO for Kansas City, MO on Mon, Aug 24, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 24 the direct trains cover the 383 km distance in an average of 8 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 40 m .
On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest trains will take 14 h 18 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.
311 Missouri River Runner8:10 AM5h40St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO1:50 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, MO$521One-way0 transfers- 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner3:11 PM5h40St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO8:51 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, MO$621One-way0 transfers
- 302 Lincoln Service · 3 Southwest Chief6:35 AM14h18St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO8:53 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, MO$2371One-way1 transfer
- 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner3:11 PM5h40St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO8:51 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, MO$621One-way0 transfers
- 311 Missouri River Runner8:10 AM5h40St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO1:50 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, MO$521One-way0 transfers
- 302 Lincoln Service · 3 Southwest Chief6:35 AM14h18St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO8:53 PMKansas City Station, Kansas City, MO$2371One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $33, and a flight costs an average of $95.
Distance: 237 miles (383 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$42 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price | $360 Average price | $53 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 22m Average total duration Fastest 4h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 57m Average total duration 5h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.3kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO is a train with an average price of $42.
This is compared to other travel options from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO:
A train is $14 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO costing on average $56.
A train is $318 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO costing on average $360.
The fastest way to travel from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 52m.
Other travel options to Kansas City, MO take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 44m.
Flight takes on average 5h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between St. Louis, MO and Kansas City, MO including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO 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 $42 compared to roughly $53 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $10. The journey takes 5h 44m versus 4h 28m 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO train times
The table below shows live departures for St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO trains for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 302 Lincoln Service · 3 Southwest Chief | 6:35 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 14h18 | 8:53 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO | 1 transfer | |
| 311 Missouri River Runner | 8:10 AM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 5h40 | 1:50 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 319 Lincoln Service Missouri River Runner | 3:11 PM St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO | 5h40 | 8:51 PM Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO?
The best time to book your train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO is 28 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO 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 St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO.
Trains
from $45Journey information
Overview: Train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO
USAUSA
Trains from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 but you can travel from only $34 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 16:41. The fastest train covers the 237 miles (383 km) distance in 5h 0m.
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 $34
Distance 237 miles (383 km) |
Average train duration 5h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 5h 0m |
First train 4:30 AM |
Last train 4:41 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $34
Train companies: Amtrak from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO trainsAmtrak trains will get you between St. Louis, MO and Kansas City, MO from $33. 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
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$34
Amtrak frequency
3 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 Kansas City, MO
Things to do in Kansas City, MO
Discover the best of Kansas City, MO — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kansas City, MO trip today.
- Must visit
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Large encyclopedic museum known for classic and contemporary works, special exhibitions, and the iconic Shuttlecocks on its grounds.
- Recommended
Wyandotte County Museum
Regional history museum in the 1911 city hall, covering Wyandotte County stories with exhibits on immigration, industry, and local life.
- Must visit
Strawberry Hill
Historic hilltop neighborhood known for ethnic heritage, churches, murals, and some of the best skyline views in Kansas City, Kansas.
- Recommended
Downtown Kansas City, Kansas
Downtown civic and entertainment district with galleries, venues, historic buildings, and regular events that showcase the city’s urban revival.
- Recommended
Wyandotte County Lake Park
Large nature park with wooded trails, lake access, and a bison enclosure, making it one of the region’s best outdoor escapes.
- Gluten-free
Kansas City Barbecue Ribs
Slow-smoked pork ribs with a peppery bark and tender bite. Kansas City barbecue is a regional icon known for long smoking and rich sauce options.
- Gluten-free
Burnt Ends
Burnt ends are caramelized cubes of smoked beef brisket point. They are a Kansas City specialty prized for smoky flavor, bark, and juicy texture.
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Slow-smoked pulled pork, often piled on a bun and topped with sauce. It is a staple at local barbecue joints across the Kansas City area.
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Legendary casual barbecue counter known for burnt ends, ribs, and brisket. Busy, no-frills, and one of the metro's most famous smokehouses.
El Pollo Rey
Historic Mexican-American institution in Kansas City, Kansas, celebrated for tacos, burritos, and comforting house specialties in a casual setting.
Acre
Refined modern restaurant in Strawberry Hill with seasonal American cooking, craft cocktails, and a polished neighborhood atmosphere.
U.S. Dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city breaks. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than larger metros, while car travel and limited transit can add costs for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars; $1-2 or rounding up is common.
FAQs: Trains from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO 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, MO, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34, while the average price is around $46.
The train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO takes 5h 0m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO is 237 miles (383 km).
The first train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO leaves at 4:30 AM.
The last train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO leaves at 4:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO.
Yes, there is a direct train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO.
The train station in St. Louis, MO that goes to Kansas City, MO is St. Louis Station, St. Louis, MO, which connects to Kansas City Station, Kansas City, MO.
The cheapest way to get from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO is by bus, with a cost of around $33.
The train journey from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, KS offers a scenic view of the Missouri River, rolling hills, and charming small towns, providing a pleasant and picturesque travel experience through the heart of Missouri.
A day trip from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, KS is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 0m. Trains run 3 times per day.
In Kansas City, KS, enjoy a day at Schlitterbahn Waterpark or catch a Kansas City T-Bones baseball game at CommunityAmerica Ballpark. Experience medieval-themed fun at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, or head to Cider Hill Family Orchard for apple picking. Visit the Moon Marble Company for marble-making demonstrations. Explore cultural heritage at the Strawberry Hill Museum, watch NASCAR events at Kansas Speedway, or spend time outdoors at Wyandotte County Lake Park. Shop and dine at Legends Outlets Kansas City, and learn about agriculture at the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame.
A 2 to 3-day stay in Kansas City, KS is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including the Kansas Speedway, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and the Legends Outlets.
Yes, you can take the train from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO.
Since neither St. Louis, MO nor Kansas City, MO 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 Kansas City, MO include Warrensburg, MO, Sedalia, MO, Topeka, KS, Lawrence, KS.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO 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, KS, travelers should stay alert in busy areas to avoid pickpocketing and petty theft, especially around popular attractions and transit hubs. It is important to be cautious of ride-sharing scams where drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Avoid unfamiliar neighborhoods at night and use official transportation services to ensure safety. Travelers should also watch for fake ticket sellers when purchasing event or transportation tickets and always buy from authorized sources.
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 St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO
Most St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO trains use the St. Louis Station to Kansas City Station station pair. Use this guide to compare St. Louis, MO and Kansas City, MO train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in St. Louis
Arrival train stations in Kansas City
Which St. Louis, MO station do trains to Kansas City, MO leave from?
Trains from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO leave from St. Louis Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from St. Louis, MO city centre at 430 S 15th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA.
St. Louis Station430 S 15th St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to St. Louis Station from St. Louis city centre
TrainMlb, Mlr · 3m · $4 · every ~14 min
St. Louis Station train station facilities and services
St. Louis 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: Landry's Seafood House, The Station Grille
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St. Louis Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at St. Louis Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St. Louis Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at St. Louis Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St. Louis Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, Courtyard St. Louis Downtown West, Drury Inn St. Louis at Union Station.
Which Kansas City, MO station do trains from St. Louis, MO arrive at?
Trains from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO most often arrive at Kansas City Station. Some services arrive at Independence Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Kansas City, MO arrival station.
Kansas City Station30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA+1 816-460-2020
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 train connections from St. Louis, MO
More options for your journey from St. Louis, MO to Kansas City, MO
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kansas City, MO and St. Louis, MO
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