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Cheap train tickets from Kansas City to Champaign

Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.

Trip Summary

There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Kansas City to Champaign. Travelling by train from Kansas City to Champaign usually takes 13 hours and 22 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 9 hours and 42 minutes.

Distance
344 mi (554 km)
Fastest train
9h 42m
Lowest price
CHF 90.80
Trains per day
3
Most frequent service
Amtrak
Train lines
1

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Kansas City to Champaign Train Schedule

Is it better to travel by bus or train from Kansas City to Champaign?

There are usually 3 daily bus trips available from Kansas City to Champaign.

Train
Bus
Avg. PriceCHF 185.26Avg. PriceCHF 70.10Cheaper
Daily Trips3Daily Trips3
Duration13h 22mDuration11hFaster
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There are several train options that can take you from Kansas City to Champaign:

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Kansas City to Champaign?

In the last month, train tickets from Kansas City to Champaign cost about CHF 119 when booked at the cheapest time. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 4 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 155.92 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Kansas City to Champaign by travel date

CHF 300CHF 200CHF 100NovNov

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Kansas City to Champaign will cost between CHF 82 and CHF 289. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Kansas City to Champaign by month

CHF 275CHF 220CHF 165CHF 110CHF 55JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Kansas City to Champaign often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only CHF 127. If you're thinking of travelling from Kansas City to Champaign during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 252 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

CHF 300CHF 240CHF 180CHF 120CHF 600

By booking your train trip from Kansas City to Champaign on Wanderu at least 4 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 155.92 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Kansas City to Champaign?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Kansas City to Champaign. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak313h 22mCHF 185.27

  • Amtrak is the largest passenger railway service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned washroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 3 Amtrak trains from Kansas City to Champaign every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 90.80.

    Amtrak train passing through mountains, offering affordable train tickets for scenic rail travel - WanderuModern Amtrak train at a station, providing cheap train travel and convenient Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak train speeding through scenic fall foliage, featuring cheap train tickets for long-distance trips - WanderuInterior view of a table in the dining car of an Amtrak train - WanderuInterior view of the dining car on an Amtrak train. Find affordable train tickets on - WanderuClean and spacious Amtrak bathroom, offering convenience and comfort for passengers during long train journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak power outlet for charging devices, providing convenience for passengers during affordable travel with cheap train tickets - WanderuComfortable Amtrak seats with ample legroom, ideal for relaxing during long journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuSpacious Amtrak seats with reclining options, offering comfort and convenience for passengers on affordable train travel - WanderuAmtrak viewing car seats with large windows, offering panoramic views and comfort for passengers enjoying scenic routes with affordable train tickets - Wanderu

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Kansas City to Champaign

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Kansas City to Champaign. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Champaign to Kansas City. If you're not set on travelling by train, you could always take the bus from Kansas City to Champaign for CHF 47.

Trains per day

3

Direct trains

0

The distance between Kansas City and Champaign is approximately 554 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 22 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 9 hours and 42 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

344

Distance (km)

554

The earliest train departs Kansas City at 7:03 a.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 4:05 p.m. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

7:03am

Last train

4:05pm

Trains from Kansas City to Champaign are the most crowded on Friday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Friday

Least crowded

Tuesday

City Information

Kansas City

KCY-0KCY-1KCY-2

Straddling two states, Kansas City is a vibrant modern city with plenty of activities for visitors. Those wishing to learn more about the city’s culture and history should not miss out on the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which offers artworks for both children and adults alike. If you seek something a bit quirkier and more interesting, the Arabia Steamboat Museum will certainly satisfy your curiosity. While you are in town, don’t forget to pay the Boulevard Brewing Company a visit. It is the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest and the source of pride from many local residents.

Kansas City’s signature barbecue is another source of pride, and you should take every occasion to try it out. Some noticeable venues with well-received barbecue dishes include Danny Edwards Boulevard BBQ and Arthur Bryant's Barbeque. If that’s not really your thing, The Farmhouse and Providence New American Kitchen are also worth checking out.

Kansas City’s principal bus station is located on Troost Ave, and it offers bus trips to Chicago, Wichita and Denver, among many other places. Kansas City Union Station provides Amtrak intercity train services, and the trains Missouri River Runner and Southwest Chief pass through the station on their way. Kansas City International Airport is located 15 miles northwest of Downtown.

Champaign

Champaign, IL - CHM-0Champaign, IL - CHM-1Champaign, IL - CHM-2

A significant hub for the Silicon Prairie, Champaign is a stunning city with many exciting landmarks to visit. The downtown area of Champaign is perhaps its busiest area, with over 40 different bars, art galleries, and boutique shops for you to enjoy. To enjoy arthouse films or independent productions, head over to the Art Theater, which also hosts special screenings. The campustown area near the University of Illinois hosts not only cheap eateries but also fine dining spots. The area tends to get crowded at night since students will be out on the street to enjoy the hopping nightlife.

As a busy college town, Champaign naturally has a very vibrant food scene with many excellent dining options. Radio Maria is a unique Spanish establishment with very colourful Spanish decorations and amazing tapas dishes. Those who want something more exotic and exciting could check out DESTIHL, which offers unique home-cooked dishes and great artisan beers.

The Illinois Terminal is Champaign's primary bus and train station, served by Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines, and Greyhound. From Champaign, you can continue your journey and visit some of the other top destinations in Illinois.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Kansas City?

Main departure station: Union Station - 30 W Pershing Rd

Union Station - 30 W Pershing Rd - KCYAMT-0Union Station - 30 W Pershing Rd - KCYAMT-1

Union Station in Kansas City is a grand, historic station dating back to 1914 with an imposing columned facade and intricately carved coffered ceilings. The station is truly a destination in itself, where you can explore a series of museums, a planetarium, a 3D theatre, and upscale dining options. Train service still runs through Union Station, though, and you can catch the Missouri River Runner to St. Louis or the Southwest Chief to Chicago or Los Angeles. Paid parking, washrooms, and a mothers’ nursing room can be found at the station. Just steps outside are some of the highlights of Kansas City, from Legoland Discovery Center to Penn Valley Park’s various memorials and museums.

All train stations in Kansas City:

  • Union Station - 30 W Pershing Rd

Where is the train station in Champaign?

Main arrival station: Illinois Term - 45 E University Ave

Illinois Term - 45 E University Ave - CHMAMT-0

The Illinois Terminal is located at 45 East University Avenue in Champaign. The transport centre opened in 1999, and now provides bus and train service in the Champaign-Urbana area. The terminal is served by Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound, Jefferson Lines, and local mass transit. Make sure to wait in the correct station building; Champaign’s old train station, dating to 1898, is just across the street. The Illinois Terminal offers short-term parking, fast food, and even meeting spaces and banquet halls. Thanks to the station’s convenient location, some of the best restaurants and bars in downtown Champaign are just a short walk away.

All train stations in Champaign:

  • Illinois Term - 45 E University Ave

Need a return trip from Champaign to Kansas City?

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