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Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Kansas City
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Chicago to Kansas City. Traveling by train from Chicago to Kansas City usually takes 12 hours and 44 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 7 hours and 23 minutes.
- Distance
- 412 mi (664 km)
- Fastest train
- 7h 23m
- Lowest price
- RON 270.65
- Trains per day
- 2
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Kansas City Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Kansas City?
There are usually 11 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Kansas City.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceRON 565.89 | Avg. PriceRON 456.85Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips5 | Daily Trips11 |
Duration | Duration12h 44mFaster | Duration15h 36m |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Kansas City (Based on 14 ratings and reviews)
5.0
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There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Kansas City:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Kansas City?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Kansas City was RON 459.19. 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 26 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around RON 306.29 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Kansas City by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Kansas City will cost between RON 372 and RON 541. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Kansas City by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Kansas City often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in October when the average ticket price is only RON 477. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Kansas City during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of RON 656 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Kansas City on Wanderu at least 26 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 306.29 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Kansas City?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Kansas City. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 4 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 14h 9m | RON 528.07 |
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 7h 23m | RON 708.36 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad 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 restroom, 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 4 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Kansas City every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from RON 270.65.
The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Chicago to Kansas City in about 7 hours and 23 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to Kansas City
There are 5 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Kansas City. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice. You can also take a train for your return trip from Kansas City to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Kansas City for RON 257.
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
2
The distance between Chicago and Kansas City is approximately 412 miles, or 664 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 12 hours and 44 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 7 hours and 23 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)
412
Distance (km)
664
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:15am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:05pm. 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
7:15am
Last train
8:05pm
Trains from Chicago to Kansas City are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 traveling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Wednesday
City Information
Chicago
Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.
You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.
Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
Kansas City
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 Arts, 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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Main departure station: Union Station
The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.
All train stations in Chicago:
- Union Station
Where is the train station in Kansas City?
Main arrival station: Union Station - 30 W Pershing Rd
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 theater, 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, restrooms, 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
Need a return trip from Kansas City to Chicago?
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