Cheap train tickets from Kansas City to Chicago
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 5 daily train trips available from Kansas City to Chicago. Traveling by train from Kansas City to Chicago usually takes 17 hours and 41 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 8 hours and 16 minutes.
| Distance | 412 mi (664 km) |
| Fastest train | 8h 16m |
| Lowest price | $59.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Millions of travelers trust Wanderu every year to get:
Lowest Prices
We find the cheapest bus & train tickets, so you can wander for less.
Best Travel Options
We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most bus & train options.
Quick & Easy Booking
Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.
Fast Customer Support
We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.
See what travelers are saying about Wanderu:
Download our free app!
Find, compare & book buses and trains on the go with the Wanderu app.
4.8 Rating
5k Reviews
4.5 Rating
4.8k Reviews
Kansas City to Chicago Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Kansas City to Chicago?
There are usually 11 daily bus trips available from Kansas City to Chicago.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$134.93 | Avg. Price$123.85Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips5 | Daily Trips11 |
Duration | Duration17h 41m | Duration15h 13mFaster |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Kansas City to Chicago (Based on 26 ratings and reviews)
4.0
5.0
4.0
5.0
4.0
4.0
4.0
4.0
5.0
4.0
5.0
5.0
4.0
5.0
4.0
Kansas City to Chicago Route Map
There are several train options that can take you from Kansas City to Chicago:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Kansas City to Chicago?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Kansas City to Chicago was $104.39. 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 28 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $80.77 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Kansas City to Chicago by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Kansas City to Chicago will cost between $83 and $144. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Kansas City to Chicago by month
Ticket prices for the train from Kansas City to Chicago often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $106. If you're thinking of traveling from Kansas City to Chicago during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $142 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 Kansas City to Chicago on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time, you can save about $80.77 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Kansas City to Chicago?
There are multiple trains that travel from Kansas City to Chicago, including Amtrak, Amtrak Southwest Chief. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 20h 9m | $121.64 |
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 8h 16m | $185.85 |
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 Kansas City to Chicago every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $59.
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 Kansas City to Chicago in about 8 hours and 16 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 Kansas City to Chicago
There are 5 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Chicago. 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 Chicago to Kansas City. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Kansas City to Chicago for $61.
TRIPS PER DAY
5
DIRECT TRIPS
2
The distance between Kansas City and Chicago is approximately 412 miles, or 664 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 17 hours and 41 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 8 hours and 16 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 Kansas City at 7:13am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:05pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
7:13am
LATEST TRAIN
4:05pm
Trains from Kansas City to Chicago are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Saturday
LEAST CROWDED
Monday
City Information
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.
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.
Station Information
Where does the train leave from in Kansas City?
Main departure 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
Where does the train arrive in Chicago?
Main arrival 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
Need a return trip from Chicago to Kansas City?
Search Train TicketsPlan your next adventure
More trains from Kansas City
- Kansas City to Oklahoma City Train$88+
- Kansas City to Portland Train$373+
- Kansas City to Seattle Train$402+
- Kansas City to Denver Train$281+
- Kansas City to St Louis Train$41+
- Kansas City to Grand Canyon Village Train
- Kansas City to Las Vegas Train$204+
- Kansas City to Hermann Train$36+
- Kansas City to Phoenix Train$326+
- Kansas City, MO to Las Vegas, NM Train$98+
- Kansas City to Omaha Train$201+
- Kansas City to Dallas Train$162+
- Kansas City to Orlando Train$418+
- Kansas City to New Orleans Train$223+
- Kansas City to Los Angeles Train$181+
- Kansas City to Colorado Springs Train
- Kansas City to Nashville Train$229+
- Kansas City to New York Train$284+
Continue by train from Chicago
Check out these popular routes
- New York to Boston Train$123+
- Boston to New York Train$108+
- Montreal to Toronto Train$67+
- Washington, DC to New York Train$110+
- Providence to New York Train$110+
- Toronto to Montreal Train$78+
- New York to Philadelphia Train$57+
- Montreal to Québec City Train$48+
- Boston to New Rochelle Train$76+
- Philadelphia to Washington, DC Train$64+
- Philadelphia to New York Train$53+
- Washington, DC to New Rochelle Train$95+
- New York to Providence Train$107+
- New York to Washington, DC Train$116+
- Baltimore to New York Train$95+
- New York to Baltimore Train$99+
- Seattle to New York Train$600+
- Orlando to Miami Train$43+
Wanderu is the simplest way to book bus and train travel.
With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu's simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.