Flight
Driving
Alton to Los Angeles
Updated: 28 May 2026
Traveling from Alton, Missouri to Los Angeles covers approximately 1,850 miles. The most practical route involves driving to Springfield-Branson National Airport for a flight. Alternatively, you can drive via US-60 to I-44, eventually connecting to I-40 West. This cross-country journey traverses the Ozarks and the Mojave Desert. Expect a multi-day drive or a 7-hour total travel time by air.
Total Distance: Driving distance 2,977 km, straight-line air distance 2,550 km.
Fastest Way
Flying from Springfield (SGF) to Los Angeles (LAX) takes approximately 7 hours including layovers.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more, costing roughly $500 in fuel.
Compare Alton to Los Angeles Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 7 hours | 28 hours |
| Avg Price | $250 - $500 | $400 - $600 in fuel |
| Operator | American Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | SGF to LAX via DFW or PHX. | US-60 to I-44 W, then I-40 W through Oklahoma and Arizona. |
| Tip | Book your flight from Springfield-Branson National Airport to save time. | Check your tire pressure before crossing the high-altitude sections of New Mexico. |
Travel Tips
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Airport ChoiceAlways use Springfield-Branson National Airport for the most reliable connections.
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Time ZoneRemember you will cross two time zones moving from Central to Pacific time.
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HydrationCarry extra water if driving through the Mojave Desert section of I-40.
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TollsKeep a digital toll pass handy for express lanes in the Los Angeles metro area.
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ParkingUse public transit like the Metro Rail to avoid expensive downtown parking fees.
Safety Tips
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Desert DrivingEnsure your cooling system is serviced before crossing the desert.
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Traffic AwarenessAvoid driving on the I-405 during rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM.
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Emergency KitKeep a roadside emergency kit with flares and a first aid box in your trunk.
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Personal SecurityStay in well-lit areas when visiting downtown Los Angeles at night.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train from Alton to LA?No, you must drive to a major hub like St. Louis to catch the Texas Eagle.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes approximately 28 hours of pure road time.
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What is the best airport?Springfield-Branson National Airport is the closest major hub.
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Are there tolls on I-40?Most of I-40 is toll-free, but some urban bypasses may have fees.
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Can I take a bus?Yes, Greyhound operates routes, but it takes over 45 hours.
Quick Info
- From Alton, Missouri, United States
- To Los Angeles, California, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring or Autumn to avoid extreme heat in the Mojave Desert and winter storms in the Rockies.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
1
Santa Monica Pier
Walk the historic wooden pier featuring an amusement park and aquarium. It marks the official end of Route 66.
2
Griffith Observatory
View the Hollywood Sign and the entire Los Angeles basin from this iconic Art Deco landmark. Admission to the grounds is free.
3
The Getty Center
Explore world-class art collections and stunning architecture perched on a hill. The tram ride up is a unique experience.
4
Grand Central Market
Sample diverse culinary offerings in this historic downtown food hall. It has been operating since the early twentieth century.
Tags
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