Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer in St. Louis when traveling by Amtrak.

How far is the drive?

It is approximately 810 kilometers.

What is the best BBQ?

Joe's Kansas City and Arthur Bryant's are top-rated choices.

Is the streetcar free?

Yes, the KC Streetcar is free to ride.

No, I-70 and I-55 are generally toll-free in this region.

Chicago

Kansas City

Train Driving

Chicago to Kansas City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Chicago to Kansas City covers roughly 800 kilometers across the Illinois and Missouri plains. You can take the Amtrak Missouri River Runner or drive via I-55 S and I-70 W. The train journey offers a scenic view of the Mississippi River valley. Driving allows for flexibility to stop in St. Louis along the way. This route is a classic Midwestern corridor connecting two major economic hubs.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 810 km; straight-line air distance is 650 km.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking about 7.5 hours compared to the 10-hour train journey.

Cheapest Way

Amtrak coach tickets are often cheaper than driving when factoring in gas and parking costs.

Compare Chicago to Kansas City Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	10 hours	7 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$70-$130	$90-$120 in fuel
Operator	Amtrak	Personal Vehicle
Route	Union Station Chicago to Union Station Kansas City	I-55 S to I-70 W
Tip	Book a coach seat early to get the lowest fare on the Lincoln Service to St. Louis, then transfer.	Stop in St. Louis for lunch to break up the long drive.

Travel Tips

Train Booking
Use the Amtrak app to track your train status in real-time.
St. Louis Stop
If driving, the Gateway Arch is a perfect quick stop right off I-55.
KC Transit
The KC Streetcar is free and runs through the heart of downtown.
Dining
Make reservations for popular BBQ spots, as they often have long lines.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in rural Missouri.