Ferndale
Ferndale
Kansas City
Kansas City
Driving

Ferndale to Kansas City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Ferndale to Kansas City covers approximately 700 miles. The most efficient route follows I-94 West to I-70 West. This drive typically takes 11 hours. You will pass through Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri.

Total Distance: 1,150 km driving, 950 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest, taking 11 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective method.
Compare Ferndale to Kansas City Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
11 hours
Avg Price
$110-$150 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
I-94 West to I-70 West.

Expect heavy traffic in Chicago; consider taking the I-294 bypass.

Travel Tips
  • Traffic
    Chicago traffic is the biggest hurdle; plan your departure to avoid rush hour.
  • Rest Stops
    Plan your stops in larger cities to ensure safe and well-lit facilities.
  • Weather
    Missouri can have severe weather; check forecasts before departing.
  • Parking
    Parking in the downtown area is available in garages and on the street.
  • Dining
    Kansas City is a barbecue capital; research the best spots before you arrive.
Safety Tips
  • Vehicle Check
    Ensure your tires and fluids are checked before a long-distance drive.
  • Emergency
    Keep a basic roadside emergency kit in your trunk at all times.
  • Night Driving
    Avoid driving through rural stretches of Missouri at night to minimize deer collision risks.
  • Awareness
    Stay in well-lit, populated areas when walking downtown at night.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to Kansas City?
    There is no direct train from Michigan; you would need to travel to Chicago first.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 11 hours under normal conditions.
  • What is the best time to visit?
    Spring and Fall offer the best weather.
  • Are there tolls?
    There are tolls on the Illinois tollway system.
  • Is Kansas City walkable?
    The downtown area is walkable, but you will need a car for the rest of the city.
Quick Info
  • From Ferndale, Michigan, United States
  • To Kansas City, Missouri, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

April to June or September to October for mild weather.

Things to Do in Kansas City
1
National WWI Museum
A world-class museum dedicated to the history of the first world war.
2
Country Club Plaza
An upscale shopping and dining district with beautiful Spanish-inspired architecture.
3
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
A renowned art museum with a diverse collection and a famous sculpture park.
4
Kansas City BBQ
Kansas City is famous for its barbecue; try a local spot for burnt ends.
Tags
Ferndale to Kansas City drive Michigan to Missouri road trip I-94 to I-70 route Kansas City travel guide driving to Kansas City from Detroit best route to Kansas City Ferndale travel Missouri travel tips