The distance from Gainesville, MO to New York City is 2,000 kilometers. The most practical way to travel is to drive to Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) and fly to LaGuardia (LGA) or JFK. The trip takes about 5 hours with a connection. Driving would take over 20 hours.
Total Distance: 2,000 km driving, 1,800 km air distance.
Look for flights connecting through Charlotte or Chicago.
May to June or September to October for mild weather.