Is there a train to LA?

Yes, the Amtrak Southwest Chief runs from Kansas City to LA, but you must get to KC first.

What is the best airport?

LAX is the largest, but Burbank (BUR) is much more convenient for Hollywood and the Valley.

How long is the drive?

It takes about 28 hours of driving time, usually split over three days.

Yes, Los Angeles is a car-centric city and public transit does not cover all areas.

Yes, the route is well-traveled, but be prepared for desert conditions and mountain passes.

O'Fallon

Los Angeles

Flight Driving

O'Fallon to Los Angeles

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trip from O'Fallon to Los Angeles covers roughly 1,850 miles. You can fly from St. Louis Lambert (STL) to Los Angeles International (LAX) in about 4 hours. Driving involves taking I-70 West to I-15 South, crossing the Rockies and the Mojave Desert. This is a major cross-country journey that requires careful planning for fuel and rest stops. Los Angeles offers a massive urban landscape with diverse neighborhoods and coastal attractions.

Total Distance: 2,977 km driving, 2,500 km air distance.

Fastest Way

A direct flight from STL to LAX takes 4 hours 15 minutes, saving you over a full day of travel.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often the most cost-effective when factoring in the cost of fuel, hotels, and food for a multi-day drive.

Compare O'Fallon to Los Angeles Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 15 mins	28 hours
Avg Price	$180 - $500	$350 - $600 in fuel
Operator	American Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	STL to LAX	I-70 W to I-15 S
Tip	Check for flights into Burbank (BUR) for a less stressful airport experience than LAX.	Ensure your vehicle is ready for high-speed desert driving and extreme heat.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Avoid driving on LA freeways during rush hours (7-10 AM and 3-7 PM) to save hours of time.
Public Transit
Use the Metro Rail system to navigate between major hubs like Downtown, Hollywood, and Santa Monica.
Parking
Parking in LA is expensive and scarce; use apps like SpotHero to find and book spots in advance.
Coastal Weather
The coast is often cooler than inland areas; bring layers even in the summer.
Reservations
Book popular restaurants and attractions weeks in advance to ensure availability.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Security
Never leave valuables in your car, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood or Venice Beach.
Emergency
Keep a list of local emergency numbers and a physical map in your car for remote desert stretches.
Sun Exposure
The California sun is strong; wear protection even on cloudy days at the beach.
Pedestrian Safety
Be cautious when walking in busy areas; always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.