Is there a bus to Phoenix?

Yes, Greyhound offers service from St. Louis to Phoenix with transfers.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 23 hours.

What is the best route?

I-70 West to I-40 West is the most direct path.

Yes, there are direct flights from St. Louis (STL) to Phoenix (PHX).

Phoenix is generally safe, but stick to well-lit, populated areas in the tourist districts.

Wentzville

Phoenix

Driving

Wentzville to Phoenix

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Wentzville to Phoenix is a massive 1,600-mile cross-country journey. You will head west through Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico before entering Arizona. The primary route involves taking I-70 West to I-40 West. Expect a driving time of approximately 23 hours. This is a major long-distance trip that requires careful planning and multiple overnight stops.

Total Distance: 2,575 km driving distance; 2,200 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-70 and I-40 is the fastest route, taking 23 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most economical choice at roughly $280 in fuel.

Compare Wentzville to Phoenix Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

23 hours

Avg Price

$250-$350

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

I-70 W to I-40 W through Denver, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff.

Mountain passes in Colorado and Arizona can be challenging; check weather conditions.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Phoenix traffic can be heavy; plan your travel to avoid peak rush hours.
Rest Stops
Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a good place to stop for a meal and a break.
Weather
Phoenix is extremely hot in the summer; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Tolls
There are few tolls on this route, but be aware of local express lanes in major cities.
Navigation
Use a GPS with real-time traffic updates to navigate the complex highway systems in major cities.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
This is a very long drive; plan for at least two overnight stops to stay safe.
Vehicle Check
Check your tires and cooling system, as the heat and distance are demanding on vehicles.
Emergency Kit
Carry extra water and a first-aid kit, as some stretches of I-40 are quite remote.
Speeding
New Mexico and Arizona state police are very active on the interstates; watch your speed.