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Chicago, IL, USA to Kansas City, MO, USA from $22: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Kansas City, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Kansas City: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$22 by trainBest price
667.2 kmDistance
4h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Kansas City with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$242-555
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
11h  15m
Estimated price
$22-190
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 667.2 km
Duration: 4h 29m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
11h  30m
Estimated price
$62-153
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  31m
Estimated price
$90-140
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  52m
Estimated price
$232-855
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  13m
Estimated price
$266-641

Traveling From Chicago to Kansas City

Embarking on the journey from Chicago to Kansas City offers a delightful contrast, where the bustling city vibes of the Windy City transition into the laid-back charm and rich culinary scenes of Kansas City.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kansas City

Kansas City's neighborhoods offer diverse culture, food, and entertainment options.

Crossroads Arts District
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and studios.
• Popular food trucks and local eateries abound.
Westport
• Historic area with charming architecture.
• Lively nightlife and diverse dining experiences.
Country Club Plaza
• Spanish-inspired shopping and dining destination.
• Scenic parks and fountains enhance the atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Kansas City's Attractions

Timing your visits to Kansas City's attractions can elevate your experience.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Visit on weekdays during the morning for fewer crowds and a calm atmosphere.
Union Station
Afternoons on weekdays offer a less hectic experience compared to weekends.
Kauffman Stadium
Catch games during weekday evenings for a vibrant yet manageable crowd.

Kansas City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kansas City experiences a humid continental climate, bringing hot summers and cold winters, with spring and fall offering more temperate conditions. Planning your visit for spring or fall can enhance your travel experience, as mild weather makes it enjoyable to explore the city's outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Kansas City

Try the Kansas City-style barbecue at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, where slow-smoked meats and tangy sauces create a flavor profile that stands apart from Chicago's deep-dish staples. The casual, lively atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients offer a relaxed dining experience that invites you to savor each bite while immersing yourself in the city’s rich food culture.

Chicago - Kansas City operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Kansas City, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$240-550
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
1h 49m
Estimated price
$230-850
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$230-850
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Kansas City

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$22-190

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$3-75
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$35-85

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Kansas City Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$27-70

Chicago to Kansas City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Kansas City offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Roam through the heartland of America as you embark on a scenic road trip from Chicago to Kansas City, covering a distance of 513 miles in approximately 8 hours and 31 minutes. 💸 Dive into a range of pricing options between $90 to $140 for your journey by car from Chicago to Kansas City, offering flexibility to match your budget and travel preferences.
Average price
$90 - $140
🚆 Departing from Chicago Union Station, travelers can embark on a scenic train journey to Kansas City taking approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes with Amtrak services operating daily. 🌆 The route spans a distance of 560 miles, offering passengers a relaxing and comfortable way to travel between the vibrant city of Chicago and the cultural hub of Kansas City. Ticket prices range from $22 to $190 for this memorable train experience.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Kansas City station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Chicago to Kansas City, Amtrak offers onboard catering through its food car. You can choose from a variety of snacks, beverages, and prepared meal options. Look for their 'Amtrak Café' where you can purchase sandwiches, salads, and drinks. The food service varies based on the time of day, so if you're traveling during meal hours, expect a more substantial menu.
• Amtrak provides different seating options on this route. You can choose from Coach Class, which offers comfortable reclining seats, or opt for Business Class for more spacious seating and complimentary snacks. The First Class option is available on select routes and offers additional amenities, including priority boarding and enhanced meal service. Make sure to check the Amtrak website for your specific route's available seating: Amtrak Website.
• After arriving in Kansas City at the Union Station, take note that it is a major transport hub with several options for local transit. You can leave your luggage at the station since it has baggage services, and restrooms are also available for your convenience. To get to the city center quickly, use the local bus service. Take the MAX (Metro Area Express) bus route 3, which runs directly from Union Station to various downtown stops. More local transport information can be found here: Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Kansas City is quick and convenient, with a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Kansas City Airport taking just 1 hour and 25 minutes with Southwest Airlines. ✈️ The total travel time by plane from Chicago to Kansas City is approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes, including layovers or connections if applicable.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Kansas City Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Chicago to Kansas City, you can reach your destination with a journey time of approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers. 🛣️ The route from Chicago to Kansas City covers a distance of 576 miles and involves one transfer, typically through St. Louis, with Greyhound USA operating the bus services for this trip. 💲 Ticket prices for the Chicago to Kansas City bus route can vary from $62 to $153, offering travelers different options to choose from.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Kansas City Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Opt for the Greyhound service that departs from Chicago Bus Station to St. Louis, giving yourself ample time for a comfortable transfer; the bus ride lasts about 6 hours 40 minutes, allowing you to rest before the next leg of your journey.
• During your transfer in St. Louis, take a short break at the Gateway Arch or grab a bite at a nearby café; the bus station is conveniently located near several dining options which you can explore to recharge before continuing to Kansas City.
• Upon arriving at the Kansas City Bus Station, be aware that it is situated in the downtown area and offers easy connections to local transit; familiarize yourself with the Kansas City Metro bus schedules in advance for easy navigation to your final destination in the city. You can find more information at Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Kansas City.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Chicago and Kansas City is approximately 415 miles, or 512.9 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes 11 hours and 15 minutes to reach Kansas City from Chicago. Alternatively, taking a train to Milwaukee and then flying to Kansas City takes approximately 6 hours and 13 minutes. By plane, the travel time is 4 hours and 20 minutes. If driving, it takes around 8 hours and 31 minutes by car, while traveling by bus takes approximately 11 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Kansas City is by train, with tickets ranging from $22 to $190. Although it takes 11 hours and 15 minutes, it is a budget-friendly choice. If time is of the essence, the fastest option would be to fly, with a travel time of 4 hours and 20 minutes, but the cost can range from $110 to $600. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices for traveling from Chicago to Kansas City by train vary from $22 to $190. Similarly, the prices for traveling from Kansas City to Chicago by bus range from $62 to $152. It is advisable to check with the respective train and bus operators for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information before planning your trip.
To get from Chicago to Kansas City without using public transportation, driving is the most common option. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 513 miles, and it takes around 8 hours and 31 minutes to drive. The prices for a car journey from Chicago to Kansas City can vary, typically ranging from $90 to $140. This allows for the flexibility of making stops along the way and exploring different sights as you travel.
The best way to travel from Chicago to Kansas City without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $22 and $190. Another option is to take a flight, which takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes and costs between $110 and $600. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a bus, which takes approximately 11 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $60 and $160.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Chicago and Kansas City. The train service operated by Amtrak departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives at Kansas City station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, there is no direct bus from Chicago to Kansas City, but Greyhound USA offers bus services with transfers in St. Louis. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 25 minutes.
The flight between Chicago and Kansas City typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of a flight can vary between $112 and $555. It is recommended to book in advance to secure lower fares.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Kansas City, with over 292 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $42 per night, depending on the location and amenities of the hotel. Some popular options include the Hotel Kansas City, the Intercontinental Kansas City at the Plaza, and the 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City. Whether you are looking for luxury, budget-friendly, or something in between, there are plenty of options to suit your needs in the area.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Kansas City