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Kansas City, MO, USA to Ames, IA, USA from $40: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Kansas City to Ames: 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.

$40 - DriveBest price
369 kmDistance
3h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kansas City to Ames 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
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$40-100
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$40-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 369 km
Duration: 3h 45m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  35m
Estimated price
$56-133
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  20m
Estimated price
$270-720
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Traveling From Kansas City to Ames

Traveling from Kansas City to Ames offers you a journey from the vibrant urban energy of the city to the charming, laid-back atmosphere of a college town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ames

Ames features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Ames
• Home to vibrant shops and restaurants.
• Hosts frequent community events and festivals.
West Ames
• Features spacious parks and outdoor activities.
• Close to Iowa State University amenities.
Historic Old Town
• Showcases beautiful, preserved architecture.
• Offers a cozy, local coffee shop scene.

Best Times To Visit Ames's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your experience at Ames's best attractions.

Iowa State University
Visit in early fall for beautiful campus foliage and fewer crowds.
Reiman Gardens
Spring months offer vibrant blooms; mornings are typically less busy.
Ames Main Street
Weekday afternoons provide a more relaxed shopping experience.

Ames Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ames experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather conditions can significantly influence your travel plans, so packing accordingly ensures a comfortable experience.

Dining Recommendation in Ames

Try the farm-to-table offerings at The Café in Ames, where you can enjoy seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. This experience contrasts sharply with Kansas City's barbecue scene, presenting you with fresh flavors and a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the town's agricultural roots.

Kansas City - Ames operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Kansas City, MO to Ames, IA

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$40-100

Bus from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Ames, IA

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
5h 2m
Estimated price
$190-402
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$404-405
Website
delta.com

Plane from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
5h 37m
Estimated price
$407-408
Website
united.com

Plane from Kansas City, MO to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
5h 44m
Estimated price
$190-400

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

Traveling between Kansas City and Ames 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic drive from Kansas City to Ames, covering a distance of 229 miles. Enjoy the journey through the heartland of the United States. ⏱️ With an average driving time of 3 hours and 45 minutes, you can experience the beauty of the Midwest countryside on your way to Ames. Set aside time for pit stops and enjoy the road trip. 💰 Prices to travel from Kansas City to Ames by car typically range from $40 to $60, making it an affordable and convenient option for those seeking a budget-friendly road trip adventure. Pack some snacks, cue up your favorite playlist, and hit the road for a memorable journey.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚆 Depart from Kansas City and embark on a scenic train journey to Ames USA. The route covers a distance of 233 miles and includes a transfer along the way. 🚌 Transfer to a bus towards Des Moines as part of the trip. Travel time on the bus from Kansas City to Des Moines is approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes, with a comfortable ride provided by Jefferson Lines. 🛤️ Complete the journey with another bus transfer from Des Moines to Ames, taking around 40 minutes. Enjoy the convenience of Jefferson Lines' services as you travel through the picturesque landscapes towards your destination.
🛫 Flying from Kansas City to Ames involves taking a flight with one stopover, typically lasting around 4 hours and 2 minutes. Airlines like Southwest, Delta, American, and United operate flights on this route. 🌆 After landing at Des Moines Airport, travelers can easily reach Ames within approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes by plane. Although there isn't a direct flight, the journey offers a convenient way to travel between the two cities. 💸 Depending on the airline and time of booking, flight prices between Ames and Kansas City range from $270 to $720. Finding the best deal may involve comparing prices and booking in advance for a more affordable trip.
Departure Point
Kansas City Airport
Arrival Point
Des Moines Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 2m and has one stopover
🛣️ The journey from Kansas City to Ames by bus takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, covering a distance of 233 miles. With a transfer in Des Moines, passengers can enjoy a seamless travel experience. 💰 Ticket prices for the Kansas City to Ames bus route range from $40 to $100, making it an affordable and efficient transportation option for those seeking to explore Iowa from Missouri.
Departure Point
Kansas City, MO station
Arrival Point
Ames, IA station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Kansas City and Ames is approximately 210 miles by air and 229 miles by road. The typical travel time to reach Ames from Kansas City by plane is 7 hours and 40 minutes. If you prefer driving, it takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to travel from Ames to Kansas City by car. Another option is the bus, which takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes to reach Ames from Kansas City.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Kansas City to Ames is to drive. It takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes and costs around $40 to $60 for fuel and tolls. Taking a plane or bus may be quicker in terms of travel time, but they are generally more expensive options. Driving allows you the flexibility to make stops along the way and enjoy the scenic route.
The prices of a bus ticket between Ames and Kansas City range from $40 to $100. The exact price may depend on factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and the availability of seats. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online platforms for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To get from Kansas City to Ames without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 229 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to drive there. The cost of driving from Kansas City to Ames by car typically ranges from $40 to $60, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Kansas City to Ames is by bus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes. The cost of a bus ticket typically ranges from $40 to $100. Taking the bus allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic route without the hassle of driving.
Yes, there is a direct link between Kansas City and Ames. Jefferson Lines operates a bus service that departs from Kansas City and arrives at Ames. The buses run five times a day and operate every day, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct option for travel between the two cities.
The flight duration between Kansas City and Ames can vary depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight option with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes. As for the cost, the price range for a flight between Ames and Kansas City typically falls between $260 and $820. It's important to note that prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are a variety of options for accommodation near Ames. There are at least 39 hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices to suit different budgets. Prices start at $54 per night. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a more luxurious stay, you should be able to find a suitable hotel near Ames.

Trips from Kansas City