City to city
Los Angeles to Kansas City by Train
You can travel directly from Los Angeles to Kansas City on the Amtrak Southwest Chief, an overnight train journey that takes about 31 to 37 hours.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Chief | about 31 to 37 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
Traveling by train from Southern California to the Midwest offers a relaxing alternative to flying or driving. The direct route connects Los Angeles and Kansas City without the need to change trains. Passengers cross multiple states, passing through deserts, mountains, and plains. The service runs daily in each direction as of 2026. This trip requires spending at least one night on board, so planning your sleeping arrangements is important. Whether you are visiting family or exploring the middle of the country, the train provides a comfortable and scenic ride.
Your train options
The Southwest Chief is the only direct train between Los Angeles and Kansas City. It operates daily in each direction, and the trip takes about 31 to 37 hours depending on the schedule. Because this is a long journey, you will spend the night on the train.
Budget travelers can book a seat in Coach, which features reclining seats and leg rests. If you want more privacy and a flat bed, you can upgrade to a sleeper. Options include a Superliner Roomette, a Superliner Bedroom, a Family Bedroom, or an Accessible Bedroom. You can learn more about these choices in our guide to Amtrak roomettes and bedrooms.
All passengers have access to the Sightseer Lounge car, which has large windows for viewing the landscape. Sleeper passengers also get meals included in the Dining car. If you are trying to decide how to travel, consider how well you sleep in a seat versus a private room.
The journey
The scenery between Los Angeles and Kansas City changes dramatically as you cross the American West. Leaving Los Angeles, the train climbs through the Cajon Pass and crosses the Mojave Desert. Depending on your direction of travel, this section is mostly at night westbound.
In Arizona, you pass the ponderosa pine forests around Flagstaff and the Painted Desert near Winslow. The route then enters the red rock country of western New Mexico before reaching Albuquerque. Continuing east, the train climbs Raton Pass. This is the highest point on the route at roughly 7,580 feet.
After crossing into Colorado at Trinidad, you travel through the high plains and mesas along the historic Santa Fe Trail. The final stretch follows the old Santa Fe main line across Kansas to Kansas City. This Kansas section is largely traversed at night when traveling westbound. Main stops along the way include Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Dodge City, and Topeka.
The stations
Your journey begins at Los Angeles Union Station, which opened in 1939. The building features a mix of Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture. It serves as a terminus for the Southwest Chief, Coast Starlight, and Sunset Limited, and is a hub for the Pacific Surfliner. You can easily connect to Metro Rail lines, Metrolink commuter trains, and the FlyAway bus to LAX airport.
You will arrive at Kansas City Union Station. Opened in 1914, this grand restored building houses a science center and restaurants. The KC Streetcar stops right outside the entrance. The station is served by the Southwest Chief and the Missouri River Runner.
Tips
- Book your tickets well in advance to secure the best prices on sleeper accommodations.
- Bring a blanket and travel pillow if you plan on sleeping in coach overnight.
- Spend time in the Sightseer Lounge car to get the best views of Raton Pass.
- Check the current timetable to see which parts of the scenery you will pass during daylight hours.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to change trains between Los Angeles and Kansas City?
No, you do not need to change trains for this trip. The Amtrak Southwest Chief provides a direct service between Los Angeles Union Station and Kansas City Union Station. You can stay on the same train for the entire journey.
How long does the train ride take?
The journey between Los Angeles and Kansas City takes about 31 to 37 hours. The exact travel time depends on the current schedule, track conditions, and whether you are traveling eastbound or westbound. You will spend at least one night on board.
Are meals included on the train?
Meals in the Dining car are included in the ticket price if you book a Superliner Roomette, Superliner Bedroom, Family Bedroom, or Accessible Bedroom. Passengers traveling in Coach must pay for their own food or bring their own snacks for the trip.