The Amtrak Missouri River Runner: St. Louis to Kansas City

This train suits travelers looking for a comfortable way to cross Missouri without traffic. It is popular with weekend visitors heading to the wineries of Hermann, cyclists accessing the Katy Trail and passengers making long distance connections. The route offers a relaxed alternative to driving between these major cities. With two round trips a day as of 2026, the schedule allows for flexible planning. You can easily spend a few days exploring the German heritage wine town of Hermann or the state capital in Jefferson City before continuing your journey. It is also an excellent choice for a first time on Amtrak because it is a manageable daytime trip.

Route overview

The Missouri River Runner operates entirely within the state of Missouri. The train runs between St. Louis Gateway Station and Kansas City Union Station. The journey covers about 283 miles and takes about 5 hours 40 minutes from end to end. As of 2026, the service is supported by the state of Missouri and runs daily with two round trips a day. This frequency makes it easy to complete the trip in a single morning or afternoon. Because it is not an overnight train, you will experience the entire route in daylight. The train stops at several intermediate stations, including Kirkwood, Washington, Hermann, Jefferson City, Sedalia, Warrensburg, Lee's Summit and Independence. You can connect to other long distance routes at either end of the line. In St. Louis, passengers can transfer to the Texas Eagle or the Lincoln Service. At the western terminus in Kansas City, you can board the Southwest Chief. The schedule and daily operation make it a reliable link between the Midwest and the western United States.

What you see, section by section

Washington to Jefferson City

After leaving the St. Louis suburbs, the train enters the Missouri River valley. This section features views of the river and tall limestone bluffs. You will pass through Hermann, which is known as a German heritage wine town. The tracks also run parallel to the Katy Trail bike path in this area. The scenery remains focused on the river and surrounding woodlands as the train approaches Jefferson City.

Sedalia to Kansas City

West of Jefferson City, the landscape gradually shifts away from the river valley. By the time the train departs Sedalia, you will see rolling western Missouri farmland. The agricultural fields and small rural communities dominate the view. As the train nears Kansas City, the rural scenery transitions into the outer suburbs of Lee's Summit and Independence. The trip concludes at the historic Kansas City Union Station.

Classes and onboard

• Coach
• Café car

The Missouri River Runner is a daytime train, so it does not offer sleeper accommodations. Passengers travel in Coach class. The seating is comfortable and features ample legroom, folding tray tables and reading lights. You will have access to standard amenities, and you can read our guide on Wi-Fi and staying connected on the train to prepare for the trip. The train also includes a Café car. This car sells a variety of hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals throughout the journey. You can purchase food there or bring your own meals on board. Since the trip takes about 5 hours 40 minutes, bringing a few snacks is a good idea. There is no assigned seating, so you can choose your spot when you board.