St. Louis has a prime location for rail interchanges in the American Midwest. Whether you’re going to the Gateway Arch, seeing the Cardinals in action, going to Kansas City, or just taking a quick stop on your way to the other side of the country, train travel to St. Louis is a cost-friendly, scenic, and relaxed way to get to the city. St. Louis has Amtrak’s Gateway Station, making all points beyond Chicago and Texas easily accessible. This guide has all the important facts and info, letting you know where to go and how much it will cost to take the train, allowing you to make your decision on rail travel versus air, road, or bus.
Why Take a Train to St. Louis? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel
Rail travel to St. Louis has quietly become one of the most popular ways to reach the city, and for good reason. Here’s why so many travelers are choosing the train over flying or driving.
- Downtown-to-downtown convenience. Amtrak’s Gateway Station drops you right in the heart of downtown St. Louis, just blocks from Busch Stadium, the Gateway Arch, and City Museum. Compare that to St. Louis Lambert International Airport, which sits roughly 15 miles from downtown and requires a rideshare, rental car, or MetroLink ride to reach the city center.
- No airport hassle. There’s no TSA security line, no 2-hour-early arrival requirement, no baggage fees for a first checked bag, and no risk of a gate change at the last minute. You simply arrive at the station, board, and relax.
- More legroom and freedom to move. Amtrak seats offer significantly more legroom than economy airline seats, and passengers are free to walk around, visit the café car, or stretch their legs throughout the journey – something you simply cannot do on a plane or in a car.
- Scenic, relaxing routes. The rail corridors into St. Louis pass through the Illinois prairie, the Mississippi River valley, and small-town Missouri and Illinois – a far more scenic experience than an interstate highway drive.
- Budget-friendly pricing. Advance-purchase Amtrak fares to St. Louis often start well under $40 one-way, making the train one of the cheapest ways to travel between Midwest cities, especially compared to last-minute airfare.
- Reliable Wi-Fi, power outlets, and café service. Most trains serving St. Louis include free Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, and an onboard café car for snacks and drinks – helpful for remote workers, students, or families.
- A greener way to travel. Rail travel produces significantly lower carbon emissions per passenger mile than flying or driving alone, making it an appealing option for environmentally conscious travelers.
- Easy connections to other Midwest destinations. Because St. Louis is a hub on the Amtrak Midwest network, a train ticket to St. Louis often opens up easy onward connections to Chicago, Kansas City, and even Texas via the Texas Eagle.
- Family-friendly travel. Children can move around, families can sit together at a table seat in the café car, and there’s generally more patience built into train travel than the tight confines of a car back seat or an airplane cabin during a long flight.
- A more social way to travel. Café cars and dining cars naturally encourage conversation, and many long-distance riders describe train travel as a more human way to see the country – you notice small towns, farmland, and river crossings that you’d otherwise fly straight over.
Note: For all of these reasons, rail travel to St. Louis has broad appeal – from budget-conscious solo travelers to families, retirees, and business travelers who simply want a predictable, comfortable way to reach the city.
| Reason | Train | Flying | Driving |
| Downtown arrival | Yes | No (airport transfer needed) | Depends on parking |
| Security wait time | None | 30-60+ minutes | None |
| Legroom | High | Low (economy) | N/A |
| Free Wi-Fi | Yes (most trains) | Often paid | N/A |
| Baggage fees | Free checked bags (2 on long-distance) | Often charged | N/A |
| Scenic value | High | None | Moderate |
| Price (advance fare) | $$ (often lowest) | $$$ | $$ (gas + tolls + parking) |
Which Trains Go to St. Louis? Major Rail Services Explained
St. Louis’s Gateway Station is served by several Amtrak routes, each connecting the city to a different part of the country. Understanding which train serves your route is the first step to booking the right ticket.
1. Lincoln Service (Chicago ⇄ St. Louis)
Lincoln Service is the primary state-supported corridor train with several round-trip options each day, connecting Chicago Union Station and the St. Louis Gateway Station. It is a regional train with daytime service and Coach and Business Class seating, as well as a café car, and offers speeds of up to 110 MPH on some sections of the route to make it one of the faster conventional rail corridors in the U.S.
2. Texas Eagle (Chicago ⇄ St. Louis ⇄ San Antonio, with connections to Los Angeles)
The Texas Eagle is a train that runs between Chicago and San Antonio. It makes an overnight trip that stops in St. Louis. Similar to the Lincoln Service, the Texas Eagle has coach seating and a full dining car. However, the Texas Eagle also has roomettes (sleeper cabins for one) and bedrooms (sleeper cabins for two to four) for seating accommodations. Three times a week, a through-car continues to Los Angeles with the Sunset Limited.
3. Missouri River Runner (St. Louis ⇄ Kansas City)
The Missouri River Runner links St. Louis to Kansas City by following the Missouri River through Missouri state capital Jefferson City and the towns of Hermann and Washington. Some of these routes are joined with the Lincoln Service, giving passengers the opportunity for a single change-free ride through Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri from Chicago to Kansas City via St. Louis.
4. Lincoln Service-Missouri River Runner (Chicago ⇄ St. Louis ⇄ Kansas City)
This combined branding covers daily through-trains that link Chicago and Kansas City via St. Louis without a transfer – useful for travelers going all the way across Illinois and Missouri in one sitting.
Quick Comparison Table
| Train | Route | Frequency | Classes Available | Overnight? |
| Lincoln Service | Chicago ⇄ St. Louis | Multiple daily | Coach, Business | No |
| Texas Eagle | Chicago ⇄ St. Louis ⇄ San Antonio (⇄ LA via connection) | Daily | Coach, Sleeper (Roomette/Bedroom) | Yes |
| Missouri River Runner | St. Louis ⇄ Kansas City | 2 daily round trips | Coach, Business | No |
| Lincoln Service-Missouri River Runner | Chicago ⇄ St. Louis ⇄ Kansas City | Daily | Coach, Business | No |
Note: All of these trains fall under Amtrak Midwest, a state-supported network that has invested heavily in faster, more frequent service across Illinois and Missouri in recent years.
Popular Train Routes to St. Louis From Major US Cities
Because St. Louis is a rail hub, travelers from many major US cities can reach it by train – sometimes directly, sometimes with one connection. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular routes.
| From City | Train(s) Used | Approx. Travel Time | Direct or Connection |
| Chicago, IL | Lincoln Service / Texas Eagle | ~5 hours | Direct |
| Kansas City, MO | Missouri River Runner | ~5 hours 40 minutes | Direct |
| New York, NY | Lake Shore Limited + Lincoln Service/Texas Eagle (via Chicago) | ~24-28 hours total | Connection in Chicago |
| Washington, DC / Chicago | Capitol Limited + Lincoln Service (via Chicago) | ~24 hours total | Connection in Chicago |
| San Antonio, TX | Texas Eagle | ~23-24 hours | Direct |
| Dallas / Fort Worth, TX | Texas Eagle | ~13-14 hours | Direct |
| Los Angeles, CA | Texas Eagle + Sunset Limited connection | ~2 days (3x weekly connection) | Connection in San Antonio |
| Springfield, IL | Lincoln Service / Texas Eagle | ~2 hours | Direct |
| Jefferson City, MO | Missouri River Runner | ~2 hours 15 minutes | Direct |
Note: Schedules and travel times can shift slightly by season and specific train number, so always confirm exact departure and arrival times on Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app before booking.
- Regional Snapshot: Chicago to St. Louis: This is the busiest and most frequent corridor into St. Louis. With multiple daily departures on the Lincoln Service plus the daily Texas Eagle, travelers have several time-of-day options, from early morning to evening departures, covering the 284-mile route in roughly 5 hours.
- Regional Snapshot: Kansas City to St. Louis: The Missouri River Runner covers this 283-mile route in about 5 hours 40 minutes, passing through the state capital, Jefferson City, and the wine country around Hermann, Missouri – a genuinely scenic ride through the heart of the state.
- Regional Snapshot: Texas to St. Louis: The Texas Eagle is the only direct rail option linking Texas cities like San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Fort Worth to St. Louis, and it’s an overnight journey with sleeper accommodations available for travelers who want a private room and bed.
- Regional Snapshot: East Coast to St. Louis: New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, travelers will connect in, or occasionally through, Chicago (or other hubs, depending on which long-distance route). This longer route aligns with the Amtrak scheduling of an overnight leg of the journey, but passengers do get to see two distinct scenery routes in one trip. Passengers will either take the Lake Shore Limited or the Capitol Limited, and then take the Midwest Corridor into St. Louis.
- Regional Snapshot: West Coast to St. Louis: For travelers coming from Los Angeles, Seattle, Portland, or Denver, a hub city will be needed, either Chicago (via the Empire Builder or California Zephyr) or San Antonio (via the Sunset Limited, which is a three-day-a-week service). These modes of travel should be taken by those more inclined to take their time with the travel experience to enjoy the journey, and not by those trying to make the shortest connections.
Note: With the extended reach of the Amtrak network, almost any US city with rail service will eventually reach St. Louis; it’s just a matter of how many connections and how much time you are willing to travel.
NYC to St. Louis Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
New York City is one of the most searched origin points for train travel to St. Louis, so it deserves its own detailed breakdown.
There is no single direct train from New York to St. Louis. Instead, travelers connect through Chicago, which means combining two Amtrak services:
- New York (Moynihan Train Hall) → Chicago Union Station – via the Lake Shore Limited, an overnight train that takes approximately 19-22 hours depending on direction and schedule. The Lake Shore Limited runs along the scenic Hudson River and Erie Canal corridor before crossing into the Midwest.
- Chicago Union Station → St. Louis Gateway Station – via the Lincoln Service or Texas Eagle, taking roughly 5 hours.
Total journey time: Approximately 24-28 hours door to door, including a connection window in Chicago (Amtrak typically schedules a comfortable layover, though it’s worth checking the connection time when booking since it can range from under an hour to several hours depending on the day).
NYC-St. Louis Ticket Tips
- Book connecting segments together on Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app so your itinerary is protected – if the first leg runs late, Amtrak will typically rebook you on the next available connecting train at no extra charge.
- Consider a roomette on the Lake Shore Limited for the overnight portion. It costs more than coach but includes a bed, meals, and privacy – genuinely useful for a journey this long.
- Build in a buffer in Chicago. If your connection is tight, consider booking a later Chicago-to-St. Louis train so you’re not rushing between platforms, especially if the Lake Shore Limited is running behind schedule (which can happen on this route).
- Compare with the Cardinal. Three days a week, the Cardinal offers an alternative (and more scenic, if slower) route from New York to Chicago via Washington, DC, and the New River Gorge in West Virginia, for travelers who have flexible dates and want a different scenic experience.
- Flying may be faster, but the train offers a genuine overnight sleeper experience for travelers who see the journey itself as part of the trip, not just a means to an end.
| NYC to St. Louis Option | Approx. Total Time | Overnight Included? | Best For |
| Lake Shore Limited + Lincoln Service/Texas Eagle | 24-28 hours | Yes | Scenic overnight travelers |
| Cardinal + Lincoln Service/Texas Eagle | ~30+ hours (3x weekly) | Yes | Scenic-route enthusiasts with flexible schedules |
| Flying (for comparison) | ~4-5 hours total | No | Time-sensitive travelers |
St. Louis Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
If you’ve never taken an Amtrak train before, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are the essentials.
- Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure. Gateway Station doesn’t require airport-style security, but you’ll want time to find your platform, especially during busy periods like weekends and holidays.
- Check in for checked baggage early. If you’re checking bags (allowed on select trains, including the Texas Eagle), the baggage counter typically closes 30-60 minutes before departure.
- Bring a valid photo ID. While not always checked, it’s good practice to carry ID, especially for booking changes or connecting itineraries.
- Pack snacks, but also expect a café car. Most trains serving St. Louis have a café or dining car selling sandwiches, snacks, and drinks – handy, though it’s cheaper to bring your own food for longer trips.
- Download the Amtrak app before you travel. It lets you check real-time train status, gate/track assignments, and delays, and it stores your eTicket so you don’t need to print anything.
- Dress in layers. Train cars can run cool, especially overnight services like the Texas Eagle.
- Charge your devices at your seat. Nearly every train serving St. Louis has power outlets, but a portable charger is a smart backup for longer legs.
- If connecting through Chicago, know your station layout. Chicago Union Station is large; give yourself extra time to navigate between platforms if your connection window is short.
- Sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards. It’s free to join and lets you start earning points toward future trips, upgrades, and companion fares.
- Double-check your train number and platform, not just the time. Multiple trains can depart around similar times from different platforms – always confirm the correct train number on the departure board.
- Know your boarding process. Unlike air travel, Amtrak boarding is generally simple – you’ll walk to your assigned platform, and staff or conductors will direct coach passengers to available cars while sleeper passengers are typically escorted directly to their room.
- Bring entertainment for longer trips. While Wi-Fi is generally available, it can be spotty in rural areas, especially on longer routes like the Texas Eagle or Lake Shore Limited, so download shows, books, or music ahead of time.
- Keep valuables with you. As with any form of public transit, keep your wallet, phone, and travel documents in a bag you keep close rather than in checked luggage.
- Ask the conductor if you’re unsure. Amtrak conductors and onboard staff are generally very willing to help first-time riders find their seats, understand stops, or figure out connection logistics – don’t hesitate to ask.
- If traveling overnight, bring a travel pillow and light blanket. Even in Sleeper Class, many riders find a personal travel pillow more comfortable than what’s provided, and coach passengers especially benefit from bringing their own.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to St. Louis
Understanding whether your journey is direct or requires a connection helps you plan timing, budget, and layovers correctly.
Direct Routes to St. Louis
- Chicago → St. Louis (Lincoln Service, Texas Eagle)
- Kansas City → St. Louis (Missouri River Runner)
- San Antonio / Dallas / Fort Worth → St. Louis (Texas Eagle)
- Springfield, IL → St. Louis (Lincoln Service, Texas Eagle)
- Jefferson City / Hermann / Washington, MO → St. Louis (Missouri River Runner)
Connecting Routes to St. Louis
- New York / Boston → St. Louis (via Lake Shore Limited or Cardinal, connecting in Chicago)
- Washington, DC → St. Louis (via Capitol Limited or Cardinal, connecting in Chicago)
- Los Angeles → St. Louis (via Texas Eagle/Sunset Limited connection in San Antonio, three days a week)
- Seattle / Portland → St. Louis (via Empire Builder to Chicago, then Lincoln Service or Texas Eagle)
- Denver → St. Louis (via California Zephyr to Chicago, then Lincoln Service or Texas Eagle)
| Connection Type | Example Route | Transfer City | Notes |
| Direct | Chicago → St. Louis | None | Fastest, most frequent option |
| One connection | NYC → Chicago → St. Louis | Chicago | Most common connection pattern |
| One connection | LA → San Antonio → St. Louis | San Antonio | Runs 3x weekly, book carefully |
| Two connections | Seattle → Chicago → St. Louis | Chicago | Longer multi-day itinerary |
Tip: When booking a connecting itinerary, always book it as a single reservation through Amtrak rather than two separate tickets. This protects you if the first train is delayed – Amtrak will rebook you on the next available connection at no additional cost, which doesn’t apply if you booked the legs separately.
Business Class vs Coach on St. Louis Trains
Choosing between Coach and Business Class depends on your budget, trip length, and how much comfort matters to you. Here’s how they compare on trains serving St. Louis.
| Feature | Coach Class | Business Class |
| Seat width/legroom | Comfortable, standard recline | Extra legroom, larger seats |
| Price | Lowest fares | Roughly 20-40% more than coach |
| Refundability | Often less flexible (Saver fares) | Fully refundable if canceled before departure |
| Complimentary drinks | No | Yes (non-alcoholic beverages) |
| Reward points | Standard | 25% bonus for Amtrak Guest Rewards members |
| Seating section | General car | Dedicated, quieter section |
| Lounge access | No | Access to Metropolitan Lounge in Chicago (with eligible ticket) |
| Available on | Lincoln Service, Missouri River Runner, Texas Eagle (coach) | Lincoln Service, Missouri River Runner |
Is Business Class Worth It?
For a short trip like Chicago-St. Louis (about 5 hours), Business Class is a nice but optional upgrade – the extra legroom, quieter cabin, and free drinks are appreciated, but Coach is perfectly comfortable for most travelers. Business Class becomes more valuable if:
- You’re traveling during peak, busier periods and want a calmer environment.
- You value the fully refundable fare policy for flexible plans.
- You’re an Amtrak Guest Rewards member chasing bonus points.
What About Sleeper Class on the Texas Eagle?
A third choice, Sleeper Class, is available on the overnight Texas Eagle route. Passengers in Sleeper Class travel in a private room with an included bed. Sleeper Class passengers also have the option to purchase a Bedroom. Sleeper Class is not just another tier of seating, and these private rooms include a bed and meals so you travel in comfort and relative privacy in Sleeper Class.
| Sleeper Option | Best For | Includes |
| Roomette | Solo travelers or couples | 2 beds, meals, privacy, shared restroom down the hall |
| Bedroom | Couples/families wanting more space | 2 beds, private in-room toilet/sink, meals |
St. Louis Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Gateway Station & Chicago Union Station
Two stations matter most for travelers heading to St. Louis: St. Louis Gateway Station, your arrival point, and Chicago Union Station, the connecting hub most routes pass through.
St. Louis Gateway Station
Gateway Station opened in 2008, consolidating the city’s train and bus services into a single modern hub. It’s located right in downtown St. Louis, within easy walking distance of Busch Stadium and just a short ride from the Gateway Arch.
Key features of Gateway Station:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the station
- A food court with several dining options
- A dedicated lounge area for First Class/eligible passengers
- Direct connection to the MetroLink light rail system, which reaches St. Louis Lambert International Airport in about 30 minutes
- A hub for multiple Amtrak lines (Lincoln Service, Texas Eagle, Missouri River Runner) as well as intercity bus carriers
- Surrounded by hotels, bars, and restaurants, making it a convenient walk-in/walk-out station without needing a taxi for many downtown hotels.
Chicago Union Station
For any journey to St. Louis that begins on the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, or West Coast, you’ll very likely pass through Chicago Union Station, the third-busiest train station in the country and the hub for 15 Amtrak routes.
Key features of Chicago Union Station:
- Large, historic Great Hall with a grand waiting area
- Connections to Metra commuter rail and the Chicago ‘L’ train system nearby
- Multiple dining and retail options throughout the concourse
- A Metropolitan Lounge for eligible Business Class, Sleeper, and Select Executive/Select Plus Guest Rewards members
- Ample signage, but the station is large – allow extra time if you have a tight connection between arriving and departing trains
| Station | City | Key Feature | Connects To |
| Gateway Station | St. Louis, MO | Downtown location, MetroLink access | Airport (30 min via MetroLink), local buses |
| Chicago Union Station | Chicago, IL | Major national hub, 15 Amtrak routes | Metra, Chicago ‘L’, intercity buses |
How to Book Train Tickets to St. Louis: Step-by-Step Guide
Booking a train ticket to St. Louis is straightforward. Here’s a simple step-by-step process.
- Decide your travel dates and origin city. Flexibility of even a day or two can significantly change your fare, especially around weekends and holidays.
- Go to Amtrak.com or open the Amtrak app. Both offer the same fares – the app is convenient for storing your ticket and getting real-time status updates.
- Enter your origin and destination. Search “St. Louis, MO – Gateway Station (STL)” as your destination.
- Compare available trains and times. You’ll see multiple departure options (for Chicago and Kansas City routes especially), along with fare class options (Coach, Business, Sleeper where applicable).
- Choose your fare type. Amtrak typically offers tiered pricing – Saver (cheapest, least flexible), Value, and Flexible (fully refundable) – so pick based on how firm your plans are.
- Add any connecting segments in the same booking. If you’re traveling from a city that requires a transfer (like New York via Chicago), make sure both legs are included in a single itinerary.
- Select seats/accommodations. For Coach and Business, you may be able to choose your seat; for Sleeper Class, you’ll choose a Roomette or Bedroom.
- Add extras if needed. This includes checked baggage (on eligible trains), pets in carriers (small pets under 20 lbs for a fee), or bikes.
- Review and pay. Amtrak accepts major credit/debit cards, and Amtrak Guest Rewards points can also be redeemed for travel.
- Save your eTicket. You’ll receive a digital ticket via email and in the Amtrak app – no need to print unless you prefer a paper copy.
Booking Tips
- Book 30-60 days in advance for the best fare selection, especially on popular routes like Chicago-St. Louis.
- Midweek travel (Tuesday-Thursday) is generally cheaper than weekend departures.
- Set up a free Amtrak Guest Rewards account before booking so your trip automatically earns points.
- Check for connecting itineraries even if you didn’t think one was needed – Amtrak’s search tool will often suggest the best connection automatically.
- Compare nearby travel dates. Amtrak’s booking engine typically lets you view fares for a few days before and after your chosen date, which can reveal a noticeably cheaper option just a day or two away.
- Consider a multi-city or open-jaw itinerary if you’re planning to visit St. Louis as part of a broader Midwest trip – for example, arriving via Chicago and departing toward Kansas City – since Amtrak’s booking system supports multi-segment trips in a single search.
- Watch for Amtrak promotions. Amtrak periodically runs companion fare deals, discounted Guest Rewards point redemptions, or seasonal sales on Midwest corridor routes, so it’s worth checking the “Deals” section on Amtrak.com before finalizing your booking.
- Verify accessibility needs in advance. If you require a wheelchair-accessible seat, additional boarding assistance, or a service animal accommodation, it’s best to call Amtrak or note this during booking so station staff can prepare accordingly.
Note: Once booked, you can manage, modify, or cancel most reservations directly through the Amtrak app or website, depending on the fare type you purchased.
St. Louis Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Ticket prices to St. Louis vary based on route, how far in advance you book, day of the week, and class of service. Here’s a general breakdown based on the most common routes.
| Route | Approx. Starting Price (Coach, one-way) | Approx. Average Price | Business/Sleeper Starting Price |
| Chicago → St. Louis | $30-$41 | $55-$65 | Business ~$62+ |
| Kansas City → St. Louis | $30-$45 | $50-$70 | Business ~$60+ |
| San Antonio/Dallas → St. Louis | $60-$90 | $100-$150 | Sleeper Roomette ~$162+ (includes meals) |
| New York → St. Louis (via Chicago, connection) | $120-$200+ | $180-$280 | Sleeper (Lake Shore Limited leg) adds ~$150-$250+ |
Note: Prices fluctuate based on demand, season, and how far ahead you book – treat these as general starting ranges rather than fixed prices.
How to Save Money on Train Tickets to St. Louis
- Book early. Amtrak’s cheapest Saver fares sell out first; booking 4-8 weeks ahead usually secures the lowest price.
- Travel midweek. Tuesday and Wednesday departures are typically the cheapest days to travel.
- Avoid peak holiday windows (Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Year) unless you book far in advance, as prices rise sharply.
- Consider off-peak departure times. Early morning or late-night trains are often cheaper than midday departures.
- Look into monthly fare trends. Some data suggests certain months (like September on the Chicago-St. Louis corridor) tend to have lower average fares due to reduced demand.
- Check for discounts. Amtrak offers reduced fares for children (ages 2-16), seniors, veterans, and active-duty military.
- Use Amtrak Guest Rewards points if you travel frequently – points can offset or fully cover future fares.
- Compare fare types. If your plans are firm, a non-refundable Saver fare is much cheaper than a Flexible fare – only pay for flexibility if you genuinely need it.
- Sign up for Amtrak email alerts or check fares regularly, since promotional sales occasionally appear on popular Midwest corridors.
Best Time to Visit St. Louis by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
St. Louis has a genuine four-season climate, and both your travel comfort and ticket prices can shift depending on when you go.
- Spring (March-May): The mild temperatures that accompany the start of spring and the scenic views that bloom along both the Missouri River and Mississippi River corridors make the Missouri River Runner and Lincoln Service rides a perfect springtime activity. Fares are also affordable during this time, excluding spring break travel week periods.
- Summer (June-August): Higher visitor numbers in St. Louis during peak season are caused by the best weather at the Arch grounds, riverfront activities, and games for the Cardinals. Fares will be higher, especially around the week of the 4th of July. Book early.
- Fall (September-November): September is one of the best months to travel, particularly along the Chicago-St. Louis rail corridor, as it is described as one of the more affordable options. Rail corridors through Illinois and Missouri have fall foliage, making it scenic alongside the trip.
- Winter (December-February): You should plan to travel during Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year’s holidays early because prices increase rapidly within these windows. During the rest of the winter months, tickets are the cheapest, and there are the most seats, though most travelers experience a little more service disruptions due to the weather.
| Season | Weather | Crowd Levels | Typical Fare Trend | Best For |
| Spring | Mild | Moderate | Moderate | Scenic river views, mild sightseeing |
| Summer | Warm/hot | High | Higher (especially July 4th) | Festivals, baseball, riverfront activities |
| Fall | Cool, comfortable | Lower | Often lower | Best overall value and comfort |
| Winter | Cold | Low (except holidays) | Low (except holidays) | Budget travel, quieter stations |
Train vs Bus vs Car to St. Louis: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
Choosing between train, bus, and car depends on your priorities – cost, comfort, flexibility, or speed. Here’s a side-by-side comparison for a typical Chicago-to-St. Louis trip.
| Factor | Train (Amtrak) | Bus (e.g., Greyhound/Megabus) | Car |
| Approx. travel time | ~5 hours | ~5.5-6.5 hours | ~4.5-5 hours (traffic-dependent) |
| Starting price | ~$30-$41 | ~$20-$40 | Gas + tolls (~$40-$70 round trip) + parking |
| Comfort | High (legroom, café car, restroom) | Moderate | Depends on driver fatigue |
| Downtown arrival | Yes (Gateway Station) | Yes (varies by carrier) | Depends on destination/parking |
| Ability to work/relax | High (Wi-Fi, tray tables, space to move) | Moderate | None (if driving) |
| Flexibility to change plans | Moderate (fare-dependent) | Moderate | High |
| Environmental impact | Lower per passenger | Lower per passenger | Higher (solo driving) |
| Weather resilience | Generally reliable | Weather-dependent | Weather-dependent |
- When the Train Wins: If you value comfort, want to work or relax during the trip, prefer a downtown arrival point, and don’t want to deal with driving fatigue or traffic, the train is usually the best option – especially on the well-served Chicago-St. Louis or Kansas City-St. Louis corridors.
- When the Bus Wins: If you’re looking for the absolute lowest price with no regard for travel time, budget bus companies may be cheaper than Amtrak. However, you will probably end up sacrificing discomfort and legroom.
- When the Car Wins: If you need freedom to make stops along the way, have a lot of luggage or equipment, or are planning to hit St. Louis’ many sites beyond the transit stops, then driving provides you the most door-to-door flexibility, but also increases the fatigue level of the driver and adds the anxiety of weather-related and congestion-related travel delays.
Note: Most travelers from either Chicago or Kansas City would agree the train service offers the best cost, comfort, and overall convenience balance. This is mainly attributed to service stations located in the heart of the two cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What train station do I arrive at in St. Louis?
Trains arrive at Gateway Station, located in downtown St. Louis, close to Busch Stadium and a short ride from the Gateway Arch. It’s also connected to the MetroLink light rail system.
2. How long does the train from Chicago to St. Louis take?
The Lincoln Service and Texas Eagle both cover the 284-mile route in approximately 5 hours, though exact times vary slightly by train number and schedule.
3. Is there a direct train from New York to St. Louis?
No, there is no single direct train. You’ll connect through Chicago, typically taking the Lake Shore Limited (or Cardinal) overnight to Chicago, then the Lincoln Service or Texas Eagle onward to St. Louis. Total travel time is roughly 24-28 hours.
4. How much does a train ticket to St. Louis cost?
Prices vary by route and how far ahead you book. Chicago-St. fares often start around $30-$41 for Coach, while longer routes (like from Texas or New York) can range from $60 to $280+ depending on distance and class.
5. Does Amtrak offer sleeper cars on trains to St. Louis?
Yes, on the Texas Eagle, which offers Roomettes and Bedrooms for the overnight portions of the journey (such as between Chicago/St. Louis and Texas). The Lincoln Service and Missouri River Runner do not offer sleeper accommodations, as they are shorter daytime routes.
6. Can I bring luggage on the train to St. Louis?
Yes. Amtrak generally allows carry-on bags at your seat, and checked baggage is available on select trains (including the Texas Eagle) at eligible stations, typically at no extra charge for the first couple of bags.
7. Is Wi-Fi available on trains to St. Louis?
Most trains serving St. Louis, including the Lincoln Service, Missouri River Runner, and Texas Eagle, offer complimentary Wi-Fi, though connection quality can vary in rural stretches.
8. What is the fastest way to get from Kansas City to St. Louis by train?
The Missouri River Runner is the only direct train option, covering the 283-mile route in about 5 hours 40 minutes, with stops including Jefferson City and Hermann.
9. Are pets allowed on trains to St. Louis?
Small pets under 20 pounds are generally allowed in an approved carrier for a fee on eligible routes; service animals travel free. Policies can vary slightly by specific train, so it’s worth checking Amtrak’s pet policy before booking.
10. What’s the best time of year to take the train to St. Louis for the lowest fares?
Fall (especially September) and non-holiday winter months tend to offer the lowest average fares, while summer and major holiday periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Year) see the highest demand and prices.