Traveling by train to Saint Louis, Missouri is a great way to get to the Gateway City. It is a relaxing and beautiful way to travel to thousands of destinations Amtrak has available. Are you traveling to see the Gateway Arch? Maybe you are traveling to visit the Saint Louis Zoo? Maybe you are traveling for your business and connecting through the Midwest? With Amtrak service, you can get to Saint Louis from so many major cities in the United States. This guide has everything you need to know about traveling to Saint Louis on the train: the routes, the schedules, ticket pricing, station check-in times, and overall affordable ways to travel.
Saint Louis is a train hub of the mid-west United States, so it attracts a great number of travelers who are going from place to place from Chicago, Texas, and even Kansas City, to name a few. We have everything you need to travel to Saint Louis by train. This guide is made to give you confidence to travel.
Why Take a Train to Saint Louis? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel
The train option over driving or flying towards Saint Louis comes with several significant advantages. The following are some of the major advantages of rail travel:
- A hassle-free airport experience There’s no hassles at airports – Skip TSA lines for baggage, lines, and lengthy security screenings. Train stations generally require passengers to be at the station 30 minutes prior to departure.
- The most stunning Midwest perspectives – Trains traveling towards Saint Louis pass through farmland tiny towns as well as riverscapes can’t be seen from the air.
- Downtown convenience that connects to downtown Convenience from downtown to downtown Amtrak puts you close to the center of Saint Louis, close to important attractions, hotels and business areas.
- A greater amount of legroom and more comfort The coach seats on Amtrak are larger and provide greater space than the standard Economy airline seats.
- Cheap ticket choices rail fares for Saint Louis are often cheaper than flights that are last minute, particularly those that are booked ahead.
- Families can be able to move about, there’s not a strict limits on the weight of carry-on bags unlike the restrictions airlines place on carry-on bags.
- It is environmentally friendly and generates significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions per person than driving on your own.
- Power outlets and free Wi-Fi Many Amtrak trains that serve Saint Louis offer onboard Wi-Fi as well as outlets, allowing you to be streaming or working during your trip.
If you’re looking for convenience, savings on costs, and an unhurried travel, the train is an excellent option to travel to Saint Louis.
Which Trains Go to Saint Louis? Major Rail Services Explained
Amtrak provides some important train services that stop in Saint Louis. From Saint Louis, passengers can travel to Chicago, Kansas City, and Texas, as well as other nearby places. Here’s the main Amtrak train services available to Saint Louis:
| Train Service | Route Covered | Frequency | Key Stops |
| Lincoln Service | Chicago – Saint Louis | Multiple daily departures | Joliet, Bloomington, Springfield, Alton |
| Texas Eagle | Chicago – San Antonio (extends to Los Angeles) | Daily | Springfield, Saint Louis, Little Rock, Dallas |
| Missouri River Runner | Saint Louis – Kansas City | Twice daily | Jefferson City, Hermann, Warrensburg |
Lincoln Service is the most convenient option for travel between Chicago and St. Louis, having multiple daily trunk service runs with an excellent on-time record.
Texas Eagle is a long distance service with a Chicago-San Antonio route with St. Louis as a direct route city. This service is tailored to travel to or from Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, or other Texas destinations. The Texas Eagle connects to Los Angeles via the Sunset Limited three days of the week on a combined service.
Missouri River Runner connects St. Louis to Kansas City, making it the recommended train service for travel within Missouri, with stops in the towns of Hermann and Jefferson City.
All services offer the option of booking coach seating, while some trains offer the option of business class and sleeper seating for extended travel.
Popular Train Routes to Saint Louis From Major US Cities
Saint Louis has many rail connections to major cities in the United States. The following are the more popular paths travelers use to reach Saint Louis:
| Origin City | Train Used | Approximate Duration | Transfer Required |
| Chicago, IL | Lincoln Service / Texas Eagle | 5.5 – 6 hours | No |
| Kansas City, MO | Missouri River Runner | 5.5 hours | No |
| Dallas, TX | Texas Eagle | 12 – 13 hours | No |
| New York, NY | Lake Shore Limited + Lincoln Service/Texas Eagle | 20 – 22 hours | Yes (Chicago) |
| Los Angeles, CA | Sunset Limited + Texas Eagle | 40+ hours | Yes (San Antonio) |
| Little Rock, AR | Texas Eagle | 7 hours | No |
| San Antonio, TX | Texas Eagle | 18 – 19 hours | No |
Chicago to Saint Louis is by far the most traveled route with several departures each day the trip takes around 5.5 hours making the route ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
Kansas City to Saint Louis Missouri River Runner is the way to go, the train tracks hug the river for most of the route.
For the Dallas and Texas routes travelers will have to take the Texas Eagle. This route offers a longer but more comfortable journey as a sleeper car is an option.
Most travelers arriving from the East or West Coasts will have to make a connecting train either in Chicago or San Antonio, Saint Louis has no direct coast to coast train service.
NYC to Saint Louis Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
It is possible to travel between New York City to Saint Louis with a train is more time-consuming since there’s not a single line that runs this way. This is what you should be aware of:
- Structure of route: Passengers generally use their route on the Lake Shore Limited from New York Penn Station up to Chicago Union Station, then change to or the Lincoln Service or Texas Eagle for the journey to Saint Louis.
- Time to travel Total travel time about 20- 22 hours, based on the wait time for connections in Chicago.
- Time of departure Departure frequency: It is a daily departure. Lake Shore Limited runs daily starting from New York, and connecting trains with Saint Louis also run daily which makes this train route simple to arrange.
- Overnight travel: Because the Lake Shore Limited departs in the afternoon before arriving in Chicago early the following morning, booking a hotel roomette or sleeper vehicle can ensure that the journey is more relaxing.
- Layovers in Chicago Layover in Chicago: Allow minimum 1.5 to 2 hours for layovers at Chicago Union Station in order to easily get connected, especially during the winter months, which are when delays become more frequent.
- Tips for booking: Make sure to book each leg of your journey on Amtrak’s website or mobile app to ensure you are protected from interruptions In the event that your first train is delayed, Amtrak will typically rebook passengers on the next connecting service for no extra cost.
The cost of tickets to travel tickets for the NYC route from NYC to Saint Louis route generally ranges between $120-$250 for one-way coach seats based on the time in advance you make reservations and the seats available. Accommodations for sleeping during the night part can cost up to $200, but they also include private dining and space.
If you’re looking for a way to take an extended excursion, this route is the chance to take in a large section across the American Midwest and Northeast in just one trip.
Saint Louis Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
Here are some first time tips for taking the train to Saint Louis:
- Make sure you plan to arrive at the train station one hour prior to departure time to allow enough time to drop off your bags.
- Amtrak permits two carry-ons and two checked bags on most of their trains (check to see if the particular train you will be traveling on offers checked baggage service)
- Download the Amtrak app to check the status of your departure train, check the gate, and to review any trip delays.
- Pack your own snacks and a water bottle with a reusable lid to save money on the café car snacks.
- Bring comfortable layers of clothing since the temperatures in the car may vary.
- It is a good idea to move your train tickets to your mobile wallet or a printed format, since the conductor does a ticket check right after the departure of the train.
- Bring a fully charged power bank to any devices that rely on battery to prevent a last minute rush to find a charging outlet, even though there are a limited number of charging outlets.
- It is important to be aware of the stops on the train since there is an announcement right before the train stops at each individual stop to let passengers off the train.
Getting a seat with a view of the Mississippi River is a good idea since Saint Louis is on the Mississippi River.
Hopefully these tips will help make your first ever Amtrak trip be easier and less stressful.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Saint Louis
Depending on your starting location, a direct train ride to Saint Louis may be possible, or you may need a connection.
Direct trains to Saint Louis include:
- Lincoln Service or Texas Eagle from Chicago
- Missouri River Runner from Kansas City
- Texas Eagle from Dallas/Fort Worth
- Texas Eagle from Little Rock
- Texas Eagle from San Antonio
Connecting trains usually have a transfer in Chicago (for east/north) or San Antonio (for west)
- New York, Boston, and Washington DC folks would take cross country trains to Chicago to connect
- Los Angeles and Phoenix folks would take the cross country train to San Antonio to connect via the Sunset Limited
- Seattle and Portland folks typically take it to Chicago to connect via the Empire Builder
Amtrak’s system automatically builds in connection times when you book and connect through a different city, so you don’t have to worry about having super tight layovers. However, it is best to avoid super tight layovers in the winter especially, because long distance trains can be super unpredictable and run late.
Business Class vs Coach on Saint Louis Trains
Traveling Amtrak to Saint Louis provides passengers with varying seating class options and prices.
Seating class options include Coach class, Business class, and First class. Each seating class choice impacts your budget and level of comfort.
Coach class seating is at the lowest price, but does include amenities. Seating options are available as either a single seat or double seating.
| Feature | Coach Class | Business Class |
| Seat width & recline | Standard, comfortable recline | Wider seats, extra recline |
| Legroom | Generous compared to airlines | Additional legroom |
| Price | Lower cost | 20-40% more than coach |
| Availability | All routes | Select routes like Lincoln Service |
| Complimentary drinks | Not included | Non-alcoholic beverages included |
| Power outlets | Available | Available at every seat |
| Quiet car option | Sometimes available | Often included |
Coach class The most popular, least expensive option is coach on routes like the Chicago to St. Louis line. Coach seats provide access to the café car and wifi, and even include reclining seats.
Business class For those traveling on the business class only available on the Lincoln service, passengers have access to more quiet space, complimentary seats and non-alcoholic beverages, making the trip a little more premium.
Along the Texas Eagle line, passengers can even opt to upgrade to a sleeper car, and enjoy their own private room with bedding and meals. This route only works for overnight trips since passengers don’t have a choice for coach options.
Saint Louis Train Station: Everything You Need to Know
Saint Louis is served by the Gateway Station, officially known as the St. Louis Gateway Transportation Center which is located at the 430th floor of South 15th Street in downtown Saint Louis. The correct and most current Amtrak station’s name for Saint Louis. However, some of the websites may use wrong station names. So make sure to check with Amtrak.com and the Amtrak app prior to your departure.
The most important information about important information about Saint Louis train station:
- Location: is Downtown Saint Louis, within walking distance to The MetroLink light rail system as well as the Greyhound bus terminal. This is because the station is part an intermodal hub for transportation.
- Services: Waiting room toilets, ticket counters vending machines and seats that are accessible.
- Parking: Short-term as well as longer-term parking are accessible near the station to those driving through prior to their departure.
- Access to public transportation Access to public transit: There is a Civic Center MetroLink station is close to Gateway Transportation Center. Gateway Transportation Center, making it convenient to access tourist attractions in downtown, including Busch Stadium, the Gateway Arch, and Busch Stadium.
- Accessibility:The station is wheelchair-friendly, with elevators, accessible bathrooms and restrooms.
- Nearby hotels: A number of hotels are located within a brief stroll or rideshare that are convenient for travellers who arrive late or leave early.
- Baggage services: The checked baggage services are available on certain trains. Check your eligibility at the time of making your reservation.
As the station is connected directly with MetroLink and bus routes and bus services, passengers who arrive at the station are able to travel to hotels, downtown offices or other tourist destinations without the need for an automobile rental.
How to Book Train Tickets to Saint Louis: Step-by-Step Guide
The process of booking a train ticket for Saint Louis is a simple procedure. The steps to follow are:
- Go to Amtrak’s official site or mobile app. Amtrak.com or download the Amtrak mobile application to start your lookup.
- Input your travel information – Indicate your destination city, Saint Louis as your destination, and the desired travel dates.
- Find out about available trains. Review choices including Lincoln Service, Texas Eagle and Missouri River Runner along with the departure time and price.
- Select your class of service -n business class, coach or sleeper rooms depending on the route you are traveling.
- Include passenger information – enter names, along with any pertinent discounts, like military, senior, or student.
- Pick your seat preference – If available, choose either an aisle or window seating option based on your preferences.
- Review your itinerary -and double-check dates time, dates, connections and the amount of fare prior towards payment.
- Secure and complete payment. with a debit or credit card, or an Amtrak Gift card.
- Keep your confirmation and download your electronic ticket to the Amtrak app, or make a printed copy to use for taking a train.
- Set travel alerts to be activated – Allow notifications on the Amtrak application to get live updates about delays or modifications to the platform.
A minimum of two weeks ahead generally guarantees cheaper prices, although the last minute tickets can be found on most routes that connect from Saint Louis.
Saint Louis Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Tickets on trains going to Saint Louis have varying prices as a result of the distance traveled, the type of train, the class of service, and how early you book the tickets.
| Route | Estimated Coach Fare (One-Way) | Estimated Business/Sleeper Fare |
| Chicago to Saint Louis | $30 – $60 | $50 – $90 (business class) |
| Kansas City to Saint Louis | $30 – $55 | Not applicable |
| Dallas to Saint Louis | $70 – $130 | $200+ (sleeper) |
| New York to Saint Louis | $120 – $250 | $300+ (sleeper) |
Strategies to save the cost of train tickets for Saint Louis:
- Get your tickets early. Fares rise with the time until departure so booking a couple of weeks before can often help save between 20 and 30 percent.
- On weekdays, Wednesday and Tuesday departures are generally cheaper than weekends.
- Utilize Amtrak guest rewards points frequent travelers can use points for discounted or free tickets.
- Look for discount coupons – Amtrak provides discounted fares to senior citizens, students, military members, as well as children.
- Beware of travel during peak holidays The cost of travel increases significantly during the major holidays, like Christmas and Thanksgiving.
- Subscribe to Amtrak emails – Occasionally special fares are delivered directly to the subscribers.
- Be aware of train times that are off peak Consider early morning or late night departures are usually cheaper than midday trains.
- Bundle tickets connecting each other Book your whole itinerary all in one go may be less expensive than arranging each trip individually.
When you are planning ahead and being open to changes in travel times the majority of travelers are able to get significant savings on airfares from Saint Louis.
Best Time to Visit Saint Louis by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
pleasant weather, lower prices, or avoiding crowds.
Spring
The Midwest is great for train travel in Spring because of the mild temperatures and the coastal views. Spring is also the time to get discounted tickets to the Gateway Arch grounds.
Summer
You have to expect to be on a crowded train and pay higher ticket prices in the beginning of Summer. After the 4th of July, many people return to work and things begin to calm down. Saint Louis has a lot going on in the Summer with outdoor activities, festivals and baseball games.
Fall
Scenery begins to change in the Fall and along with the lower ticket prices, it makes Fall a good time to take the train to see the scenic countryside through Missouri and Illinois.
Winter
Take advantage of the lowest prices, but expect potentially longer travel times due to winter weather. The longer the route, the Texas Eagle, has always had a higher chance of delays caused by bad weather.
| Season | Weather | Ticket Prices | Crowd Levels |
| Spring | Mild | Moderate | Moderate |
| Summer | Warm/Hot | Higher | High |
| Fall | Cool & Pleasant | Moderate | Moderate |
| Winter | Cold | Lowest | Low |
Of all the seasons train travel to Saint Louis presents the best balance of pricing, comfort, and scenery, fall is arguably the best choice.
Train vs Bus vs Car to Saint Louis: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
Depending on your budget, schedule, and comfort, you have options of train, bus, and car travel to Saint Louis.
| Factor | Train | Bus | Car |
| Comfort | High (recline, legroom) | Moderate | Depends on driver fatigue |
| Cost | Moderate | Lowest | Variable (gas, tolls) |
| Travel Time | Moderate | Similar to car, sometimes longer | Fastest for short distances |
| Scenery | Excellent | Limited | Good, but requires focus on driving |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Fixed schedule | Full flexibility |
| Downtown Access | Yes, direct | Yes, direct | Requires parking |
| Work/Relax Onboard | Yes | Limited | No (if driving) |
Train travelFor people wanting to avoid long drives and airport lines while enjoying scenery, train travel is the way to go. Traveling by train is also more convenient because it’s downtown-to-downtown.
Bus travelIf you want to save money on your trip and don’t mind a less convenient and longer travel time, travel by bus is the way to go. The trade off on longer trips is less comfort.
Car travel The most flexible means of travel is (almost) always by car. Traveling by car is the fastest for distances like Kansas City to St. Louis, but there is also a cost and a burden of driving long distances that result in fatigue.
For most people making trips over 200 miles, the train is the most cost effective and convenient way to travel comfortably to St. Louis.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the train ride from Chicago to St. Louis?
To get there by rail, the journey will take you approximately 5 and a half to 6 hours on either the Lincoln Service or the Texas Eagle.
2. Is there a straight rail route to St. Louis from New York?
There isn’t. Passengers would have to take the Lake Shore Limited to Chicago and then take a connecting rail service.
3. What is the St. Louis train station called?
It’s actually called the St. Louis Gateway Transportation Center and can be found in downtown St. Louis.
4. What is the cost of a train ticket to St. Louis?
Tickets can be as inexpensive as about $30 with shorter regional trips or go up to $250 and more with longer trips to New York or other cities.
5. Does Amtrak have service on trains going to St. Louis?
Yes, most Amtrak trains that stop in St. Louis, have Wi-Fi services and charge outlets.
6. Can I bring luggage on the train going to St. Louis?
Yes, you can bring 2 luggage bags on the train for free, as long as they are within the size and weight limit, as well as bringing 2 larger checked bags.
7. Are there sleeper cars for the train to St. Louis?
Yes, on longer routes like the Texas Eagle.
8. How long should I arrive before my train to St. Louis?
You need at least 30 or 45 minutes to spare to board the train in case you are checking bags.
9. What is the least expensive time to purchase a train to St. Louis?
Booking your train tickets 2 or 3 weeks in advance and traveling on week days gives you the lowest fares.
10. Is the Saint Louis train station accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the station provides access to the MetroLink light rail system.