Road Trippin’: The Time It Takes to Drive from Austin, Texas to Kansas City, Missouri
Hit the open road and discover America’s heartland! Plan your next adventure to the Midwest and explore the cultural, culinary, and natural wonders Kansas City has to offer. But before you pack up and go, take a glance at your roadmap. Here’s everything you need to know about the distance, best routes, traffic patterns, and travel time from Austin, Texas to Kansas City, Missouri.
The Fastest and Slowest Routes
The distance from Austin to Kansas City is approximately 693 miles, and the drive takes approximately 11 hours. But don't jump behind the wheel just yet -- taking the best route and avoiding busy periods can save you a substantial amount of time. There are two main routes to reach Kansas City from Austin, and the first route is the fastest.
The fastest route: Take I-35 N from Austin, and stay on the same road all the way to Kansas City. This route crosses through Oklahoma City, then turns north through Wichita, Kansas. This route can take anywhere from 9 hours to 11 hours, depending on traffic.
The slowest route: Take US-281 N from Austin through beautiful Texas Hill Country then through Wichita Falls. You will pass through small towns and cities in Texas and Oklahoma before you reach Kansas City. This route can take anywhere from 13 to 15 hours, depending on traffic.
Travel Time Based on Traffic
There is a high chance of traffic in downtown Austin on a weekday morning, so it's best to avoid this period to reduce travel time. If you leave Austin after rush hour, the traffic will be less hectic. The same can be said for arriving in Kansas City. If you can avoid driving into its downtown area during peak times, then it would shave some time off your trip.
Taking into account traffic, a trip from Austin to Kansas City can take anywhere from 10 hours to 17 hours, depending on the route you choose and the traffic patterns. So, if you are planning a leisurely road trip and you are not in a hurry to see the city, consider taking the slowest route. It offers picturesque sights and an opportunity to stop at Texas and Oklahoma attractions.
If you are in a hurry and want to get to Kansas City quickly, take the fastest route. Keep in mind, however, that this route may be busier and more stressful than the scenic route. Additionally, if you're taking off in the summer months, it's a good idea to check weather advisories as thunderstorms and hail may be common in this area.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer to hit the gas and zoom right to Kansas City or take it easy and enjoy the sights, there’s no wrong way to get there. With a better understanding of the various routes, travel time based on traffic patterns, and estimated drive times, you can better plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip. Happy driving!