How to Travel from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City
Discover the best travel routes, tips, and stay options for your trip from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City.
Introduction
Planning a trip from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City? Whether you are traveling for business, family visits, or a vacation, knowing your options can make your journey smoother. I will guide you through the best ways to travel between these two cities, including driving routes, flights, and stops along the way.
We will also explore places to stay and things to do in Kansas City once you arrive. This article will help you plan your trip with confidence and ease.
Distance and Travel Overview
The distance between North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Kansas City, Missouri, is about 850 miles by road. Depending on your mode of travel, the journey can take anywhere from 12 to 15 hours or more.
Here are the main travel options:
Driving by car
Flying with connecting flights
Taking a bus or train (less common and longer)
Each choice has its pros and cons depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.
Driving from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City
If you enjoy road trips, driving is a great way to see the country at your own pace. The drive covers around 850 miles and usually takes about 13 to 15 hours without long stops.
Here’s a common driving route:
Start on US-17 N from North Myrtle Beach
Merge onto I-95 N toward Florence
Take I-20 W near Florence toward Columbia
Continue on I-20 W to I-57 N near Jackson, Mississippi
Follow I-57 N to I-70 W near St. Louis
Take I-70 W directly into Kansas City
Tips for driving:
Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours to stretch and refuel
Consider overnight stops in cities like Columbia, MO, or Memphis, TN
Check traffic and weather conditions before you leave
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time navigation
Flying from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City
Flying is the fastest way to travel between these cities, but there are no direct flights. You will need at least one connection, usually in a major hub like Charlotte, Atlanta, or Chicago.
Here’s what to expect:
Depart from Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), about 15 minutes from North Myrtle Beach
Connect through airports such as Charlotte Douglas (CLT), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL), or Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
Arrive at Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
Flight time is usually around 4 to 6 hours including layovers.
Booking tips:
Book flights early to get better prices
Use fare comparison sites like Kayak or Google Flights
Check baggage policies for connecting airlines
Consider flexible tickets in case of delays
Bus and Train Options
Traveling by bus or train is possible but less convenient for this route. It can take over 24 hours and may require multiple transfers.
Bus travel:
Greyhound offers routes from Myrtle Beach to Kansas City with transfers in cities like Atlanta or Nashville
Expect long travel times and limited schedules
Train travel:
Amtrak does not have a direct train from Myrtle Beach, so you would need to travel first to a nearby Amtrak station like Florence, SC
From there, you can take trains to Chicago or St. Louis, then connect to Kansas City
This option is scenic but slow and requires careful planning
Where to Stay in Kansas City
Once you arrive in Kansas City, you’ll find many hotel options to suit your needs. Whether you want to stay downtown near attractions or in quieter neighborhoods, here are some top picks:
Downtown Kansas City: Stay near the Power & Light District for nightlife and dining. Hotels like the 21c Museum Hotel and the Kansas City Marriott Downtown are popular.
Crown Center: Close to Union Station and the National WWI Museum. The Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center is a good choice.
Country Club Plaza: A shopping and dining district with Spanish-style architecture. The Fontaine or the Westin Kansas City at Crown Center offer comfort.
Budget options: Chains like Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, and La Quinta Inn provide affordable stays with good amenities.
Booking tips:
Book early during events like the American Royal or Chiefs games
Check for free parking if you have a rental car
Look for hotels with breakfast included for convenience
Things to Do in Kansas City
Kansas City is known for its jazz heritage, barbecue, and vibrant arts scene. Here are some must-see attractions:
National WWI Museum and Memorial: Learn about World War I history with impressive exhibits and views from the Liberty Memorial tower.
Kansas City Zoo: Great for families, with over 1,700 animals and interactive exhibits.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Free admission and a beautiful sculpture park make this a top cultural spot.
Country Club Plaza: Enjoy shopping, dining, and Spanish-inspired architecture.
BBQ Restaurants: Try famous spots like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Gates Bar-B-Q, or Arthur Bryant’s.
Jazz District: Visit the historic 18th & Vine district for live jazz and the American Jazz Museum.
Travel Tips for Your Trip
To make your trip from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City smooth, keep these tips in mind:
Check weather forecasts for both cities before traveling
Pack layers as Midwest weather can be unpredictable
Use travel apps for flight updates and navigation
Reserve accommodations early, especially during busy seasons
Consider travel insurance for longer trips
Plan your route and stops if driving to avoid fatigue
Conclusion
Traveling from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City offers several options depending on your time and budget. Driving lets you explore the country at your own pace, while flying saves time with a few connections. Bus and train travel are possible but less practical for most travelers.
Once in Kansas City, you’ll find plenty of hotels and attractions to enjoy. With good planning, your trip can be comfortable and fun. Use this guide to choose the best route and prepare for a great visit to the Heartland.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City?
The drive usually takes about 13 to 15 hours, covering roughly 850 miles. Time depends on traffic and stops along the way.
Are there direct flights from North Myrtle Beach to Kansas City?
No, there are no direct flights. You will need to connect through hubs like Charlotte, Atlanta, or Chicago.
What is the best city to stop overnight when driving?
Columbia, Missouri, or Memphis, Tennessee, are good overnight stops with hotels and dining options.
What are some popular hotels in Kansas City?
Popular hotels include 21c Museum Hotel, Sheraton Kansas City at Crown Center, and the Fontaine at Country Club Plaza.
Is public transportation a good option for this trip?
Bus and train options exist but are slower and less convenient than driving or flying for this route.