Kirksville

When planning a trip to Kirksville, it is worth noting that this welcoming university town in the central part of the USA is located away from noisy metropolises. You can get here by combining a flight to a regional hub with a car journey, or by using rail connections via neighbouring stations. Travelling along the roads of Missouri will treat you to views of picturesque plains and the opportunity to experience the true spirit of the American heartland.

Although the city is served by the small Kirksville Regional Airport (IRK), which handles smaller aircraft, most tourists prefer to fly into larger hubs. The nearest convenient option is the airport in the city of Quincy (UIN), located at a distance of 104 km, from where it is easy to continue the journey by land.

For those requiring a wider choice of airlines, the airport in the city of Des Moines (DSM), located 178 km from the destination, is an excellent fit. These airports are well connected to the road network, allowing you to reach the final point of your route effortlessly in a rented car.

Despite the absence of a station directly in the city of Kirksville, rail travel is quite popular here thanks to the station in the neighbouring town of La Plata. It is located just 20–25 km to the south and serves the famous Southwest Chief train, which runs between Chicago and Los Angeles.

Alternatively, you can consider the station in the city of Quincy, however, it is situated significantly further away — at 104 km. Therefore, for most travellers, arriving in La Plata followed by a short transfer by taxi remains the most logical and comfortable option.

At the moment, direct bus services directly to Kirksville may be irregular or absent from the schedules of major carriers. The optimal solution is often a bus trip to the region's major transport hubs, such as Des Moines or Quincy.

Having covered the main distance on a comfortable intercity coach, tourists usually travel the remaining part of the way (from 100 to 180 km) in a rented car. It is recommended to check the current routes with local operators in advance before planning your trip.

Travelling by car is one of the most convenient ways to reach the location while enjoying the landscapes of the Midwest. The fastest route runs from the city of Quincy: the distance is about 124 km, which will take the driver approximately 1.4 hours.

Travellers departing from the city of Des Moines will have to cover 215 km, spending about 2.6 hours on the road. A route is also available from the city of Warrensburg with a length of 243 km (approximately 2.8 hours), which passes along high-quality and calm highways.

To ensure your visit to the city of Kirksville goes smoothly and leaves only positive emotions, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations. Given the specifics of a small American town, these tips will help you better plan your trip.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is distinctly continental. In summer, you should bring light clothing and sunglasses, while in winter, a warm jacket, a hat, and reliable footwear are essential due to possible snowfall and winds.
2. Transport. Public transport is limited. The most reliable method of movement is a rented car, which will ensure you have complete freedom of action.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but it is useful to have some cash in small denominations for tips and purchases at farmers' markets.
4. Health and Safety. The city is peaceful, but medical insurance is mandatory, as healthcare services in the USA are very expensive. In emergencies, call 911.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Locals are friendly, but knowledge of other languages is rare, so basic English is necessary.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to be polite and respect personal space. Leaving a tip of 15–20% in cafes and taxis is considered an obligatory rule of good manners.
7. What to Avoid. Strictly observe the speed limits: local police closely monitor traffic violations. Also, do not walk on private property without an invitation.
8. Additional Tip. Do not miss the opportunity to visit Thousand Hills State Park. It is an ideal place for hiking, fishing, and family picnics in nature, just a few minutes from the city.

By following these simple rules, you will be able to avoid everyday difficulties and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of hospitable Missouri.