Hermann, Missouri, is a hidden gem that feels plucked straight from the German Rhineland and dropped onto the banks of the Missouri River. Famous for its wineries, historic architecture, and annual Oktoberfest, this charming town offers a perfect getaway.
While driving is always an option, the most scenic and relaxing way to arrive is often by train. The Hermann Amtrak station (HEM) serves as a vital artery, linking this historic town to Missouri’s major metropolises.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about traveling to Hermann via Amtrak, including detailed routes, distances, and essential airport connections.
1. The Hermann Amtrak Station (HEM)
The Hermann station (HEM) is served exclusively by the Missouri River Runner line. Compared to larger city stations, HEM is small but highly functional, offering a classic small-town welcome.
Station Logistics
- Location: 200 East 1st Street, near the riverfront. It is centrally located, making it an easy walk or quick shuttle ride to most major hotels, B&Bs, and wineries.
- Services: The station is an unstaffed “shelter/platform stop.” This means you must have your ticket purchased beforehand (online or via the Amtrak app) and services are limited to basic necessities. There is no baggage check.
- Accessibility: The platform is accessible, but travelers requiring assistance should notify Amtrak when booking.
2. Navigating the Missouri River Runner
The Missouri River Runner route runs daily, connecting the state’s two largest cities: St. Louis (Eastbound) and Kansas City (Westbound). Hermann sits almost perfectly positioned in the heart of this route.
This route is renowned for its scenic views, tracing the path of the historic Missouri River, often called the “Katy Trail” parallel route.
Route Highlights
| Direction | Major Destination | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Eastbound | St. Louis (STL) | Gateway Arch, major museums, connection hub. |
| Westbound | Kansas City (KCY) | BBQ, Jazz District, Union Station, connection hub. |
3. Hermann (HEM) Route Distances and Stops
To help you plan your journey, the table below provides the major stops along the Missouri River Runner route and the approximate mileage measurement from St. Louis Gateway Station (STL).
| Station Name (Code) | Direction from Hermann | Approx. Total Mileage from St. Louis | Approx. Distance from Hermann (HEM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis (STL) | East | 0 miles | 82 miles |
| Kirkwood (KRK) | East | 13 miles | 69 miles |
| Washington (WSH) | East | 59 miles | 23 miles |
| Hermann (HEM) | — | 82 miles | — |
| Jefferson City (JEF) | West | 127 miles | 45 miles |
| Sedalia (SED) | West | 185 miles | 103 miles |
| Lee’s Summit (LEE) | West | 258 miles | 176 miles |
| Independence (IDP) | West | 275 miles | 193 miles |
| Kansas City (KCY) | West | 289 miles | 207 miles |
Note: Distances are approximate railway miles and schedules can vary. Always check the official Amtrak website for current scheduling and travel times.
4. Connecting to Hermann: Operational Airports
Flying into Missouri and then connecting to the train is a popular option, especially for travelers coming from outside the Midwest. The Missouri River Runner route directly serves stations easily reached from the state’s two primary international airports.
1. Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL)
- Airport Code: STL
- Connection Point: St. Louis Gateway Station (STL)
- Steps to Connect: From the airport, take the St. Louis MetroLink light rail directly to the downtown St. Louis Gateway station (Union Station is the stop just before Gateway). From there, you board the Missouri River Runner westbound to Hermann (HEM).
- Estimated Train Travel Time to HEM: ~2 hours.
2. Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
- Airport Code: MCI
- Connection Point: Kansas City Union Station (KCY)
- Steps to Connect: MCI does not have direct rail links. You will need to use a shuttle, taxi, or ride-share service to travel the approximately 20 miles from the airport to the historic Kansas City Union Station. From KCY, you board the Missouri River Runner eastbound to Hermann (HEM).
- Estimated Train Travel Time to HEM: ~3.5 to 4 hours.
5. Essential Tips for Traveling to Hermann (HEM)
Since the Hermann station is unstaffed, a little extra preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a smooth trip.
Practical Travel Checklist
- Book in Advance: Though the Missouri River Runner rarely sells out, booking tickets well ahead of time usually secures the best price.
- Use the App: Download the official Amtrak application. This is essential for digital ticketing, checking real-time train status updates, and tracking potential delays (which are common on passenger lines sharing freight tracks).
- Check Status Before Leaving: Train times can shift. Check the exact arrival time for your specific train number before heading to the station, especially if traveling Westbound from Jefferson City or Sedalia.
- Arrive Promptly: While you don’t need to be there an hour early, arrive at least 20 minutes before departure time to ensure you are on the platform when the crew arrives.
- Be Ready for Boarding: Have your ticket ready. The train usually stops for only a couple of minutes at the unstaffed HEM platform.
- Pack Lightly: Since there is no checked baggage service at HEM, plan to carry all your luggage onto the train yourself.
Arriving in Wine Country
The journey to Hermann via Amtrak is more than just transportation—it’s part of the experience. As you step off the train at HEM, you’ll be greeted by the scent of the river and the historic charm of this unique Missouri town. Whether you’re coming from the bustling streets of St. Louis or the vibrant energy of Kansas City, the train offers a perfect decompression period before you dive into Hermann’s wineries and German heritage.
Enjoy the ride!
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