Transportation between La Plata & Mexico

Question

I’m having a lot of trouble finding transportation from the Amtrak station in La Plata to and from Mexico, Missouri. Even something to and from Kirkwood would be very helpful. Any suggestions?

Answer

La Plata, Missouri, is a small town served by Amtrak’s Texas Eagle line, but ground transportation options to nearby towns like Mexico, Missouri, or Kirkwood are limited. Because public transit is minimal in this area, planning ahead is essential.

Here are the main transportation options:

Taxi services: La Plata has limited local taxi service, but most companies operate on-call and may require advance notice. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm availability and pricing for a ride to Mexico (about 25 miles south) or to Kirkwood (about 80 miles southeast).
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft availability in La Plata is extremely limited. While you may occasionally find a driver, it is not reliable for planning trips to Mexico or Kirkwood.
Car rentals: Renting a car is likely the most flexible option. Rental services are typically available in larger nearby cities, such as Columbia or St. Louis. If you can arrange to pick up a car at the La Plata Amtrak station (with advance notice from a rental company), it will give you complete flexibility for travel between La Plata, Mexico, and Kirkwood.
Private shuttle or local transportation services: Some regional shuttle or private transportation companies operate in Northeast Missouri. While not frequently advertised online, local inquiries or contacting hotels in Mexico or Columbia may provide options for pre-arranged pick-ups and drop-offs.

Additional tips:

Coordinate your Amtrak arrival and departure times with any pre-arranged transportation to avoid long waits.
If renting a car, consider drop-off locations in Mexico or St. Louis depending on your onward travel plans.
For those without a car, you may need to plan rides with friends, family, or local contacts, as public transit options are extremely limited outside Columbia or St. Louis.
Check with your Amtrak station for any local shuttle or cab recommendations—they may have updated contacts for reliable drivers who frequently meet trains.

In summary, transportation from La Plata to Mexico or Kirkwood is challenging due to the rural setting and limited public transit. Renting a car or arranging a private shuttle in advance is generally the most reliable approach. Taxis may work if booked ahead, while rideshare services are not dependable in this area.