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Des Moines, IA, USA to Ames, IA, USA from $6: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Des Moines, United States
to
Ames, United States

How to Get from Des Moines to Ames: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$6 - OtherBest price
56 kmDistance
35m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Ames with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$19-45
Recommended
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$6-10
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 56 km
Duration: 35m

See more options

Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$80-100

Des Moines - Ames operators

Explore transport companies operating between Des Moines and Ames, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Ames, IA

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$19-45
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Ames, IA

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$23-35
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 515-289-9800

Taxi from Des Moines, IA to Ames, IA

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$80-100
Contact phone
+1 515-243-1111

Taxi from Des Moines, IA to Ames, IA

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$80-100

Des Moines to Ames: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Des Moines and Ames offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Start your journey from Des Moines to Ames a short 35-mile drive filled with scenic views and open roads. Enjoy the smooth ride that takes approximately 37 minutes. 💰 The cost of this convenient trip by car ranges from $6 to $10, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the charming town of Ames from Des Moines.
Average price
$6 - $10
🚆 The train journey from Des Moines to Ames is a convenient and quick option, taking approximately 40 minutes to cover the 36.9-mile distance. 🚌 The first step of the trip involves taking a bus towards Minneapolis, with a duration of about 40 minutes. The bus operated by Jefferson Lines departs from Des Moines and arrives in Ames.
🚌 The journey from Des Moines to Ames by bus is convenient and efficient, with services departing every four hours and operating daily. The trip typically takes around 35 minutes. 🛣️ Covering a distance of approximately 36.9 miles, travelers can expect a smooth ride from Des Moines to Ames on the Jefferson Lines bus service. The prices for this route range from $19 to $45, offering affordability for all.
Departure Point
Des Moines, IA station
Arrival Point
Ames, IA station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Des Moines to Ames.

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The distance between Des Moines and Ames is approximately 48.3 km. The road distance is slightly longer at 56.2 km. By car, it typically takes about 45 minutes to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, taking a bus usually takes around 1 hour to reach Ames from Des Moines.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Des Moines to Ames would be to either drive or take a bus. Driving is the cheapest option, with costs ranging from $6 to $10, and takes approximately 37 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus is the quickest option, with a travel time of 35 minutes, but costs can range from $19 to $45.
The prices of a bus ticket from Ames to Des Moines vary between $19 and $45.
To travel from Des Moines to Ames without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 56.3 km, and it takes approximately 37 minutes to drive from Des Moines to Ames. The cost of this journey by car typically ranges from $6 to $10, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
The best way to travel from Des Moines to Ames without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey typically takes around 35 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $19 to $45.
Yes, there is a direct link between Des Moines and Ames. Jefferson Lines operates regular bus services between the two cities, with departures every four hours. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes.
There are several options for accommodation near Ames. With over 39 hotels available, there is a wide range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets. Prices start at $54 per night, offering affordable options for travelers.
Yes, you can definitely get from Des Moines to Ames by bicycle. The distance between the two cities is , and it takes about 2 hours to reach Ames from Des Moines by bike.