Des Moines, IA, USA to Saint Louis, MO, USA from $47: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Des Moines to Saint Louis: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$47 - Bus, TrainBest price
443 kmDistance
2h 47m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Saint Louis 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.
Des Moines - Saint Louis operators
Explore transport companies operating between Des Moines and Saint Louis, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to St. Louis (STL)
Average Duration
2h 47mEstimated price
$170-393Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Kansas City to St. Louis
Average Duration
5h 40mEstimated price
$1705-1703Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898Website
jeffersonlines.com
Bus from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO
Average Duration
8h 5mEstimated price
0-0Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station
Average Duration
3h 55mEstimated price
$3938-3930Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618Website
burlingtontrailways.com
Bus from Des Moines, IA to Burlington, IA
Average Duration
Estimated price
$1708-60Other from Des Moines to St. Louis
Average Duration
6h 24mEstimated price
$60-1700Des Moines to Saint Louis: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Des Moines and Saint Louis 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.
🚗 Hit the road and embark on a scenic journey from Des Moines to St. Louis - spanning a driving distance of 350 miles that can be covered in approximately 6 hours and 24 minutes.
💰 With prices ranging from $60 to $95 for the trip by car, you can choose the option that best fits your budget. Factor in fuel costs, possible tolls, and any pit stops you plan to make for a comfortable and enjoyable drive.
Average price
$60 - $95
🛫 Flying from Des Moines to Saint Louis is quick and convenient with a direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 5 minutes with Southwest Airlines.
✈️ The flight provides a comfortable journey, covering the distance of 2 hours and 47 minutes, allowing travelers to reach Saint Louis with ease and efficiency.
💸 Prices for flights between Saint Louis and Des Moines typically range from $170 to $393, providing options to suit different budgets for this smooth and efficient trip by air.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
St. Louis Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight from Des Moines to St. Louis, consider flying with Southwest Airlines, as they often provide the most direct routing options and can save you time on layovers.
• Upon your arrival at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, expect an easy navigation through the airport as it offers clear signage; be sure to check the airport map at flystl.com for quick access to baggage claim and ground transportation.
• Taxi fares from St. Louis Lambert Airport to downtown St. Louis typically range from $35 to $50, making it a relatively affordable option; consider using local transportation apps like Uber or Lyft for possibly lower rates and convenience.
🚌 Starting from Des Moines your bus journey to Saint Louis will involve a transfer in Kansas City and take approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes. Jefferson Lines operates the service departing from Des Moines.
🛣️ The total distance of the route from Des Moines to St. Louis is 450 miles, with the total travel time being 8 hours and 5 minutes. The prices for this bus trip can vary between $64-$158.
🌆 The final leg of your trip will be from Kansas City to St. Louis via Greyhound, with a 4-hour and 15-minute journey. Make sure to check the specific departure times and details of the buses for a smooth travel experience.
Departure Point
Des Moines, IA station
Arrival Point
St Louis Bus Station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Des Moines to Saint Louis.
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The distance between Des Moines and Saint Louis is approximately 442.6 km by plane, while the road distance is 562.9 km. Traveling by plane typically takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes. Alternatively, taking a night bus followed by a train can take around 10 hours and 25 minutes. Driving by car usually takes about 6 hours and 24 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 8 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Des Moines to Saint Louis is to drive, which takes around 6 hours and 24 minutes. This option can cost between $60 and $95, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by flying, which takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes. The cost for this option ranges from $170 to $400, depending on factors such as the airline and ticket availability.
The prices for a bus ticket between Des Moines and Saint Louis range from $64 to $158.
To travel from Des Moines to Saint Louis without using public transportation, your best option would be to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 563.3 km, and it would take around 6 hours and 24 minutes to drive, depending on traffic and your route. The cost of driving can vary, but you can expect to spend around $60 to $95 on fuel for this trip.
If you're looking to travel from Des Moines to Saint Louis without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Kansas City. The journey takes about 8 hours and 5 minutes and can cost anywhere between $60 to $160.
Yes, there is a indirect link between Des Moines and Saint Louis. There are bus services available that require a transfer at the Kansas City Bus Station, with a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes. The services are operated by Jefferson Lines and Greyhound USA.
The flight duration between Des Moines and Saint Louis is typically around 1 hour and 5 minutes for a direct flight. However, prices for this flight route can range from $170 to $393, depending on the airline and booking time.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Saint Louis. With over 326 hotels to choose from, visitors will have no trouble finding a place to stay that suits their preferences and budget. Prices start at $41 per night, offering a range of affordable options for travelers.