Detroit, MI, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $77: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$77 - Train, night busBest price

968 kmDistance

4h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit to Des Moines 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.

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Detroit - Des Moines operators

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

Plane

Website

delta.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration

1h 57m

Estimated price

$5731-5732

Website

aa.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration

4h 30m

Estimated price

$5735-5736

Website

united.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration

4h 29m

Estimated price

$5739-5738

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Dearborn to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

5h 11m

Estimated price

$770-1285

Train from Chicago Union Station to Galesburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration

2h 38m

Estimated price

$2520-2521

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 5m

Estimated price

$776-2142

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration

15h 10m

Estimated price

$92-219

Contact phone

1(800) 992-4618

Website

burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2140-2521

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

Traveling between Detroit and Des Moines 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.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from the bustling city of Detroit to the charming capital of Iowa, Des Moines. With a driving distance of 601 miles, get ready for a scenic journey through the heart of the Midwest. 💰 Explore cost-effective options for the journey, as prices to travel from Detroit to Des Moines by car can range from $100 to $160. Plan ahead and consider factors like gas, snacks, and potential pit stops along the way to make the most of your budget. 🛣️ Enjoy a leisurely 9-hour and 52-minute drive filled with changing landscapes, small-town charm, and the joy of the open road as you make your way from Detroit to Des Moines your favorite road trip playlist and savor the experience of exploring the beauty of the Midwest firsthand.

Average price

$100 - $160

🛫 Experience a convenient and efficient journey with a quick direct flight from Detroit Airport to Des Moines Airport, taking only 1 hour and 57 minutes. Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines provide flight options for this route. 🛄 Covering a distance of 4 hours and 3 minutes, flying from Detroit to Des Moines offers a smooth and timely travel experience. Enjoy the comfort and amenities of the flight while making your way to your destination in Iowa's capital city. 💰 The cost of flights between Detroit and Des Moines can range from $128 to $573, offering flexibility based on your budget and preferences.

Departure Point

Detroit Airport

Arrival Point

Des Moines Airport

🌆 The journey on the bus, operated by Greyhound USA and Burlington Trailways, takes approximately 15 hours and 10 minutes including transfers. 💰 The prices for a bus trip between Detroit and Des Moines range from $92 to $219, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two cities in the United States.

Departure Point

Detroit Bus Station

Arrival Point

Des Moines, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Detroit and Des Moines is approximately 881.9 km by road and 968.0 km by car. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 14 hours and 39 minutes to travel by train and night bus, 4 hours and 5 minutes by plane, 9 hours and 52 minutes by car, and 15 hours and 10 minutes by bus.

The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Detroit to Des Moines is by bus, specifically taking the route via Ann Arbor. This option can cost between $90 to $270 and takes approximately 16 hours and 10 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to reach Des Moines is by flying. This option takes only 4 hours and 5 minutes but can cost between $160 to $650.

The prices for a bus ticket between Detroit and Des Moines range from $90 to $284.

To travel from Detroit to Des Moines without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 967.2 km. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost of the trip by car typically ranges from $100 to $160, depending on fuel prices and tolls.

The best way to travel from Detroit to Des Moines without a car is by taking a train and bus. This journey takes approximately 15 hours and 3 minutes. The cost for this option ranges from $75 to $260. Alternatively, you can also consider flying, which takes around 4 hours and 5 minutes.

No, there is no direct link between Detroit and Des Moines. However, there are options for travel. Traveling by train and night bus takes approximately 14 hours and 39 minutes. Traveling by plane is the fastest option, with a travel time of 4 hours and 5 minutes. If driving, it takes approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes. Taking the bus is the longest option, with a travel time of 15 hours and 10 minutes, including transfers.

The flight duration between Detroit and Des Moines typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket between these two cities can range from $168 to $623, depending on factors such as the time of booking and the airline.

There are plenty of accommodation options available in Des Moines. With over 202 hotels to choose from, visitors are sure to find something suitable for their needs. Prices start at just $36 per night, making it affordable for all budgets.