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Des Moines, IA, USA to Decorah, IA, USA from $35: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Des Moines, United States of America
to
Decorah, United States of America

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

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$35 - OtherBest price
243 kmDistance
3h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Decorah 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
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
7h  30m
Estimated price
$62-111
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$53-309
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 243 km
Duration: 3h 45m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$35-55
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Traveling From Des Moines to Decorah

Traveling from Des Moines to Decorah offers a vibrant contrast, as you leave behind the urban landscape of Iowa's capital for the serene, natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Decorah.

Best Neighbourhoods in Decorah

Decorah features charming neighborhoods that highlight Iowa's natural beauty and history.

Downtown Decorah
• Home to local shops and eateries.
• Hosts vibrant festivals year-round.
Decorah Fish Hatchery Area
• Great for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
• Offers walking trails and scenic views.
Pioneer Park
• Known for its historic landmarks and relaxing green spaces.
• A perfect spot for picnics and community events.

Best Times To Visit Decorah's Attractions

Timing your visits to Decorah's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum
Visit on weekdays during spring for fewer crowds and engaging exhibits.
Dunning's Spring Park
Early mornings in summer provide tranquility and stunning natural scenery.
Decorah's Downtown Shopping District
Explore during off-peak hours, like late afternoons on weekdays, for a leisurely stroll.

Decorah Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Decorah experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable weather and vibrant scenery. The climate can influence your travel plans, so packing accordingly ensures an enjoyable experience, whether you're hiking in lush greenery or attending winter festivities.

Dining Recommendation in Decorah

A visit to Decorah isn’t complete without trying the farm-to-table offerings at La Rana Bistro, where the focus is on local ingredients and a cozy, rustic atmosphere that contrasts with the more urban dining scene of Des Moines. The menu features a blend of flavors, with dishes like the wild mushroom risotto showcasing seasonal produce and artisanal craftsmanship that invites you to savor the region's culinary essence.

Des Moines - Decorah operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Waterloo, IA

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$624-625
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Des Moines Airport (DSM) to Rochester Airport (RST)

Average Duration
4h 46m
Estimated price
$620-621
Website
delta.com

Plane from Des Moines Airport (DSM) to Rochester Airport (RST)

Average Duration
5h 3m
Estimated price
$622-623
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Other from Des Moines, IA to Decorah, IA

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$35-55

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

Traveling between Des Moines and Decorah 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.

🚗 Experience a scenic road trip from Des Moines to Decorah, covering a distance of 203 miles. The approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes drive will take you through charming Iowa landscapes and quaint towns. 💸 Plan your budget accordingly as the cost of the journey can range between $35 to $55 for fuel and other expenses. Make sure to factor in stops for snacks or meals along the way to break up the drive and explore the local flavors.
Average price
$35 - $55
🛫 Traveling from Des Moines to Decorah by plane involves taking a flight with one stopover at Rochester Airport. The quickest route typically lasts around 3 hours and 46 minutes.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Rochester Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 46m and has one stopover

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Des Moines and Decorah is approximately 151 miles by air. If traveling by road, the distance is around 203 miles. By taking a bus and then driving, it typically takes 7 hours and 30 minutes to reach Decorah from Des Moines. Conversely, the travel time is shorter when driving directly, with an estimated time of 3 hours and 45 minutes to reach Des Moines from Decorah by car.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Des Moines to Decorah is to drive. This option takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes and costs around $35-$55 for fuel expenses. Taking a bus may seem more cost-effective, but it takes significantly longer, around 7 hours and 30 minutes, due to transfers and stops. Therefore, driving is the optimal choice for both saving time and money.
To travel from Des Moines to Decorah without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 203 miles. The journey takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes. Depending on the specific car and fuel prices, the estimated cost ranges from $35 to $55. This method of transportation allows for flexibility and convenience, as you can make stops along the way and explore different sights at your own pace.
The flight between Des Moines and Decorah is not a direct flight as there are no airports in Decorah. The closest airport to Decorah is in La Crosse, Wisconsin which is about 65 miles away. The quickest flight from Des Moines Airport to La Crosse Regional Airport is the direct flight which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight varies depending on the time of booking and availability, but it typically ranges from $200 to $400 round trip.
There are several accommodation options available in Decorah. There are at least six hotels in the area where you can stay. Prices for these hotels start from $54 per night. Some popular options include the Hotel Winneshiek, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and the Quality Inn & Suites Decorah. These hotels provide comfortable and convenient lodging options for visitors to Decorah.

Trips from Des Moines