1map logoGo to main page

Des Moines, IA, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $65: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Des Moines to Chicago: 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.

$65 by busBest price
501 kmDistance
2h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Chicago 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
Plane
Average Duration
2h  23m
Estimated price
$109-455
Recommended
Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
7h 
Estimated price
$65-130
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 501 km
Duration: 2h 23m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  32m
Estimated price
$60-1090
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  56m
Estimated price
$73-224
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  13m
Estimated price
$159-725
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Des Moines to Chicago

The journey from Des Moines to Chicago offers a blend of serene Midwestern charm and vibrant urban energy, allowing you to experience the tranquility of Iowa's countryside and the bustling streets filled with culture and activity in Illinois.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago’s neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions for visitors.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo and beautiful gardens.
• Great restaurants and shopping along Armitage Avenue.
Wicker Park
• Trendy art scene with galleries and boutiques.
• Lively nightlife including bars and live music venues.
The Loop
• Chicago's central business district with iconic architecture.
• Easy access to museums and Millennium Park.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Chicago experience.

The Art Institute of Chicago
Weekday mornings are ideal for a quieter visit to view masterpieces.
Millennium Park
Early mornings on weekdays offer fewer crowds and stunning sunrise views.
Navy Pier
Visit on weekdays in the afternoon to enjoy attractions without the hustle.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a four-season climate, with cold winters and warm summers; visiting in spring or fall often provides the most enjoyable weather for travelers. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, as the weather can influence your plans and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation

Savor the rich flavors of Chicago’s deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, a dish that contrasts sharply with the Midwest comfort foods you'll find in Des Moines. The vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients in Chicago transform dining into a memorable adventure, showcasing the city’s culinary diversity.

Des Moines - Chicago operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Des Moines Airport (DSM) to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$130-1097
Website
delta.com

Plane from Des Moines Airport (DSM) to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$1091-1092
Website
united.com

Plane from Des Moines Airport (DSM) to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$1098-600
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Des Moines Airport (DSM) to Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)

Average Duration
3h 37m
Estimated price
$1099-4550
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$65-130

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Burlington, IA

Average Duration
Estimated price
$652-60

Bus from Burlington, IA to Galesburg, IL

Average Duration
Estimated price
$655-652
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Galesburg Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$4552-4553

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

Traveling between Des Moines and Chicago 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 a scenic road trip from Des Moines to Chicago, covering a distance of 335 miles. Enjoy the Midwest landscapes as you drive through charming towns and open highways. 💸 The cost of driving from Des Moines to Chicago ranges from $60 to $90, offering an affordable and flexible transportation option. Explore different routes and plan for stops along the way to enhance your journey. 🌆 Arrive in bustling Chicago after approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes of driving. Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture, iconic skyline, and diverse culinary scene.
Average price
$60 - $90
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Des Moines to Chicago. Covering a distance of 699 miles, the trip takes approximately 17 hours and 15 minutes with a transfer along the way. 🚌 The first leg of the journey involves a comfortable bus ride towards Minneapolis, lasting about 5 hours and 35 minutes. Board the Jefferson Lines bus 804 departing from Des Moines and arriving in Minneapolis to continue on to your destination. 🌆 Complete your adventure with the final bus ride from Minneapolis to Chicago, spanning around 8 hours and 35 minutes. Board the Greyhound bus labeled "Minneapolis, MN - Chicago" at the Greyhound Bus Station in Minneapolis for a seamless transition to the Windy City.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Des Moines to Chicago, you'll primarily be traveling on Amtrak’s Southwest Chief or the Illinois Zephyr. Onboard services include complimentary Wi-Fi and a café car offering light snacks, beverages, and meals for purchase. The café menu features sandwiches, salads, and various drink options, so be sure to bring some cash or a credit card for your purchases.
• Seating options on Amtrak trains vary. The Illinois Zephyr provides Coach Class (Economy seating), which is comfortable and reasonably priced, while the Southwest Chief offers Roomettes and Bedrooms in addition to Coach Class. These premium options provide greater privacy and additional amenities like complimentary meals and access to the lounge car. Consider upgrading if you prefer more space and comfort!
• For your route, Amtrak is the primary operator. You can find more information, schedules, and book your tickets at Amtrak's official website. Upon arrival in Chicago at Union Station, be prepared for a bustling environment. You can store your luggage at the station for a small fee; check out the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge, which offers restrooms and free Wi-Fi, though there are no showers available. For fast access to downtown Chicago, hop on the 'Union Station' stop and use the 'Chicago Transit Authority's' Blue Line towards O'Hare. It'll take you directly to the city center in about 20 minutes. For further details on local transit, visit Chicago Transit Authority.
🛫 Flying from Des Moines to Chicago is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 24 minutes. Delta, United Airlines, and American Airlines provide flights for this route from Des Moines Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport. 🏙 Once you land in Chicago, you'll have covered a distance of 299 miles in approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes. The city offers a vibrant mix of cultural attractions, delicious food, and architectural marvels to explore. 💸 Flight prices between Chicago and Des Moines can range from $109 to $455, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. It's recommended to plan ahead and compare different options to find the best deal for your trip.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 Traveling from Des Moines to Chicago by bus offers a convenient and affordable option. The journey, operated by Burlington Trailways, takes approximately 7 hours with three daily departures. 🛣️ The route from Des Moines to Chicago spans 666 miles and can vary in price from $65 to $130. For those looking for alternate routes, transfers are available with varying durations, distances, and agencies such as Jefferson Lines and Greyhound.
Departure Point
Des Moines, Ia station
Arrival Point
Chicago, Il station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• To make your bus trip from Des Moines to Chicago as seamless as possible, check the Burlington Trailways schedule and book your ticket in advance through their website at burlingtontrailways.com as there are only three departures daily.
• If you have some downtime before your departure from Des Moines, consider grabbing a bite at one of the nearby dining options, like 'The Cheese Shop', known for its sandwiches and snacks, located just a short walk from the bus station.
• Upon arrival at Chicago’s bus station, familiarize yourself with the layout by reviewing the station map available at greyhound.com and plan your next steps accordingly, whether taking public transportation or finding a nearby taxi service.

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Des Moines and Chicago is approximately 311 miles or 335 miles if driving by car. If taking a combination of bus and train, it typically takes 8 hours and 56 minutes to reach Chicago from Des Moines. However, if flying, the travel time is significantly shorter, with an average of 2 hours and 26 minutes. On the return journey from Chicago to Des Moines, it usually takes around 5 hours and 32 minutes by car, and 7 hours by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Des Moines to Chicago is to drive, with estimated costs ranging from $60 to $90. This mode of transportation also takes approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $110 and $450. Considering both cost and time, driving would be the more affordable choice, while flying would save significant travel time.
The prices of a bus ticket between Des Moines and Chicago range from $65 to $130. The exact price may depend on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and whether it is a one-way or round-trip ticket. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your trip.
To travel from Des Moines to Chicago without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 335 miles, which can be covered in about 5 hours and 32 minutes by car. The driving time may vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is generally a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation. The estimated cost of gas for this trip ranges from $60 to $90, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
The best way to travel from Des Moines to Chicago without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and the cost is usually between $65 and $130. There are multiple bus services available that provide convenient and comfortable transportation options for this route.
Yes, there is a direct link between Des Moines and Chicago. Burlington Trailways operates bus services that depart from Des Moines three times a day and arrive in Chicago approximately 7 hours later. This direct bus service allows travelers to conveniently reach their destination without the need for transfers or additional modes of transportation.
The flight between Des Moines and Chicago typically takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes on the quickest direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $114 to $445. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are numerous hotels available near Chicago. With a variety of options to choose from, you can find accommodations suitable for your needs and budget. The starting price for hotels in Chicago is $58, and there are over 1116 hotels to choose from. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, budget-friendly options, or boutique hotels, you will have plenty of choices for your stay in Chicago.

Trips from Des Moines

Trips to Chicago