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Des Moines, IA, USA to Springfield, IL, USA from $161: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Des Moines to Springfield: 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.

$161 - PlaneBest price
543 kmDistance
5h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Springfield 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
Burlington Trailways, Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  22m
Estimated price
$161-517
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 543 km
Duration: 5h 22m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  32m
Estimated price
$60-90
Company
Various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$257-640
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Des Moines to Springfield

Traveling from Des Moines to Springfield offers a journey through vibrant urban energy into a city that combines history with outdoor charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Springfield

Springfield boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Springfield
• Features vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Home to cultural institutions and local art scenes.
Westside
• Known for its historic architecture and parks.
• Offers a family-friendly atmosphere with local shops.
Southtown
• Offers trendy cafes and boutique stores.
• Hosts annual community events and festivals.

Best Times To Visit Springfield's Attractions

Planning your visit to Springfield's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site
Visit in early morning or late afternoon for quieter exploration.
Illinois State Museum
Weekdays are less crowded; plan for a visit mid-morning.
Washington Park Botanical Garden
Spring and early summer offer vibrant blooms and fewer visitors.

Springfield Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Springfield experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal times to visit for pleasant temperatures. Be mindful that weather can influence outdoor activities, so checking forecasts ahead of your trip will help you plan accordingly.

Dining Recommendation

Try the famous Horseshoe sandwich at D'arcy's Pint, a local staple featuring layers of toast, burger, fries, and cheese sauce that showcases Springfield's unique culinary flair. This hearty dish contrasts sharply with the more traditional farm-to-fork offerings in Des Moines, providing a vibrant atmosphere and a bold flavor profile influenced by local ingredients.

Des Moines - Springfield operators

Explore transport companies operating between Des Moines and Springfield, 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 Galesburg, Il

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Galesburg Amtrak to Springfield Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Galesburg Amtrak to Springfield Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
0-0
Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Springfield (SPI)

Average Duration
6h 28m
Estimated price
$130-1610
Website
united.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Springfield (SPI)

Average Duration
7h 1m
Estimated price
$130-1610
Other Show other routes

Other from Decatur to Springfield

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
$257-640

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

Traveling between Des Moines and Springfield 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 Springfield covering 337 miles of Midwest charm. The journey is estimated to take around 5 hours and 32 minutes, offering a mix of urban skylines and rural landscapes along the way. 💵 The cost of driving from Des Moines to Springfield ranges from $60 to $90, providing budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the heartland of the United States. With affordable fuel prices and potential pit stops for snacks and rest breaks, it's a cost-effective way to experience the road trip adventure.
Average price
$60 - $90
🛫 Flying from Des Moines to Springfield involves taking a connecting flight since there are no direct flights available. The quickest option with one stopover lasts approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes. 🌎 Both United Airlines and American Airlines operate flights between Des Moines Airport and Springfield Airport. The total flight duration from Des Moines to Springfield is around 5 hours and 22 minutes, providing a convenient travel option for passengers. 💸 Flight prices between Springfield and Des Moines can range from $161 to $517, giving travelers flexibility in choosing budget-friendly or more luxurious travel options. Overall, flying between these two cities offers a relatively efficient and accessible travel experience.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Springfield Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 4m and has one stopover
🚌 The trip from Des Moines to Springfield by bus requires a transfer in Galesburg, with a total journey time of approximately 8 hours. 🕒 In total, the bus journey from Des Moines to Springfield takes 8 hours, offering a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the two cities.
Departure Point
Des Moines, Ia station
Arrival Point
Springfield Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The road distance between Des Moines and Springfield is 337.4 miles, with a direct distance of 243 miles. Traveling by plane is the fastest option, taking approximately 5 hours and 22 minutes. Driving by car typically takes around 5 hours and 32 minutes. For those preferring to take the bus, the journey can take up to 8 hours.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Des Moines to Springfield is by driving, which typically costs between $60 to $90 and takes approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes. On the other hand, the fastest option is to fly, taking around 5 hours and 22 minutes at a cost ranging from $160 to $550. Considering both time and cost, flying may be the most time-efficient choice for travelers looking to reach Springfield quickly, while driving remains the more budget-friendly option for those willing to spend a bit more time on the road.
To travel from Des Moines to Springfield without using public transportation, you can drive the 337-mile distance, which typically takes around 5 hours and 32 minutes. The cost of driving from Des Moines to Springfield by car can range from $60 to $90, depending on factors like fuel efficiency and toll roads. This option provides flexibility in terms of stops and allows you to enjoy the scenic route between the two cities.
The best way to travel from Des Moines to Springfield without a car is by taking a bus, which takes approximately 8 hours. Bus services are available between these two cities, providing a convenient and affordable option for travel. Be sure to check the bus schedule and book your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth journey between Des Moines and Springfield.
There is no direct bus service between Des Moines and Springfield. Travelers would need to take a bus from Des Moines to Galesburg Amtrak station and then transfer to another bus reaching Springfield Amtrak Station, totaling about 8 hours. The bus services are operated by Burlington Trailways for the initial leg and by Amtrak for the second part of the journey. Plan accordingly for the transfers and the duration to ensure a smooth trip between the two cities.
The flight duration from Des Moines to Springfield with one stopover typically takes around 5 hours and 4 minutes. The cost of a flight between these two cities ranges from $161 to $517, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. Since there are no direct flights available, travelers can expect a layover during the journey. It's recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for this route.
Near Springfield there are over 45 hotels offering accommodation options with prices starting at $41 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn. Visitors can choose to stay in downtown Springfield for easy access to attractions and dining options, or explore accommodations further out for a quieter setting. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure preferred lodging options.

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