1map logoGo to main page

Des Moines, IA, USA to Lawrence, KS, USA from $40: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Des Moines to Lawrence: 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.

$40 - DriveBest price
376 kmDistance
3h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Lawrence 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
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$41-123
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$41-123
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 376 km
Duration: 3h 49m

See more options

Company
Self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
3h  49m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  53m
Estimated price
$96-425
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$174-595
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Des Moines to Lawrence

The journey from Des Moines to Lawrence offers a delightful contrast, from the bustling urban vibe and cultural richness of Iowa's capital to the charming college-town atmosphere and vibrant arts scene found in Lawrence.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lawrence

Lawrence features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Massachusetts Street
• Hub for local shops and eateries.
• Lively atmosphere with frequent events.
Old West Lawrence
• Historic homes with unique architecture.
• Close to the university and parks.
East Lawrence
• Bohemian vibe with art studios.
• Eclectic dining options and breweries.

Best Times To Visit Lawrence's Attractions

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

University of Kansas
Early mornings on weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere to explore.
Downtown Lawrence
Visit on weekday afternoons for a less crowded shopping experience.
Lawrence Arts Center
Check for events during off-peak hours for a more intimate setting.

Lawrence Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lawrence experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Understanding the weather can help you plan your activities and ensure you enjoy everything this vibrant city offers.

Dining Recommendation in Lawrence

Try the delicious local favorite, the pulled pork sandwich at The Pig, where the smoky flavor paired with house-made sauces highlights the regional BBQ expertise. This contrasts with Des Moines' more Midwestern comfort food approach, offering you a taste of Lawrence's vibrant culinary scene and focus on local, fresh ingredients.

Des Moines - Lawrence operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
$41-123
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to Lawrence Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$41-123
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
5h 14m
Estimated price
$410-411

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Manhattan (MHK)

Average Duration
5h 52m
Estimated price
$414-415
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
4h 47m
Estimated price
$412-416
Website
delta.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
5h 37m
Estimated price
$419-650
Website
united.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
6h 28m
Estimated price
$410-411
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Kansas City (MCI)

Average Duration
5h 49m
Estimated price
$1231-1232

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

Traveling between Des Moines and Lawrence 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.

🚗 Begin your journey from Des Moines for a scenic drive to Lawrence covering a distance of 234 miles. 🌳 Enjoy the beautiful Midwest landscape along the way as you embark on this road trip. 💰 Depending on factors like gas prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of driving from Des Moines to Lawrence typically ranges between $40 to $65. 🛣️ Plan ahead to ensure a smooth and budget-friendly travel experience. 🕒 With an approximate travel time of 3 hours and 49 minutes, the road trip from Des Moines to Lawrence offers a perfect opportunity to explore the heartland of America by car. 🌞 Soak in the sights and enjoy the journey towards your destination in Lawrence.
Average price
$40 - $65
🛫 Traveling from Des Moines to Lawrence by plane involves catching a flight from Des Moines Airport to Kansas City Airport. However, there are no direct flights available for this route. ✈️ The fastest option for this journey is a 4-hour and 5-minute flight with one stopover. Several airlines, including Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines, provide flights from Des Moines to Kansas City. 🌎 Once you land at Kansas City Airport, you can easily make the approximately 50-mile journey to Lawrence by car or public transportation, allowing you to enjoy all that this vibrant college town has to offer.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Kansas City Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 5m and has one stopover
🚌 If you're traveling from Des Moines to Lawrence by bus, be prepared for a journey with transfers. Services depart from Des Moines and arrive in Lawrence via Kansas City, making the total travel time around 5 hours and 5 minutes. 🚌 Ticket prices for the Des Moines to Lawrence bus route can range from $41 to $123, offering options for different budgets. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride as you make your way from Iowa to Kansas by bus.
Departure Point
Des Moines, IA station
Arrival Point
Lawrence Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Des Moines and Lawrence is approximately 202 miles. By car, it takes around 3 hours and 49 minutes to travel from Lawrence to Des Moines. If you prefer taking a bus, the travel time is approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly to Kansas City from Des Moines and then take a bus to Lawrence, which takes around 6 hours and 53 minutes.
Based on cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency, the best transportation option for traveling from Des Moines to Lawrence is driving. It takes approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes to drive the distance of 234 miles, and the cost ranges from $40 to $65. This option provides the convenience of having your own vehicle and allows for flexibility in the travel schedule.
The prices of a bus between Lawrence and Des Moines can vary between $41 and $123. The specific price will depend on factors such as the time of booking, the bus company, and any discounts or promotions that may be available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel.
To travel from Des Moines to Lawrence without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance is 234 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes to drive from Des Moines to Lawrence. The cost of driving will depend on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency, ranging from $40 to $65.
The most convenient way to travel from Des Moines to Lawrence without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes. The bus ticket prices range from $40 to $130. This is a reliable and cost-effective option for those who prefer not to drive.
There is no direct bus link between Des Moines and Lawrence. However, there are bus services operated by Jefferson Lines and Greyhound USA that can take you from Des Moines to Lawrence with a transfer in Kansas City. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes.
The flight between Des Moines and Lawrence typically has a duration of 3 hours and 5 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available from Des Moines Airport to Kansas City Airport. The cost of the flight will vary depending on the airline and the booking time, but typically it ranges from around $200 to $400. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Lawrence. There are over 23 hotels available, with prices starting at $50 per night. Some popular hotels in the area include The Oread Hotel, SpringHill Suites Lawrence, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lawrence. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there will be something available to suit your needs in Lawrence.

Trips from Des Moines