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Des Moines, IA, USA to Wichita, KS, USA from $59: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Des Moines to Wichita: 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.

$59 by busBest price
542 kmDistance
4h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Wichita 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
4h  41m
Estimated price
$85-393
Recommended
Company
Jefferson Lines / Greyhound
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  5m
Estimated price
$59-153
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 542 km
Duration: 4h 41m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
8h  5m
Estimated price
$59-153
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  9m
Estimated price
$70-110
Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
10h  49m
Estimated price
$140-225
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Des Moines to Wichita

Traveling from Des Moines to Wichita reveals a journey from Iowa's charming small-town vibe to Kansas' vibrant city life, offering you a rich contrast of culture, scenery, and activities.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wichita

Wichita boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Old Town
• Bustling nightlife with trendy bars and restaurants.
• Historic red-brick buildings add charm and character.
Delano
• Known for its eclectic shops and cozy cafes.
• Features beautiful views of the Arkansas River.
College Hill
• Tree-lined streets with stunning historic homes.
• Close to lush parks and engaging local art.

Best Times To Visit Wichita's Attractions

Timing your visits to attractions in Wichita can enhance your experience tremendously.

Sedgwick County Zoo
Visit during weekdays in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Exploration Place
Aim for early afternoons midweek to explore exhibits with minimal distractions.
Botanica Wichita
Spring weekdays provide blooming beauty and fewer visitors enjoying the gardens.

Wichita Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wichita experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Understanding the weather can enhance your travel experience by helping you plan activities suited to the warmth or chill of each season.

Dining in Wichita: A Culinary Adventure

In Wichita, don’t miss out on trying the local favorite—barbecue brisket—with its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture that sets it apart from Des Moines' farm-to-table style. The lively atmosphere of the barbecue joints, often adorned with regional artwork and live music, adds a vibrant backdrop to your dining experience.

Des Moines - Wichita operators

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

Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
4h 34m
Estimated price
$140-8500

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
7h 13m
Estimated price
$140-8500
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
$852-854

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
5h 52m
Estimated price
$855-856
Website
delta.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
5h 27m
Estimated price
$857-858

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
9h 9m
Estimated price
$859-854
Website
united.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$140-8500

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
6h 43m
Estimated price
$852-853

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower (ICT)

Average Duration
6h 41m
Estimated price
$140-8500
Bus
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
$59-153
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to Wichita Bus Stop

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$3930-3931

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
$59-153
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Omaha, NE

Average Duration
Estimated price
$3932-850
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+52 449 146 8888
Website
facebook.com

Other from Omaha, NE to Wichita, KS

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$3934-852

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

Traveling between Des Moines and Wichita 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 Wichita, covering a distance of 393 miles. ⛽ Fuel up and enjoy the journey, taking approximately 6 hours and 9 minutes to reach Wichita. With prices ranging from $70 to $110 for the trip, you can plan your budget accordingly for stops along the way.
Average price
$70 - $110
🚆 Traveling from Des Moines to Wichita by train offers a scenic journey covering a distance of 414 miles. The total travel time is approximately 8 hours and 52 minutes with a transfer involved. 🚌 The first leg of the trip involves a bus ride towards Kansas City, lasting around 3 hours and 30 minutes. The Jefferson Lines bus departs from Des Moines and arrives in Kansas City before transferring to another bus towards Dallas Bus Station, operated by Greyhound, for the journey to Wichita.
🛫 Traveling from Des Moines to Wichita by plane will require a stopover since there are no direct flights available. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes. 🌍 Airlines like Delta, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines operate flights from Des Moines Airport to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower Airport. The total duration of the journey by plane from Des Moines to Wichita is around 4 hours and 41 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Wichita and Des Moines can range from $85 to $393, offering a variety of options depending on budget and preferred airline. With multiple carriers to choose from, travelers can find a suitable flight to reach their destination comfortably.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 20m and has one stopover
🚏 The bus services from Des Moines to Wichita are operated by Jefferson Lines and Greyhound USA, with a total travel time of around 8 hours and 5 minutes. This provides an opportunity to enjoy the scenic route between the two cities. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket from Wichita to Des Moines range from $59 to $153, making it an affordable way to travel between these destinations.
Departure Point
Des Moines, IA station
Arrival Point
Wichita Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Des Moines and Wichita is approximately 337 miles by air and 393.3 miles by road. If traveling by plane, it takes around 4 hours and 46 minutes to reach Wichita from Des Moines. On the other hand, if driving by car, the typical travel time is about 6 hours and 9 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus would take approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes to reach Wichita from Des Moines.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Des Moines to Wichita is by driving. It takes around 6 hours and 9 minutes and costs approximately $70 to $110, depending on gas prices and tolls. However, if time is a priority, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking only 4 hours and 46 minutes. The cost of a flight can range from $200 to $650, depending on the airline and time of booking.
The prices of a bus ticket between Wichita and Des Moines vary from $59 to $153. The cost may depend on factors such as the time of travel, the type of bus service chosen, and any special discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online travel websites to compare prices and find the best deal for your desired travel dates.
One way to travel from Des Moines to Wichita without using public transportation is by driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 393 miles, and it takes about 6 hours and 9 minutes to drive from Des Moines to Wichita. The cost to travel by car can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices, vehicle type, and tolls, but it is estimated to range between $70 and $110.
To travel from Des Moines to Wichita without a car, the best option is to take a night bus and then a regular bus. This journey takes approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes and costs between $55 and $160. It is a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination without the need for a car. Make sure to check the bus schedules and book your tickets in advance for a smooth travel experience.
No, there is no direct link between Des Moines and Wichita by bus. However, there are bus services provided by Jefferson Lines and Greyhound USA that require transfers at Kansas City Bus Station. The journey from Des Moines to Wichita by bus takes approximately 8h 5m, including the transfers.
The flight duration between Des Moines and Wichita is approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes, with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between Des Moines Airport and Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower Airport. As for the cost, the prices for a flight between the two cities typically range from $205 to $643, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors.
There are over 110 hotels available in Wichita. These hotels offer a range of prices, starting at $37 per night. Some popular hotel options in Wichita include the Ambassador Hotel Wichita, the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita, and the Hyatt Regency Wichita. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious stay, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from near Wichita.

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