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Des Moines, IA, USA to Minneapolis, MN, USA from $40: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Des Moines to Minneapolis: 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 by busBest price
394 kmDistance
1h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Minneapolis 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
Delta
Plane
Average Duration
1h  54m
Estimated price
$160-404
Recommended
Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$40-110
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 394 km
Duration: 1h 54m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$46-107
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Traveling From Des Moines to Minneapolis

The journey from Des Moines, Iowa's charming small-town vibe, to Minneapolis, a bustling urban hub, offers an exciting contrast of laid-back culture and vibrant city life.

Best Neighborhoods in Minneapolis

Minneapolis features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

North Loop
• Known for trendy boutiques and art galleries.
• Vibrant dining scene with local breweries.
Lyndale
• Home to Lake Harriet and beautiful parks.
• Eclectic shops and popular restaurants.
Nicollet Island
• Offers scenic views of the city skyline.
• Historic charm with walking paths and parks.

Best Times To Visit Minneapolis's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Minneapolis's top spots.

Minneapolis Institute of Art
Visit on Thursday evenings for fewer crowds and free admission.
Mill City Museum
Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience and shorter wait times.
Guthrie Theater
Attend a matinee on Saturdays for a more relaxed vibe.

Minneapolis Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Minneapolis experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, offering distinct seasonal experiences. Late spring and early fall are ideal for visiting, as comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Minneapolis

Try the Juicy Lucy, a mouthwatering cheeseburger stuffed with melted cheese, at Matt's Bar, a local favorite that showcases Minneapolis' unique take on classic American fare. The lively atmosphere and innovative flavor profiles here provide a refreshing contrast to the more traditional dining options in Des Moines.

Des Moines - Minneapolis operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$150-1600
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Minneapolis

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$40-110

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Mall of America - Bloomington, MN

Average Duration
5h 8m
Estimated price
$46-107

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

Traveling between Des Moines and Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis covering a driving distance of 245 miles. Enjoy the journey as you venture through the charming Midwest landscape. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $40 to $65 for the drive from Des Moines to Minneapolis. Explore affordable ways to make this road trip a memorable and cost-effective adventure. 🏙️ Arrive in vibrant Minneapolis after approximately 4 hours of driving, ready to explore the city's rich culture, diverse food scene, and iconic landmarks. Let the road trip be the start of an exciting Minneapolis getaway.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚆 Start your journey from Des Moines to Minneapolis by taking a convenient bus ride with Jefferson Lines. The bus departs from Des Moines and arrives in Minneapolis, covering a distance of 266 miles in approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes. 🌟 Traveling by train from Des Moines to Minneapolis is a comfortable and scenic way to reach your destination. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as you make your way to the bustling city of Minneapolis in under 6 hours.
🛫 Flying from Des Moines to Minneapolis is a convenient and quick option, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 14 minutes. 🎟️ The prices for flights between Minneapolis and Des Moines can range from $160 to $404, offering flexibility for different budgets.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Minneapolis Airport
Jefferson Lines offers 5 daily services operating every day, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours. 🌆 The bus ride from Des Moines to Minneapolis covers a distance of 268 miles and involves one transfer. The first leg is on Jefferson Lines from Des Moines to Burnsville Transit Station, followed by a connection with the METRO Orange Line to downtown Minneapolis. 🎫 Ticket prices for the bus between Des Moines and Minneapolis range from $40 to $110. Enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey to the vibrant city of Minneapolis on this scenic route.
Departure Point
Des Moines, IA station
Arrival Point
Minneapolis station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider downloading the Jefferson Lines app to keep track of real-time bus departures and arrivals for your trip from Des Moines to Minneapolis; this can help you avoid missing your bus.
• While in Burnsville during your transfer, take advantage of the nearby Burnsville Heart of the City where you can grab a quick bite or enjoy coffee; options include local favorites like The Perfect Cup (15396 Cedar Ave) or pizza at Pizza Luce (300 E Burnsville Parkway).
• Upon arriving at the Minneapolis bus station, be ready to navigate the local transit options; the METRO buses have convenient stops just outside the station, and the Metro Transit app can provide you with live updates and information on connecting routes to your final destination.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Des Moines and Minneapolis is approximately 236 miles by air and 245 miles by road. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach Minneapolis from Des Moines. By car, it takes around 4 hours to drive from Des Moines to Minneapolis. By bus, the journey takes approximately 5 hours to reach Minneapolis from Des Moines.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Des Moines to Minneapolis is to drive. The estimated cost ranges from $40 to $65, and it takes approximately 4 hours by car. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly. It takes only 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach Minneapolis by plane, but the cost ranges from $150 to $410.
When traveling from Des Moines to Minneapolis the prices for a bus ticket can range from $40 to $110. The exact price may vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, the level of comfort, and any promotional offers. It is recommended to check with individual bus companies or online travel agencies for the most up-to-date and competitive prices.
To travel from Des Moines to Minneapolis without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 245 miles, which takes approximately 4 hours. Gas prices may vary, but you can expect to spend around $40 to $65 for the journey. This option gives you the flexibility of exploring at your own pace and allows you to bring along any necessary items for your trip.
To travel from Des Moines to Minneapolis without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and the cost can range from $40 to $110. Another option is to take a plane, which is faster, with a travel time of 1 hour and 50 minutes. However, it is usually more expensive than taking the bus.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Des Moines and Minneapolis. The bus service, operated by Jefferson Lines, departs from Des Moines and arrives at Minneapolis station. The bus runs five times a day and operates every day, with the journey taking approximately 5 hours.
The flight between Des Moines and Minneapolis typically takes 1 hour and 11 minutes on a direct flight. The prices for this flight can vary between $150 and $404. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most up-to-date prices and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Minneapolis with over 458 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $45 per night, providing a range of options to fit different budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or more affordable options, there are plenty of choices available to suit your needs. It's recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability for your stay in Minneapolis.

Trips from Des Moines

Trips to Minneapolis