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Des Moines, IA, USA to Charlotte, NC, USA from $148: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Des Moines to Charlotte: 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.

$148 by busBest price
1324 kmDistance
3h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Charlotte 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
3h 
Estimated price
$90-453
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1324 km
Duration: 3h

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
34h  52m
Estimated price
$108-900
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
28h  9m
Estimated price
$115-387
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
27h  31m
Estimated price
$148-290
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
30h  5m
Estimated price
$170-398
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
37h  14m
Estimated price
$901-902
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
17h  34m
Estimated price
$903-904
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Traveling From Des Moines to Charlotte

Traveling from Des Moines to Charlotte offers a striking contrast between the serene, Midwestern charm of Iowa's capital and the vibrant, bustling energy of North Carolina's largest city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Charlotte

Charlotte boasts diverse neighborhoods that cater to various interests and tastes.

Uptown
• Home to major businesses and financial institutions.
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous restaurants and bars.
South End
• Known for its art galleries and craft breweries.
• Great walking trails and urban parks.
NoDa
• Famous for its local music scene and street art.
• Unique shops and eclectic dining options.

Best Times To Visit Charlotte's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experiences at Charlotte's top spots.

U.S. National Whitewater Center
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and shorter wait times.
Carowinds Amusement Park
Go on weekdays during the spring for manageable lines and pleasant weather.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame
Late afternoons on weekdays provide quieter exhibits and more personal exploration.

Charlotte Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charlotte enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it an appealing year-round destination. Spring and fall are ideal for outdoor activities, while summer's heat may influence your plans at popular attractions.

Dining in Charlotte: A Culinary Adventure

Try the smoked brisket at Midwood Smokehouse, where the rich, smoky flavors reflect Charlotte’s Southern BBQ roots, offering a stark contrast to the heartier Midwestern dishes often found in Des Moines. The lively atmosphere and focus on local ingredients elevate your dining experience, revealing a vibrant twist on regional cuisine.

Des Moines - Charlotte operators

Explore transport companies operating between Des Moines and Charlotte, 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 (DSM) to Charlotte (CLT)

Average Duration
2h 11m
Estimated price
$4532-4533
Website
delta.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Charlotte (CLT)

Average Duration
4h 28m
Estimated price
$907-908
Website
united.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Charlotte (CLT)

Average Duration
4h 46m
Estimated price
$4532-4533
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Des Moines, Ia to Chicago, Il

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Chicago IL to Atlanta GA

Average Duration
14h 40m
Estimated price
$4537-1153

Bus from Atlanta Downtown to Charlotte

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$2908-1153
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$1154-907

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
15h 40m
Estimated price
$1153-170

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$2902-907
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Ashland Amtrak Station

Average Duration
11h 50m
Estimated price
$4534-170

Train from Ashland to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
$4538-1153

Train from Galesburg Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$2906-2907

Train from Charlottesville to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration
5h 38m
Estimated price
$2901-1481
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Des Moines to Charlotte

Average Duration
17h 34m
Estimated price
$903-904

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

Traveling between Des Moines and Charlotte 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 an epic road trip from Des Moines to Charlotte covering a distance of 1044 miles. Take in the scenic views as you cruise across the heartland of America towards the vibrant city in the South. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of choosing between different price ranges for your journey, with costs ranging from $180 to $280 for the trip by car. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your travel experience on the open road. 🌆 Arrive in Charlotte after approximately 17 hours and 34 minutes of driving, ready to explore the city's rich history, delicious cuisine, and Southern charm. Let the adventure begin as you discover all that Charlotte has to offer after your memorable road trip.
Average price
$180 - $280
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Des Moines to Charlotte covering a distance of 1,269 miles over 1 day and 9 hours with 4 transfers along the way.
🛫 Traveling from Des Moines to Charlotte by plane is a convenient and efficient option. The quickest direct flight between the two cities takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, making it a short journey. 🎫 Airlines such as United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta operate flights from Des Moines Airport to Charlotte Airport, providing a variety of options for travelers. The flight duration from Des Moines to Charlotte typically ranges around 3 hours, offering a direct and swift route between the two destinations. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Charlotte and Des Moines can vary, with fares typically ranging from $90 to $453 depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. Planning ahead and comparing prices can help travelers secure the best deal for their trip.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Charlotte Airport
🚌 Planning a bus trip from Des Moines to Charlotte? While there's no direct route, you can travel via Kansas City, St Louis, and Atlanta, taking approximately 30 hours with transfers. 🛤️ Jefferson Lines and Greyhound USA operate the services, offering a long but scenic journey through the Midwest and South. 🗺️ One possible route involves 3 transfers and covers a distance of 1,642 miles, lasting about 27 hours. 🚌 From Des Moines, you'll make your way through Minneapolis, Chicago, and Atlanta before reaching Charlotte. 🎫 Ticket prices can range from $148 to $290 for this adventurous bus ride.
Departure Point
Des Moines, IA station
Arrival Point
Charlotte Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Des Moines to Charlotte is by taking a bus. It typically costs between $140 and $290 and the journey takes approximately 27 hours and 31 minutes. This can be a budget-friendly option for those looking to save money on transportation costs. However, it is important to consider the lengthy travel time involved when choosing this option.
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines to Charlotte is by flying. There are direct flights available from Des Moines International Airport to Charlotte Douglas International Airport which take approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes. The cost of the flight can range between $150 and $600 depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals on flights.
It is approximately 823 miles from Des Moines to Charlotte. The distance by road is around 1044 miles. The estimated driving time is about 15-16 hours, depending on traffic and route. There are also direct flights available, which can take around 2-3 hours.
The most convenient way to travel from Des Moines to Charlotte without a car is by taking a combination of a night bus, a train, and another bus. This option takes approximately 27 hours and 8 minutes and costs between $140 and $390. You can take a night bus from Des Moines to Chicago, then transfer to a train from Chicago to Raleigh. Finally, you would take another bus from Raleigh to Charlotte. It's important to plan ahead, check schedules, and book tickets in advance for a smooth journey.
The average travel time from Des Moines to Charlotte is around 3 hours and 6 minutes, including transfers. This time may vary depending on factors such as the mode of transportation and any layovers or delays along the way. It is recommended to check the specific schedule for your chosen mode of travel to get an accurate estimate of the total travel duration.
There are a wide range of accommodation options available in Charlotte. The city has 583+ hotels to choose from, offering options for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in Charlotte start at $52 per night, catering to various budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, travelers can find the perfect place to stay during their visit to Charlotte.
Yes, you can drive from Des Moines to Charlotte. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1044 miles. It typically takes around 17 hours and 34 minutes to complete the drive, but this can vary depending on traffic and the route you take. Make sure to plan for rest stops and consider splitting the journey over multiple days if needed.
To get to Charlotte from the airport, the most convenient option is to take a taxi which typically takes around 10 minutes and costs between $16 and $20. Alternatively, you can also consider using a ridesharing service or a shuttle service provided by the airport. Public transportation options like buses or trains are also available, but the travel time may be longer and schedules may be less frequent.
United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines all offer flights between Des Moines and Charlotte. These airlines provide regular service from Des Moines Airport to Charlotte Airport. Travelers have the option to choose from multiple airlines for this route, allowing them to select the one that best suits their schedule and budget. It is advisable to check the airlines' websites or use travel comparison websites to compare prices and find the most convenient flight options.
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines to Charlotte is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight which takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes. Airlines such as United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines offer flights from Des Moines Airport to Charlotte Airport. The prices for a flight between Charlotte and Des Moines can range from $150 to $573.
The flight from Des Moines to Charlotte takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes on a direct flight. This time may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is advisable to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight duration.
The cost of a flight from Des Moines to Charlotte can range from $150 to $573 depending on various factors such as the airlines, the time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to compare prices from different airlines, use flight comparison websites, and book in advance to secure the best deal. Additionally, consider checking for any seasonal offers or promotions that airlines may have to offer.
The cost of a bus ticket from Des Moines to Charlotte ranges from $148 to $290. The price may vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and availability. It is advisable to book your ticket in advance to secure the best possible fare.
The cost of driving from Des Moines to Charlotte can range from $180 to $280, depending on factors such as gas prices, tolls, and the type of vehicle you are driving. This estimate includes fuel costs, meals, and accommodations if needed. It's important to keep in mind that these costs can fluctuate depending on your driving habits and any additional expenses you may incur along the way.

Trips from Des Moines

Trips to Charlotte