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Iowa City, IA, USA to Des Plaines, IL, USA from $40: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Iowa City, United States of America
to
Des Plaines, United States of America

How to Get from Iowa City to Des Plaines: 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 - OtherBest price
307 kmDistance
3h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Iowa City to Des Plaines 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
Bus
Average Duration
6h  24m
Estimated price
$56-107
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$40-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 307 km
Duration: 3h 22m

See more options

Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
5h  34m
Estimated price
$56-109
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$140-236
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$170-480
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  22m
Estimated price
$560-561
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  53m
Estimated price
$562-568

Traveling From Iowa City to Des Plaines

The journey from Iowa City to Des Plaines offers a striking contrast between Iowa's vibrant college-town atmosphere and Des Plaines' bustling suburban life, providing travelers with diverse cultural and recreational experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Plaines

Des Plaines features neighborhoods that cater to various interests and experiences.

Downtown Des Plaines
• Charming shops and restaurants abound.
• Rich cultural events happen year-round.
Lake Opeka
• Scenic views and outdoor activities are plentiful.
• Ideal for family-friendly outings.
Haddow Park
• Quiet atmosphere, great for relaxation.
• Nearby parks offer nature trails and playgrounds.

Best Times To Visit Des Plaines's Attractions

Planning your visit to Des Plaines can enhance your experience at its attractions.

Des Plaines River Trails
Visit early morning or late afternoon for peaceful walks and fewer crowds.
Lake Opeka
Weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience on the lake.
McDaniel Farm Park
Spring and fall weekends offer stunning scenery and pleasant weather.

Des Plaines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Plaines experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall ideal for outdoor activities. Be mindful that varying weather conditions can influence your travel plans, so packing layers and checking forecasts ahead of time can enhance your experience.

Dining Recommendation in Des Plaines

For a taste of something different, try the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, renowned for its rich, buttery crust and hearty toppings, setting it apart from the more casual dining scenes in Iowa City. The lively atmosphere and focus on local ingredients create a unique culinary experience that highlights Chicago's famous pizza culture.

Iowa City - Des Plaines operators

Explore transport companies operating between Iowa City and Des Plaines, 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 Iowa City, Ia to Chicago, Il

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$567-568

Bus from Iowa City, Ia to Davenport, Ia

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$40-565
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Cedar Rapids Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$566-569

Plane from Moline to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$566-569
Website
aa.com

Plane from Cedar Rapids Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$1070-1071

Plane from Waterloo to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$1070-1072

Plane from Moline to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$1070-1071
Website
iflysouthern.com

Plane from Burlington to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$1073-1074

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Iowa City to Des Plaines.

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The distance between Iowa City and Des Plaines is 191 miles. By car, it takes approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes to travel from Des Plaines to Iowa City. If one were to take a bus, it would take around 6 hours and 24 minutes to reach Des Plaines from Iowa City. Another option is to take a bus to Cedar Rapids and then fly, which has a travel time of 5 hours and 46 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Iowa City to Des Plaines is to drive. The road distance is 221.2 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete the journey. Taking a bus or flying may involve longer travel times and potentially higher costs. Driving allows for more flexibility, convenience, and potentially cost savings for this route.
The prices for a bus ticket between Des Plaines and Iowa City can range from $56 to $107. This variation is likely due to factors such as the time of travel, bus company, and availability of discounts or promotions. It's recommended to check with different bus providers or online platforms to find the best deal and ensure a comfortable and affordable journey.
To travel from Iowa City to Des Plaines without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 221 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete the journey by car. The estimated cost of driving from Iowa City to Des Plaines ranges from $40 to $60, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.
To travel from Iowa City to Des Plaines without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 24 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $55 to $110. This is a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for those who do not have access to a car.
The flight between Iowa City and Des Plaines typically takes 1 hour and 12 minutes on a direct flight from Cedar Rapids Airport to Chicago O'Hare Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability, but typically ranges from $100 to $300. It's recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel dates.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Des Plaines, with over 316 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $44 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly options. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a more economical choice, you will find a variety of options to suit your needs. Additionally, there are also several bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals available for those seeking alternative accommodations.