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Bloomington, IL, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $55: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Bloomington to Des Moines: 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.

$55 - DriveBest price
490 kmDistance
4h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bloomington to Des Moines 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
7h  5m
Estimated price
$78-153
Recommended
Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
7h  50m
Estimated price
$60-120
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 490 km
Duration: 4h 59m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  59m
Estimated price
$55-80
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  52m
Estimated price
$128-572
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
6h  28m
Estimated price
$292-780
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
7h  36m
Estimated price
$781-782
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$783-784
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Traveling From Bloomington to Des Moines

The journey from Bloomington to Des Moines offers a fascinating contrast between Bloomington's charming college town vibe and Des Moines' bustling urban energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

Des Moines features a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

East Village
• Vibrant arts scene with local galleries.
• Trendy shops and eateries abound.
Historic Court District
• Rich history with beautiful architecture.
• Home to unique bars and restaurants.
Ingersoll Park
• Lush parks and outdoor spaces for relaxation.
• Diverse dining options showcasing local flavors.

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Des Moines by timing your visits wisely.

Des Moines Art Center
Weekdays in the morning offer a quieter atmosphere for art lovers.
Living History Farms
Visit during weekdays in spring or fall for less crowded tours.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Early mornings or late afternoons provide serene viewing experiences.

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate, featuring hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most favorable seasons for travel. Understanding the weather can help you plan your activities, as summer often brings festivals and outdoor events, while winter invites cozy indoor experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Des Moines

Indulge in a juicy pork tenderloin sandwich at the iconic Kansas City-style BBQ restaurant, Jethro's BBQ, where the smoky flavors and generous portions truly stand out. This experience contrasts with the more traditional pub food found in Bloomington, showcasing a vibrant atmosphere and a commitment to local ingredients that highlight the culinary diversity of Des Moines.

Bloomington - Des Moines operators

Explore transport companies operating between Bloomington and Des Moines, 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 Bloomington Normal, Il to Burlington, Ia

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$60-120

Bus from Burlington, Ia to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$78-153

Bus from Bloomington Normal, Il to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
7h 50m
Estimated price
$60-120

Bus from Bloomington Normal, Il to Peoria Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$60-120
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Bloomington-Normal to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$603-609
Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Bloomington (BMI) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
6h 52m
Estimated price
$128-572

Plane from Bloomington Airport to Des Moines Airport

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
$787-800
Website
delta.com

Plane from Bloomington (BMI) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$600-1533
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Bloomington (BMI) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
5h 23m
Estimated price
$1539-550
Taxi

Taxi from Bloomington to Decatur

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$1534-786

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Bloomington and Des Moines is 254 miles, with a road distance of 304 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By bus, it takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes to reach Des Moines from Bloomington. By car, the travel time is around 4 hours and 59 minutes. Alternatively, flying is the fastest option, with a travel time of 5 hours and 3 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Bloomington to Des Moines would be to drive. It costs around $55-$80 for the road trip, and the travel time is approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes. This option provides the convenience of traveling at your own pace and allows for any necessary stops along the way. Public transportation alternatives such as flying or taking a bus may involve longer travel times and potentially higher costs.
The prices of a bus ticket between Bloomington and Des Moines vary from $78 to $153. This range reflects different factors such as the type of bus service, the time of departure, and availability. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best price and to check different bus operators to compare fares and travel options.
To travel from Bloomington to Des Moines without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 304 miles, and it takes about 4 hours and 59 minutes to complete the journey by car. Rental car prices for this route range from $55 to $80, depending on the provider and vehicle chosen. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of a self-driven trip to Des Moines from Bloomington.
To travel from Bloomington to Des Moines without a car, the best option is to take a bus via West Burlington. This route takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes and the fare ranges from $75 to $160. There are no direct flights between the two cities, so taking a bus is the most convenient and cost-effective choice.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Bloomington and Des Moines. The bus service is operated by Burlington Trailways and departs once daily from Bloomington Normal and arrives at Des Moines. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 50 minutes.
The flight duration between Bloomington and Des Moines typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes, including a layover. However, there are no direct flights available between the two airports, resulting in a stopover. The cost of a flight between Des Moines and Bloomington can range from $318 to $772, depending on various factors such as the time of booking and airline availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Des Moines. There are over 202 hotels available, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in the area start at $36 per night. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotels in Des Moines that offer amenities and locations convenient for exploring the city and its attractions.

Trips from Bloomington

Trips to Des Moines