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Chicago, IL, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $60: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago to Des Moines: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$60 by busBest price
501 kmDistance
3h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  14m
Estimated price
$110-456
Recommended
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$60-143
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 501 km
Duration: 3h 14m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$60-1101
Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$65-130
Company
Amtrak and various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
8h  53m
Estimated price
$73-1100
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  25m
Estimated price
$160-726
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Traveling From Chicago to Des Moines

Traveling from Chicago to Des Moines reveals a shift from the bustling city life and vibrant cultural scene of Chicago to the charming, laid-back vibe of Des Moines, where you can enjoy a more relaxed pace and local hospitality.

Best Neighborhoods in Des Moines

Des Moines boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

East Village
• Trendy shops and boutiques line the streets.
• Home to a vibrant arts and dining scene.
West Glen
• Offers upscale shopping and entertainment options.
• Features a picturesque outdoor lifestyle with parks.
Historic Court Avenue District
• Known for its lively nightlife and eateries.
• Rich in history with beautiful architecture.

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

To truly enjoy the major attractions in Des Moines, timing is key.

Des Moines Art Center
Visit on weekdays during the morning for a quieter experience.
Blank Park Zoo
Arrive early on weekends to enjoy fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Iowa State Capitol
Weekday afternoons offer a peaceful time for exploration and photos.

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times for travel. Weather patterns can significantly influence your activities, so packing appropriately for seasonal changes enhances your visit.

Dining Recommendation in Des Moines

Try the legendary smoked brisket at A Dong, a local favorite that showcases Des Moines' talent for BBQ while highlighting Midwestern flavors and hospitality. This experience contrasts with Chicago's more urban culinary scene, offering a cozy atmosphere where local ingredients shine.

Chicago - Des Moines operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Des Moines

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$130-1103
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Des Moines

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$110-600
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Des Moines

Average Duration
4h 24m
Estimated price
$1104-1105

Plane from Chicago Midway to Des Moines

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$160-1105

Plane from Chicago Midway to Des Moines

Average Duration
5h 28m
Estimated price
$1106-1105
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Des Moines

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$130-1107

Plane from Chicago Midway to Des Moines

Average Duration
6h 12m
Estimated price
$1106-650
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
7h 5m
Estimated price
$65-130

Bus from Burlington, Ia to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$4568-60
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Train Station to Davenport Ground Transportation Ctr

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$600-60
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Galesburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 38m
Estimated price
$1108-4560

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

Traveling between Chicago and Des Moines 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 Chicago to Des Moines, covering a distance of 334 miles. Enjoy the Midwest landscapes as you make your way through Illinois and Iowa. 💵 Experience budget-friendly travel with prices ranging from $60 to $90 for the journey by car. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of driving at your own pace and making pit stops along the way. 🌽 Immerse yourself in the heartland charm as you reach Des Moines after approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes of driving. Explore the city's cultural attractions, vibrant dining scene, and friendly locals for a memorable Midwest adventure.
Average price
$60 - $90
🚆 Embark on an exciting train journey from Chicago to Des Moines spanning 698 miles. The first route entails a single transfer, with a scenic bus ride to Minneapolis taking around 8 hours and 35 minutes, followed by a 5-hour bus journey to reach the vibrant city of Des Moines. 🌆 For a slightly longer but equally enriching adventure, consider the second route covering 719 miles with two transfers. Begin by boarding a bus to Madison from Chicago Union Station, followed by a journey to Minneapolis before finally reaching Des Moines after a total travel time of 16 hours and 50 minutes.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to Des Moines, you'll be traveling with Amtrak, which offers a Cafe Car with a range of snacks, sandwiches, beverages, and light meals. Make sure to check out their menu onboard for local specialties!
• Amtrak provides various seating options for this route, including Business Class and Coach Class. Business Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, and extra legroom. Coach Class is the standard option, which is comfortable and budget-friendly.
• The main operator for this route is Amtrak (amtrak.com). Another operator is the Illinois and Iowa Railway (iowacentral.com), but they might not run regular passenger services on this route. For local transportation information in Des Moines, check the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) site at (dartiowa.com)
🛫 Traveling from Chicago to Des Moines can be a quick and convenient journey by plane. The quickest direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Des Moines Airport takes only 1 hour and 17 minutes. ✈️ Both United Airlines and American Airlines provide flights between Chicago O'Hare Airport and Des Moines Airport, making it easy to find a suitable flight option for your trip. The total travel time to reach Des Moines from Chicago by plane is approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Des Moines and Chicago can vary, typically ranging from $110 to $456, offering travelers a range of options to fit their budget and travel preferences. Whether for business or leisure, flying between these cities offers a convenient and efficient travel experience.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Des Moines Airport
🚌 The direct bus from Chicago to Des Moines takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes, with services operating three times a day, every day. Burlington Trailways is the operator for this route, making travel convenient and reliable. 💰 Prices for bus tickets between Des Moines and Chicago can range from $60 to $143, giving travelers a budget-friendly transportation option for their journey. Whether opting for a direct trip or exploring transfer routes, passengers can enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride to their destination.
Departure Point
Chicago, Il station
Arrival Point
Des Moines, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Chicago and Des Moines is approximately 311 miles. By various modes of transportation, the typical travel times are as follows: it takes 8 hours and 53 minutes by train and bus, 3 hours and 18 minutes by plane, 5 hours and 30 minutes by car, and 8 hours and 55 minutes by bus. These times may vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and other factors.
The most cost-effective method of travel from Chicago to Des Moines is driving, as it costs around $60-$90 and takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 18 minutes. While it may be more expensive, with prices ranging from $110-$450, it offers significant time savings compared to driving.
The prices for a bus from Chicago to Des Moines vary between $60 and $143. It is important to note that these prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of year, demand, and availability. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to find the best deal and secure your preferred price for the journey.
To get from Chicago to Des Moines without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 334 miles, and it takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes to drive. The cost of this journey can vary, with prices ranging from $60 to $90, depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Chicago to Des Moines is by bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $65 to $130. Taking the bus allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of driving.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Des Moines. Burlington Trailways operates a bus service that departs from Chicago and arrives in Des Moines. There are three daily departures and the journey takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes. This is a convenient option for travelers looking to travel directly between the two cities.
The flight between Chicago and Des Moines typically takes 1 hour and 21 minutes. The prices for flights on this route can range from $114 to $446, depending on various factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and the class of service. It is important to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Des Moines. With over 202 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a suitable place to stay based on their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Des Moines start at $36 per night, providing affordable options for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly accommodations, or cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of options available to cater to different needs and preferences.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Des Moines