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Rockford, IL, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $87: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Rockford 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.

$87 - Bus, PlaneBest price
383 kmDistance
3h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rockford 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
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$204-635
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
7h  20m
Estimated price
$87-387
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 383 km
Duration: 3h 58m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
12h  15m
Estimated price
$99-209
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
10h  34m
Estimated price
$104-194
Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  19m
Estimated price
$104-194
Company
Various
Taxi
Train
Bus
Average Duration
12h  36m
Estimated price
$184-2040
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  41m
Estimated price
$2041-2042
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Traveling From Rockford to Des Moines

The journey from Rockford to Des Moines showcases a shift from Rockford's vibrant outdoor parks and art scene to Des Moines' rich cultural events and dynamic culinary landscape.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

Des Moines boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Downtown Des Moines
• Home to vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
Historic East Village
• Features local boutiques and artisanal shops.
• Rich in history with stunning architecture.
West Des Moines
• Known for its upscale shopping and dining experiences.
• Offers beautiful parks and recreational opportunities.

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

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

Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Early mornings on weekdays offer peace and fewer visitors.
Des Moines Art Center
Visit during off-peak hours, like Tuesday afternoons, for a quieter experience.
Iowa State Capitol
Take advantage of weekday mornings for a less crowded tour.

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Moines experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters, making each season unique for visitors. Spring and fall are ideal times to explore, as mild temperatures create comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

Dining in Des Moines: A Culinary Contrast

Try the farm-to-table dishes at The Café in Des Moines, where fresh local ingredients blend into a delightful palette of flavors that stands in stark contrast to Rockford's culinary scene. The inviting atmosphere and commitment to sustainability here elevate your dining experience, allowing you to savor the vibrant tastes of the Midwest in a way Rockford simply can’t offer.

Rockford - Des Moines operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Rockford,IL-Rockford Bus Terminal to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$879-870

Bus from Rockford,IL-Rockford Bus Terminal to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$3870-870

Bus from Rockford,IL-Rockford Bus Terminal to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$3871-870
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$63595-6355

Bus from Davenport, Ia to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$877-63590

Bus from Galesburg, Il to Burlington, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$3874-877

Bus from Burlington, Ia to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$877-63590
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Train Station to Davenport Ground Transportation Ctr

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$878-63590
Train
Contact phone
+1 312-322-6777
Website
https://metra.com

Train from Harvard to Chicago OTC

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$6357-6358
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Galesburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 38m
Estimated price
$6359-6355

Train from Rockford Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Des Moines

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$2047-2048
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Des Moines

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$2047-2048
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-815-963-3322

Other from Rockford to Harvard

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$2045-2049

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

Traveling between Rockford 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 Rockford to Des Moines covering a distance of 286 miles. The journey promises picturesque views and smooth highways for approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes of driving time. 💵 Traveling from Rockford to Des Moines by car offers budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $50 to $75 for the trip. Whether you prefer solo exploration or a group adventure, the affordable cost of driving makes this journey accessible to all.
Average price
$50 - $75
🛫 Begin your adventure from Rockford by catching a flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Des Moines Airport. The direct flight takes just 1 hour and 17 minutes, making it a quick and efficient journey.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Des Moines Airport
🚌 The bus journey from Rockford to Des Moines takes approximately 10 hours and 34 minutes, offering passengers a comfortable and scenic ride through the heartland of the Midwest. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between Rockford and Des Moines can range from $104 to $194, depending on the time of booking and any available promotions or discounts.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Rockford and Des Moines is 238 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 286.2 miles. If you opt for a combination of bus and flight, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 2 minutes. On the other hand, if you prefer to drive, it takes about 4 hours and 41 minutes. If you decide to take a bus for the entire journey, expect a travel time of around 12 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Rockford to Des Moines is by driving, which takes approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes and costs around $50 to $75 in fuel expenses. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the fastest way to reach Des Moines is by taking a bus to Chicago O'Hare and then flying, which takes about 4 hours and 2 minutes but can cost between $140 to $550 depending on the airline and time of booking. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency will depend on the traveler's preferences and budget.
The prices for a bus ticket from Rockford to Des Moines range from $99 to $209. It is important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as travel dates and booking methods. It is recommended to compare prices from various bus companies and book in advance to secure the best fare for your journey.
To travel from Rockford to Des Moines without using public transportation, you can drive the 286-mile distance which takes around 4 hours and 41 minutes. The driving route offers flexibility and allows you to experience the scenic views along the way. Depending on factors like gas prices and the vehicle used, the cost of the trip by car typically ranges from $50 to $75.
To travel from Rockford to Des Moines without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 34 minutes and can cost between $100 to $200, depending on the bus service and availability. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic route while avoiding the stress of driving and finding parking. It is recommended to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance for a smoother travel experience.
The flight between Rockford and Des Moines typically takes 1 hour and 21 minutes on a direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Des Moines Airport. However, it's important to note that Rockford does not have its own commercial airport. The closest major airport to Rockford is Chicago Rockford International Airport, which is about 90 miles away. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the time of year and airline, but flights between these two cities often range from around $200 to $400 round trip.
There are over 202 hotels available in Des Moines for accommodations start at $36 per night. Some popular hotel options in the area include Hilton Des Moines Downtown, Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel, and Residence Inn Des Moines Downtown. Travelers can choose from a range of options based on their preferences and budget.

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