Detroit, MI, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $77: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$77 - Train, night busBest price

968 kmDistance

4h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit 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.

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Traveling From Detroit to Des Moines

The journey from Detroit to Des Moines offers a striking shift from the bustling urban vibes of a major city to the welcoming charm of Iowa's capital, where a slower pace and rich local culture await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

Des Moines boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with distinct character and charm.

Downtown Des Moines

• Home to vibrant nightlife and dining options

• Features modern architecture and cultural venues

East Village

• Known for its eclectic shops and boutiques

• Hosts farmers' markets and local events

Historic Valley Junction

• Offers charming historic buildings and art galleries

• Farmers' market draws locals, creating a lively atmosphere

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Des Moines's attractions.

Des Moines Art Center

Visit on weekdays early in the morning for a quieter, more intimate experience.

Blank Park Zoo

Aim for late afternoons on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

Visit during the fair's opening hours for fewer crowds and easier access.

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather can influence your travel plans, so be prepared for varying conditions depending on the season.

Dining in Des Moines: A Taste of Local Flavor

Be sure to try the famous pork tenderloin sandwich at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, which showcases the region’s love for hearty, farm-fresh ingredients. This dish offers a rustic experience that stands in contrast to Detroit's diverse urban dining, emphasizing the warmth of local flavors and a community-centered atmosphere.

Detroit - Des Moines operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

delta.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration

1h 57m

Estimated price

$5731-5732

Website

aa.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration

4h 30m

Estimated price

$5735-5736

Website

united.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration

4h 29m

Estimated price

$5739-5738

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Dearborn to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

5h 11m

Estimated price

$770-1285

Train from Chicago Union Station to Galesburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration

2h 38m

Estimated price

$2520-2521

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 5m

Estimated price

$776-2142

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration

15h 10m

Estimated price

$92-219

Contact phone

1(800) 992-4618

Website

burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2140-2521

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

Traveling between Detroit 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 an exciting road trip from the bustling city of Detroit to the charming capital of Iowa, Des Moines. With a driving distance of 601 miles, get ready for a scenic journey through the heart of the Midwest. 💰 Explore cost-effective options for the journey, as prices to travel from Detroit to Des Moines by car can range from $100 to $160. Plan ahead and consider factors like gas, snacks, and potential pit stops along the way to make the most of your budget. 🛣️ Enjoy a leisurely 9-hour and 52-minute drive filled with changing landscapes, small-town charm, and the joy of the open road as you make your way from Detroit to Des Moines your favorite road trip playlist and savor the experience of exploring the beauty of the Midwest firsthand.

Average price

$100 - $160

🛫 Experience a convenient and efficient journey with a quick direct flight from Detroit Airport to Des Moines Airport, taking only 1 hour and 57 minutes. Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines provide flight options for this route. 🛄 Covering a distance of 4 hours and 3 minutes, flying from Detroit to Des Moines offers a smooth and timely travel experience. Enjoy the comfort and amenities of the flight while making your way to your destination in Iowa's capital city. 💰 The cost of flights between Detroit and Des Moines can range from $128 to $573, offering flexibility based on your budget and preferences.

Departure Point

Detroit Airport

Arrival Point

Des Moines Airport

🌆 The journey on the bus, operated by Greyhound USA and Burlington Trailways, takes approximately 15 hours and 10 minutes including transfers. 💰 The prices for a bus trip between Detroit and Des Moines range from $92 to $219, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two cities in the United States.

Departure Point

Detroit Bus Station

Arrival Point

Des Moines, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Detroit and Des Moines is 548 miles. By taking a train and then a night bus, the typical travel time is 14 hours and 39 minutes. If you choose to fly, the travel time is significantly shorter at 4 hours and 5 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes around 9 hours and 52 minutes to reach Detroit from Des Moines. Lastly, taking a bus would take approximately 15 hours and 10 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Detroit to Des Moines is by taking a bus via Ann Arbor, which costs around $90-$270 and takes approximately 16 hours and 10 minutes. This option may be suitable for travelers on a budget. However, for a quicker journey, flying is the most time-efficient choice. It takes about 4 hours and 5 minutes and costs between $160 and $650.

The prices of bus tickets between Des Moines and Detroit vary depending on the provider and the specific date and time of travel. On average, prices range from $90 to $284. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, prices may be subject to change, so it is advisable to book tickets in advance to secure the lowest price.

To travel from Detroit to Des Moines without using public transportation, your best option is to drive. The road distance between the two cities is 601 miles, and it takes approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes to complete the journey by car. You can expect to spend around $100 to $160 on gas and tolls, depending on the current prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Be sure to plan for rest stops and consider the cost of accommodation if you decide to split the drive into multiple days.

To travel from Detroit to Des Moines without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 15 hours and 3 minutes and the cost ranges from $75 to $260. You can start by taking a train from Detroit to Chicago and then transfer to a night bus from Chicago to Des Moines. This is a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities without a car.

Yes, there is a indirect link between Detroit and Des Moines. There is no direct bus service between the two cities, but it is possible to travel by bus with a transfer in Chicago, IL. The journey takes approximately 15h 10m, including the transfers. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Burlington Trailways.

The flight between Detroit and Des Moines typically takes 1 hour and 58 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary from $168 to $623 depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability. It's always recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your specific travel dates.

There are over 202 hotels available in Des Moines. Prices for accommodations in the city start at $36 per night. Some popular options for staying near Des Moines include various chain hotels, boutique hotels, and bed and breakfasts. Travelers can easily find a suitable accommodation based on their budget and preferences in the city.

Detroit, MI, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $77: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Detroit to Des Moines

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining in Des Moines: A Taste of Local Flavor

Detroit - Des Moines operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Detroit

Trips to Des Moines

Popular routes