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Minneapolis, MN, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $43: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Minneapolis 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.

$43 by busBest price
393 kmDistance
2h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Minneapolis 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
Delta
Plane
Average Duration
2h  42m
Estimated price
$160-405
Recommended
Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
5h  39m
Estimated price
$43-114
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 393 km
Duration: 2h 42m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$40-110
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$40-65
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Traveling From Minneapolis to Des Moines

Embarking on the journey from Minneapolis to Des Moines reveals a shift from the vibrant urban energy of a major city to the charming, laid-back atmosphere of Iowa's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

Des Moines boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and experiences.

Downtown Des Moines
• Bustling area with trendy restaurants and shops.
• Home to cultural attractions like the Science Center.
East Village
• Features unique boutiques and local cafés.
• Hosts popular events and farmers markets throughout the year.
West Des Moines
• Known for its family-friendly parks and recreation options.
• Offers upscale shopping at the Jordan Creek Town Center.

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

Planning your visit to Des Moines? Timing can make all the difference in your experience.

Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting.
Des Moines Art Center
Weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere, ideal for art lovers.
Science Center of Iowa
Mornings or evenings during weekdays are less busy and more enjoyable.

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Moines experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall ideal for exploring the city. Weather can impact your travel experience, so packing layers and checking forecasts can help you better enjoy outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Des Moines

Try the pork tenderloin sandwich at the iconic Jethro's BBQ, which embodies the hearty, down-to-earth flavor profile that defines Des Moines' culinary scene. This experience stands out from Minneapolis, showcasing local ingredients in a casual atmosphere that's perfect for savoring the Midwest's comfort food twist.

Minneapolis - Des Moines operators

Explore transport companies operating between Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis (MSP) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$130-1600
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Minneapolis to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$40-110

Bus from Mall of America - Bloomington, MN to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
5h 39m
Estimated price
$43-114

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

Traveling between Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis to Des Moines covering 244 miles, offering a perfect blend of urban landscapes and countryside views. 💰 Plan your budget wisely, as the cost of driving from Minneapolis to Des Moines ranges from $40 to $65, ensuring a budget-friendly journey. ⏱️ With a driving time of approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes, enjoy the convenience and flexibility of exploring the diverse attractions along the route at your own pace.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚆 Experience the scenic journey from Minneapolis to Des Moines by train, with a travel time of around 6 hours and 16 minutes covering a distance of 267 miles. Begin your trip with a bus transfer at Burnsville Transit Station en route to Des Moines via Jefferson Lines. 🌟 Choose from multiple routes for your adventure, each offering different travel durations and distances. Whether you opt for the 5-hour, 11-minute trip or the slightly longer journeys, the journey promises a hassle-free and memorable experience.
🛫 Prepare for a short and convenient journey from Minneapolis to Des Moines by taking a direct flight with Delta Airlines. The flight time is just 1 hour and 12 minutes, making it a quick trip. 🌎 Upon arrival at Des Moines Airport, you can expect a total travel time of approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes. This efficient route allows you to reach your destination in a timely manner. 💸 Prices for flights between Des Moines and Minneapolis can range from $160 to $405, giving travelers flexibility in choosing a flight that suits their budget and schedule. Enjoy a smooth and hassle-free travel experience on this domestic route.
Departure Point
Minneapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Des Moines Airport
🚌 Traveling from Minneapolis to Des Moines by bus is a convenient option with four daily services offered by Jefferson Lines. The journey typically takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Des Moines and Minneapolis vary between $40 to $110, providing an affordable and comfortable travel option for those looking to explore the route.
Departure Point
Minneapolis station
Arrival Point
Des Moines, IA station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Start your journey at the Minneapolis Jefferson Lines station; make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early to check in and find your bus, especially during peak travel times. Check schedules at Jefferson Lines: jeffersonlines.com
• Enjoy the scenic views during your trip—this route crosses through beautiful parts of Minnesota and Iowa; consider bringing snacks or a light meal since the trip takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes, and dining options may be limited on board.
• Upon arriving at the Des Moines station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the local transit system, which includes DART buses that can take you to various destinations in the city; check their schedule and routes at ridedart.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Minneapolis and Des Moines is approximately 236 miles by road. The typical travel time by car is around 3 hours and 59 minutes. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus, which takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes. If you are in a hurry, the quickest option is to fly, with a typical travel time of 2 hours and 48 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Minneapolis to Des Moines is to drive, as it costs between $40 and $65. This mode of transportation also takes approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying would be the best choice, even though it is more expensive, ranging from $150 to $410 and taking 2 hours and 48 minutes.
The prices for a bus ticket from Minneapolis to Des Moines can range from $40 to $110 depending on various factors such as time of booking, bus company, and amenities offered. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best prices. Additionally, prices for other modes of transportation like flights and car rentals may also vary, so it's advisable to compare different options before making a decision.
To get from Minneapolis to Des Moines without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance between the two cities is 244 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 59 minutes to drive. The cost of the journey can vary between $40 to $65 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
The easiest way to travel from Minneapolis to Des Moines without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes and the fares range from $40 to $110. There are no direct flights between the two cities, so taking a bus is a convenient and affordable option. Another option is to take a train, but this would involve multiple transfers and could take longer than the bus journey.
Yes, there is a direct link between Minneapolis and Des Moines. Jefferson Lines operates a bus service that departs from Minneapolis and arrives in Des Moines four times a day. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. This is a convenient option for traveling between the two cities.
The flight between Minneapolis and Des Moines typically takes 1 hour and 18 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from $150 to $405. It is advisable to check with different airlines and book in advance to find the best deal for your travel.
There are over 202 hotels available in Des Moines with prices starting at $36. Some popular options include the Hilton Des Moines Downtown, Residence Inn by Marriott Des Moines Downtown, and Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown. These hotels offer a range of amenities and are conveniently located near attractions and transportation options. Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodation types to suit their budget and preferences.

Trips from Minneapolis

Trips to Des Moines