1map logoGo to main page

Rochester, MN, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $35: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Rochester 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.

$35 - OtherBest price
338 kmDistance
3h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rochester 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
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
5h  21m
Estimated price
$34-89
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
$35-55
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 338 km
Duration: 3h 27m

See more options

Company
Delta, American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$45-340
Company
Groome Transportation, Amtrak, Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$59-129
Company
Groome Transportation, Amtrak, Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$61-133
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$341-342
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Rochester to Des Moines

Experience the vibrant charm of Rochester, with its artistic flair and natural beauty, seamlessly transitioning to Des Moines, a lively hub known for its cultural vibrancy and bustling arts scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

Des Moines boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience.

East Village
• Trendy shops and boutiques line the vibrant streets.
• Enjoy farm-to-table dining and local breweries.
West Des Moines
• Family-friendly parks and recreational spaces available.
• Major shopping centers provide plenty of retail options.
Historic Court District
• Rich in history with beautifully preserved architecture.
• Hosts numerous popular events and festivals year-round.

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Des Moines with these helpful tips for visiting attractions.

Des Moines Art Center
Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and uninterrupted exploration.
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Early mornings or late afternoons yield peaceful strolls with fewer crowds.
State Capitol Building
Choose a Monday or Friday for guided tours with smaller groups.

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 ideal for comfortable travel. Weather can affect outdoor activities and events, so planning around seasonal changes enhances your experience.

Dining Recommendation in Des Moines

Try the famous coffee-infused barbecue ribs at the sensational BBQ joint, Smokey D's, which showcases a rich, smoky flavor that differs from Rochester’s farm-to-table approach. This lively dining atmosphere, combined with locally sourced ingredients, offers a distinct taste of Iowa's culinary heritage.

Rochester - Des Moines operators

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

Other Show other routes

Other from Rochester to Albert Lea, MN

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$890-891

Other from Albert Lea, MN to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
Estimated price
$34-89
Bus
Contact phone
+ 1 507-280-9270
Website
groometransportation.com

Bus from Groome Transportation Office - Rochester to Minneapolis / St Paul Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$893-45

Bus from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
Estimated price
$59-129
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Albert Lea, MN to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
Estimated price
$34-89

Bus from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport to Des Moines, IA

Average Duration
Estimated price
$59-129

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

Average Duration
Estimated price
$61-133
Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Rochester (RST) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
4h 31m
Estimated price
$346-347
Website
aa.com

Plane from Rochester (RST) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
4h 28m
Estimated price
$345-349

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

Traveling between Rochester 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 Rochester to Des Moines spanning 210 miles of picturesque Midwest landscapes. Lose yourself in the charm of the Heartland as you cruise towards your destination. 💵 Explore budget-friendly travel options with car prices ranging from $35 to $55 for the journey from Rochester to Des Moines. Enjoy the economic efficiency and flexibility of a road trip while soaking in the sights along the way.
Average price
$35 - $55
🛫 Flying from Rochester to Des Moines involves a one-stop flight, with Delta and American Airlines providing options for this route. The total travel time is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. 🌐 The quickest flight from Rochester Airport to Des Moines Airport takes 3 hours and 5 minutes. While there are no direct flights available, the stopover does not significantly add to the overall journey time. 💸 Prices for flights between Des Moines and Rochester range from $45 to $300, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and schedule. Planning ahead and comparing ticket prices can help secure the best deal for this trip.
Departure Point
Rochester Airport
Arrival Point
Des Moines Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 5m and has one stopover
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Rochester to Des Moines travelers can take a bus from Groome Transportation Office in Rochester with a transfer at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. The total journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes. 🚌 The bus services from Rochester to Des Moines are operated by Groome Transportation and Jefferson Lines. Departing from Groome Transportation Office - Rochester station, passengers will arrive at Des Moines after the 6-hour journey. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Des Moines and Rochester can range from $59 to $129. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable and affordable journey by bus to reach their destination in Des Moines from Rochester.
Departure Point
Groome Transportation Office - Rochester station
Arrival Point
Des Moines, IA station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Rochester to Des Moines is to drive. It takes approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes to drive the 178-mile distance between the two cities. The cost of driving is relatively low, ranging from $35 to $55, making it the cheapest option available. Additionally, driving allows for flexibility and convenience as there is no need to rely on schedules or wait for transportation.
The prices for a bus ticket between Des Moines and Rochester can vary between $59 and $129. It's important to keep in mind that these prices can change depending on factors such as date and time of travel, as well as the chosen bus company. It is recommended to check the websites of different bus companies or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Rochester to Des Moines without public transportation, you can opt to drive your own car. The driving distance is approximately 210 miles and it takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes. The cost of driving varies, but you can expect to spend between $35 to $55 for fuel, depending on the current gas prices.
To travel from Rochester to Des Moines without a car, the best option is to take a shuttle and bus. This journey typically takes around 5 hours and 16 minutes. Prices for this mode of transportation can range from $30 to $90. This option provides a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination.
There is no direct transportation link between Rochester and Des Moines. However, you can take a shuttle and then a bus to reach Des Moines from Rochester. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 16 minutes. Alternatively, you can also fly from Rochester to Des Moines, which takes around 5 hours and 42 minutes. If you prefer driving, it will take you approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes to reach Rochester from Des Moines by car.
The flight duration between Rochester and Des Moines can vary depending on the specific flight and any layovers. The quickest flight option takes approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes with one stopover. As for the cost, ticket prices range between $161 and $680, depending on factors such as the airline, class of service, and booking date. It is recommended to check with various airlines and travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight durations and prices.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Des Moines. You can choose from over 202 hotels in the area, with prices starting at $36 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone's preferences and budget. Some popular hotels in the area include the Des Lux Hotel, The Current Iowa, and the Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown.

Trips from Rochester

Trips to Decorah