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Saint Louis, MO, USA to Iowa City, IA, USA from $45: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Saint Louis, United States of America
to
Iowa City, United States of America

How to Get from Saint Louis to Iowa City: 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.

$45 by carBest price
421 kmDistance
4h 9m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Saint Louis to Iowa City 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
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
9h  25m
Estimated price
$57-147
Recommended
route map
Distance: 421 km
Duration: 4h 9m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
9h  29m
Estimated price
$69-221
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  9m
Estimated price
$72-314
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$188-570
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$571-572
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  45m
Estimated price
$573-574
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
9h  58m
Estimated price
$575-576
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Traveling From Saint Louis to Iowa City

The journey from Saint Louis to Iowa City offers a vibrant contrast, with the bustling urban energy of Saint Louis giving way to the charming, laid-back atmosphere of Iowa City's artsy community.

Best Neighborhoods in Iowa City

Iowa City boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for travelers.

Downtown Iowa City
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Abundance of local cafes and restaurants.
Northside
• Historic charm with beautiful 19th-century architecture.
• Bustling nightlife with unique bars and live music.
University Campus
• Home to beautiful parks and green spaces.
• Rich academic atmosphere with cultural events year-round.

Best Times To Visit Iowa City's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Iowa City.

Old Capitol Museum
Visit in early morning for fewer crowds and peaceful exploration.
Iowa Avenue Literary Walk
Weekdays offer a quieter stroll to appreciate the author's tributes.
Devonian Fossil Gorge
Fall showcases stunning foliage and attracts fewer visitors than summer.

Iowa City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Iowa City experiences a humid continental climate, featuring hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Weather can significantly impact your travel experience, with seasonal festivals and outdoor activities best enjoyed in mild conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Iowa City

A must-try dish in Iowa City is the local favorite, a farm-to-table plate featuring seasonal produce and artisanal meats, which showcases the area’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients. This dining experience stands apart from Saint Louis's barbecue scene, offering a more intimate atmosphere where flavors shine and the community’s culinary creativity takes center stage.

Saint Louis - Iowa City operators

Explore transport companies operating between Saint Louis and Iowa City, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from St Louis Lambert Fld to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
9h 25m
Estimated price
$578-1472

Bus from Bloomington Normal, Il to Davenport, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$2212-578

Bus from Davenport, Ia to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$2217-690

Bus from Des Moines, Ia to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$697-2216
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from St. Louis to Bloomington-Normal

Average Duration
2h 44m
Estimated price
$695-696
Plane Show flights
Website
iflysouthern.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Burlington (BRL)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$578-1479

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Quincy (UIN)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$690-579
Website
united.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Cedar Rapids (CID)

Average Duration
4h 31m
Estimated price
$1473-1476

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Moline (MLI)

Average Duration
3h 47m
Estimated price
$1477-1478
Website
delta.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Cedar Rapids (CID)

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$691-5780

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Moline (MLI)

Average Duration
6h 32m
Estimated price
$1470-5780
Website
southwest.com

Plane from St. Louis (STL) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$693-694

Saint Louis to Iowa City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Saint Louis and Iowa City 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 St. Louis to Iowa City covering a distance of 261 miles. Enjoy the Midwest landscapes as you drive for approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. 💵 Depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of driving from St. Louis to Iowa City typically ranges between $45 to $70. Remember to budget for tolls and potential pit stops along the way.
Average price
$45 - $70
🛫 Traveling from Saint Louis to Iowa City by plane is a convenient option. The quickest direct flight from St. Louis Airport to Burlington Airport takes just 1 hour and 10 minutes with Southern Airways Express. 🛄 After landing in Burlington, there's a 6-hour drive to Iowa City, making the total travel time around 8 hours and 10 minutes. The prices for flights between Iowa City and Saint Louis range from $188 to $298, offering a range of options for travelers.
Departure Point
St. Louis Airport
Arrival Point
Burlington Airport
🚌 While there is no direct bus from St. Louis to Iowa City, travelers can board a bus at St. Louis Bus Station and transfer at St. Louis Lambert Fld. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 9 hours and 25 minutes. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Iowa City and St. Louis can range from $57 to $147, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to travel between these two cities.
Departure Point
St Louis Lambert Fld station
Arrival Point
Iowa City, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Saint Louis to Iowa City.

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The cheapest way to get from Saint Louis to Iowa City is by driving. The drive takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes and the estimated cost ranges from $45 to $70, depending on the type of vehicle and current gas prices. This option allows for flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic landscapes along the way. However, be sure to consider any additional costs such as tolls and parking fees during your journey.
The quickest way to travel from Saint Louis to Iowa City is by driving. The estimated travel time is around 4 hours and 55 minutes. The cost of driving can range from $45 to $70 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. There are no direct flights or trains available for this route, so driving would be the fastest option.
It is approximately 222 miles from St. Louis to Iowa City. The driving distance is around 261 miles, depending on the route taken. The exact time it takes to travel between the two cities will depend on traffic and other factors, but it usually takes about 4 hours and 55 minutes to drive.
The most convenient and affordable way to travel from Saint Louis to Iowa City without a car is to take a combination of train and bus. You can take an Amtrak train from St. Louis to Burlington, Iowa, which takes about 5 hours. From Burlington, you can then take a Greyhound bus to Iowa City, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The total travel time is around 9 hours and 29 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $65 to $230.
The journey from Saint Louis to Iowa City takes approximately 9 hours and 29 minutes, including transfers. The actual travel time may vary depending on factors such as traffic and road conditions. It is advisable to plan for rest stops and breaks during the journey to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.
If you are looking for accommodation near Iowa City, there are several options available. With over 41 hotels in the area, you will have a variety of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Iowa City start at $47 per night. It is recommended to book your hotel in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Saint Louis to Iowa City. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 261 miles. It typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes to drive straight through, but this may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly and consider factors such as rest stops and gas refills along the way.
To get from Saint Louis to Iowa City the cheapest way is to drive. It takes about 4 hours and 55 minutes and the estimated cost is between $45 and $70 for gas and toll fees. Another option is to take a bus, with ticket prices ranging from $30 to $60 and a travel time of around 7 hours. If you prefer to fly, there are multiple airlines that offer flights from Saint Louis Lambert International Airport to Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids. The average flight duration is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and ticket prices can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking.
Southern Airways Express is the only airline that offers flights directly between St. Louis Airport and Burlington Airport. However, there are no direct flights from St. Louis to Iowa City. To reach Iowa City from St. Louis by air, you would need to take a connecting flight with another airline, most likely through a larger airport such as Chicago O'Hare or Minneapolis-St. Paul. It is recommended to check with various airlines for the most up-to-date flight options and schedules.
The fastest way to get from Saint Louis to Iowa City is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight from St. Louis Airport to Burlington Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Southern Airways Express offers flights from St. Louis Airport to Burlington Airport. However, the total travel time including getting to and from the airports may take approximately 8 hours and 19 minutes. Flight prices between Iowa City and Saint Louis can range from $178 to $608.
The flight from St. Louis to Iowa City typically takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. This is based on a direct flight from St. Louis Airport to Burlington Airport. However, please note that flight times may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and airline schedules. It is recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date information regarding flight duration.
The cost of a flight from Saint Louis to Iowa City can range from $178 to $608, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deals. Prices may also vary during peak travel seasons, so it is advisable to be flexible with travel dates to potentially find more affordable options.
The cost of a bus ticket from Saint Louis to Iowa City can range from $58 to $122. The price may vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and the type of bus service. It is recommended to book in advance to potentially secure lower fares. Additionally, some bus companies may offer discounts for students, seniors, or other groups, so be sure to check for any available promotions.
The cost of driving from Saint Louis to Iowa City can range from $45 to $70. This estimate factors in expenses such as gas, tolls, and potential parking fees. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may depend on factors such as the type of vehicle, current fuel prices, and any additional stops or detours along the way. Additionally, it is always recommended to check for any construction or road conditions that could affect travel time and cost.

Trips from Saint Louis

Trips to Iowa City