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Lincoln, NE, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $30: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Lincoln 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.

$30 - OtherBest price
303 kmDistance
3h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Lincoln 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
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
3h  48m
Estimated price
$55-102
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  8m
Estimated price
$30-50
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 303 km
Duration: 3h 8m

See more options

Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
7h  59m
Estimated price
$157-573
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Lincoln to Des Moines

The journey from Lincoln to Des Moines offers a striking contrast between Lincoln's vibrant college-town energy and Des Moines' charming blend of urban sophistication and artistic flair.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

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

Downtown
• Home to vibrant arts and entertainment districts.
• Features a mix of dining options and shops.
East Village
• Known for its trendy boutiques and cafes.
• Hosts local events and farmer's markets year-round.
West Glen
• Offers upscale shopping and dining experiences.
• Features a lively nightlife scene with bars and music venues.

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

Finding the right time to explore Des Moines enhances your experience.

Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Visit early morning or late afternoon for a quieter atmosphere and beautiful lighting.
Des Moines Art Center
Weekdays are ideal; fewer visitors allow for a more relaxed viewing.
State Capitol Building
Early afternoons on weekdays offer fewer crowds and excellent tour opportunities.

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate, featuring hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant seasons to visit. Weather greatly influences your travel experience, as summer offers plenty of outdoor activities while winter's cold can create a cozy, indoor atmosphere.

Dining Recommendation in Des Moines

Try the pork tenderloin sandwich at The Red Monocle, a local favorite that showcases the Midwest's emphasis on comfort food with a kick. This dish offers a unique fusion of flavors and a relaxed, quirky atmosphere that stands in contrast to Lincoln's more conventional dining scene.

Lincoln - Des Moines operators

Explore transport companies operating between Lincoln and Des Moines, 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 Lincoln, Ne to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$552-553
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Lincoln (LNK) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
6h 24m
Estimated price
$140-550

Plane from Lincoln (LNK) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
6h 39m
Estimated price
$140-550

Plane from Lincoln (LNK) to Des Moines (DSM)

Average Duration
7h 59m
Estimated price
$150-550

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

Traveling between Lincoln 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.

🚗 The scenic drive from Lincoln to Des Moines covers a distance of 188 miles, perfect for a weekend road trip adventure. 💸 Prices to travel by car from Lincoln to Des Moines range from $30 to $50, providing an affordable option for those looking to explore both cities. ⏰ With an approximate driving time of 3 hours and 8 minutes, travelers can enjoy the Midwest landscapes and make memorable pit stops along the way.
Average price
$30 - $50
🛫 Travelers flying from Lincoln to Des Moines will find that there are no direct flights available between these two cities. The quickest route with one stopover typically takes about 6 hours and 13 minutes. 🌎 United Airlines operates flights from Lincoln Airport to Des Moines Airport, providing a convenient option for those looking to reach their destination. The total duration of the journey by plane is approximately 7 hours and 59 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Des Moines and Lincoln can vary, with fares ranging from $157 to $573 depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. It's advisable to compare different options to find the best deal for your trip.
Departure Point
Lincoln Airport
Arrival Point
Des Moines Airport. The quickest flight takes 6h 13m and has one stopover
🚌 The bus journey from Lincoln to Des Moines takes approximately 3 hours and 48 minutes, making it a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities. 💰 Ticket prices for a bus ride between Des Moines and Lincoln typically range from $55 to $102, providing budget-friendly options for travelers seeking an affordable transportation choice.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Lincoln and Des Moines is approximately 169 miles or 188.5 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By plane, it takes around 7 hours and 36 minutes to reach Des Moines from Lincoln. By car, the journey takes about 3 hours and 8 minutes to reach Lincoln from Des Moines. Finally, by bus, it takes approximately 3 hours and 48 minutes to travel from Lincoln to Des Moines.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Lincoln to Des Moines is to drive. The road distance between the two cities is 188.5 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes to reach the destination by car. Driving also offers the benefit of flexibility and convenience, allowing travelers to make stops or detours along the way if desired. Additionally, driving is relatively inexpensive, with estimated costs ranging from $30 to $50 for fuel and any tolls that may be incurred.
The prices for a bus ticket between Lincoln and Des Moines range from $55 to $102. These prices may vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and any promotional offers. It is recommended to check with different bus service providers and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey. Additionally, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure lower prices and avoid any last-minute price hikes.
To travel from Lincoln to Des Moines without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 188 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 8 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of driving from Lincoln to Des Moines can vary, typically ranging between $30 to $50, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current fuel prices.
The best way to travel from Lincoln to Des Moines without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 48 minutes and the cost is between $50 and $110. You can find bus schedules and book tickets through various bus services. This option allows you to sit back and relax while someone else handles the driving, making it a convenient and budget-friendly choice.
The flight between Lincoln and Des Moines typically takes around 5 hours and 50 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights between the two cities. The cost of a flight can vary ranging from $307 to $1023, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best available options and prices for this route.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Des Moines. With over 202 hotels available, there is a wide range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices start at $36, making it possible to find affordable options. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there are plenty of choices available in the area.

Trips from Lincoln

Trips to Des Moines