Milwaukee, WI, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $69: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$69 - Train, busBest price

499 kmDistance

4h 18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee to Des Moines

The journey from Milwaukee to Des Moines offers a fascinating contrast, with Milwaukee bustling with lakeside energy and cultural vibrancy, while Des Moines invites you to explore its charming blend of Midwestern hospitality and modern innovation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Des Moines

Des Moines boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Downtown Des Moines

• Home to trendy restaurants and cafes.

• Hosts numerous annual festivals and events.

West Des Moines

• Features upscale shopping and dining options.

• Offers great parks and outdoor activities.

Historic East Village

• Showcases unique boutiques and local artisans.

• Rich in history with stunning architecture.

Best Times To Visit Des Moines's Attractions

Planning your visit? Here are great tips for enjoying Des Moines attractions.

Des Moines Art Center

Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter experience and fewer crowds.

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

Early mornings or weekdays offer a peaceful environment for art appreciation.

Iowa State Fairgrounds

Visit in the early hours during the fair for an enjoyable, less crowded experience.

Des Moines Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate, offering hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Be prepared for seasonal weather changes, as they can significantly impact your outdoor plans and travel experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Des Moines

Try the famous pork tenderloin sandwich at Jethro's BBQ, a staple that showcases the rich flavors of Midwestern barbecue in a casual and lively setting. Unlike Milwaukee's renowned cheese-based dishes, Des Moines offers a vibrant culinary scene that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and hearty, bold flavors.

Milwaukee - Des Moines operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

aa.com

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Des Moines Airport (DSM)

Average Duration

5h 23m

Estimated price

$5730-1698

Website

delta.com

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Des Moines Airport (DSM)

Average Duration

4h 54m

Estimated price

$5731-1695

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Des Moines Airport (DSM)

Average Duration

6h 45m

Estimated price

$1699-1698

Website

united.com

Plane from Milwaukee Airport (MKE) to Des Moines Airport (DSM)

Average Duration

4h 54m

Estimated price

$1699-16920

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Milwaukee to Chicago Union Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$5734-75

Train from Chicago Union Station to Galesburg Amtrak Station to Galesburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration

2h 38m

Estimated price

$694-695

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

1h 55m

Estimated price

$2047-20440

Contact phone

1(800) 992-4618

Website

burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Des Moines, Ia

Average Duration

10h

Estimated price

$1692-695

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Milwaukee Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2047-5738

Contact phone

+1 262-671-2538

Website

coachusa.com

Bus from Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration

1h 50m

Estimated price

$2043-2044

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

Traveling between Milwaukee 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 picturesque journey from Milwaukee to Des Moines, spanning 374 miles of Midwest beauty. Feel the excitement building as you anticipate the 6-hour drive that lies ahead. 💸 Budget-friendly options abound, with car travel costs ranging from $65 to $100. Prepare for a smooth ride and enjoy the flexibility and freedom that come with hitting the open road.

Average price

$65 - $100

🌆 Enjoy the bustling city views as you transfer from Chicago - Milwaukee - Madison - Minneapolis. After a comfortable 5-hour ride, hop on another bus towards Des Moines for the final leg of your trip. Contact Jefferson Lines at 1 800-8898 for details and reservations.

Useful tips for train travellers

Onboard Services: Amtrak is the primary operator for your journey from Milwaukee to Des Moines. They offer a café car where you can purchase snacks and beverages, including options for coffee, sandwiches, and other light fare. It's advisable to check Amtrak's website for the latest menu and operating hours of the café car.

Seating Options: On Amtrak trains, you will find different seating classes. There is Coach Class (Economy) with roomy recliner seats that come with fold-down trays, as well as Business Class, which provides more spacious seating and amenities like complimentary beverages. However, the service level may vary, so you might want to check the Amtrak website for specific details regarding your train type.

Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at the Des Moines station, there may not be dedicated luggage storage, so you will need to plan accordingly if you have bags. The station has public restrooms; however, shower facilities are not available. Ensure you have everything you need before leaving the train. The station is not very large, so navigating it should be straightforward.

🛫 Flying from Milwaukee to Des Moines involves a flight with one stopover, taking approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes. Airlines like Southwest, American, Delta, and United provide this route. 🌟 The total travel time by plane between these cities is around 5 hours and 5 minutes. Although there is no direct flight available, the journey is relatively efficient with a single layover. 💸 Flight prices for trips between Milwaukee and Des Moines can range from $169 to $573, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a suitable option based on their budget and preferences.

Departure Point

Milwaukee Airport

Arrival Point

Des Moines Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 27m and has one stopover

🛤️ The journey by bus, including transfers, typically lasts approximately 10 hours before reaching Des Moines 💵 Fares for the Milwaukee to Des Moines bus route can range from $75 to $175, with options operated by Flixbus USA and Burlington Trailways available for travelers.

Departure Point

Milwaukee station

Arrival Point

Des Moines, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Milwaukee and Des Moines is 310 miles or 374.5 miles by road. The typical travel time by train and bus is 9 hours and 43 minutes, while by plane it takes around 5 hours and 1 minute. If you're traveling by car, you can expect the journey to take around 6 hours and 8 minutes. Taking a bus from Des Moines to Milwaukee has a typical travel time of 9 hours and 50 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Milwaukee to Des Moines is to drive, with a cost of $65-$100. This mode of transportation also takes 6 hours and 8 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the fastest option is to take a combination of bus and fly, which takes 4 hours and 22 minutes. This option is more expensive, with a cost ranging from $110 to $450.

The prices of a bus ticket between Des Moines and Milwaukee can range from $74 to $160. The exact price will depend on factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and any additional amenities offered. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus providers and book in advance to secure the best deal.

To travel from Milwaukee to Des Moines without using public transportation, the best option would be to drive by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 374 miles, and it would take around 6 hours and 8 minutes to drive from Milwaukee to Des Moines. The prices for car rentals in this route usually range from $65 to $100, depending on the specific rental company and the type of vehicle chosen.

The best way to travel from Milwaukee to Des Moines without a car is by taking a train and then a bus. This journey takes approximately 9 hours and 43 minutes and the cost ranges from $65 to $210. The train provides a comfortable and scenic route, and then transferring to a bus allows for convenience and easy transportation to your destination in Des Moines.

Unfortunately, there is no direct link between Milwaukee and Des Moines by bus. However, there are bus services available that require a transfer in Chicago, IL. The journey typically takes around 9 hours and 50 minutes, including transfers. Megabus and Burlington Trailways operate these services, with departures from Milwaukee and arrivals at Des Moines.

The flight between Milwaukee and Des Moines typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes with one stopover. Prices for flights between the two cities can range from $169 to $433. However, it's important to note that there is no direct flight available, so passengers will have to factor in the layover time as well.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Des Moines. With over 202 hotels available, you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Prices for hotels in Des Moines start at $36 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury or a budget-friendly stay, there are plenty of hotels to choose from in Des Moines.

Milwaukee, WI, USA to Des Moines, IA, USA from $69: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Milwaukee 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 Recommendation in Des Moines

Milwaukee - Des Moines operators

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

Useful tips for train travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Milwaukee

Trips to Des Moines

Popular routes