How to Get to Des Moines From Chicago [2025-2026 Guide]
Travel from Chicago to Des Moines by plane in 1.5 hours, bus in 7–8 hours, or car in 5.5–6 hours. Flights, buses, and driving routes explained clearly.
To travel from Chicago to Des Moines, you can fly nonstop in 1.5 hours, take a Greyhound or FlixBus in 7–8 hours, or drive about 330 miles in 5.5 hours.
✈️ Flying from Chicago to Des Moines
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Des Moines. Nonstop flights are available from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), taking just 1 hour 30 minutes. Airlines like American, United, and Southwest operate daily routes. From DSM, downtown Des Moines is about 5 miles (15 minutes) by taxi, rideshare, or rental car.
🚌 Taking a Bus from Chicago to Des Moines
For a budget-friendly choice, Greyhound and FlixBus offer direct buses from Chicago to Des Moines. The trip takes 7–8 hours depending on traffic and route. Buses typically depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive at the Des Moines Bus Station. This option is slower but much cheaper compared to flying.
🚆 Can You Take a Train from Chicago to Des Moines?
Currently, there is no direct Amtrak service to Des Moines. The nearest Amtrak stop is in Osceola, Iowa, about 45 miles south of Des Moines. Travelers can take the California Zephyr line from Chicago to Osceola (about 7.5 hours) and then complete the journey by shuttle, taxi, or car rental.
🚗 Driving from Chicago to Des Moines
Driving is a great option if you prefer flexibility. The distance between Chicago and Des Moines is about 330 miles (530 km) via I-88 and I-80 West, with a driving time of 5.5 to 6 hours. The route is straightforward and passes through scenic Midwest towns, making it a comfortable road trip option.
✅ Summary Table
| Travel Option | Duration | Cost Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | 1.5 hours | $120–$250 | Fastest, direct flights daily |
| Bus | 7–8 hours | $40–$80 | Budget-friendly |
| Train + Car | 7.5 hrs + 45 mi | $90–$150 | Requires transfer from Osceola |
| Driving | 5.5–6 hours | Gas $60–$90 | Flexible, scenic Midwest drive |
🌍 Travel Tips for Chicago to Des Moines
- Best for speed: Flying nonstop to DSM.
- Best for budget: Bus travel with FlixBus or Greyhound.
- Best for flexibility: Driving, especially if you want to explore Iowa towns along the way.
- Book flights early for lower fares, especially during summer and holidays.
- If driving, consider stopping in Iowa City for a halfway break.
❓ FAQs on Getting to Des Moines from Chicago
Q1. How long is a flight from Chicago to Des Moines?
About 1 hour 30 minutes nonstop.
Q2. Is there a direct train from Chicago to Des Moines?
No, the closest Amtrak station is Osceola, Iowa, about 45 miles away.
Q3. How far is Des Moines from Chicago by car?
Roughly 330 miles (530 km), about 5.5–6 hours of driving.
Q4. What’s the cheapest way to get from Chicago to Des Moines?
The bus, costing $40–$80, is the most budget-friendly.
Q5. Which airlines fly from Chicago to Des Moines?
American, United, and Southwest operate nonstop daily flights.