4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$50
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$53
Fastest journey on Sep 19
6 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
8 h 17 m
Buses on Sep 19
3
Distance
495 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA will cost around $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 buses from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct buses cover the 495 km distance in an average of 8 h 17 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 30 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest buses will take 9 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
12:25 PM6h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:55 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$501One-way0 transfers- 6:10 AM8h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:35 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$531One-way0 transfers
- 8:50 AM9h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:45 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$551One-way0 transfers
- 12:25 PM6h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:55 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$501One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 AM8h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:35 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$531One-way0 transfers
- 8:50 AM9h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:45 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$551One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $80 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 34m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $80, while a flight costs an average of $651.
Distance: 307 miles (495 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$80 Average price Cheapest | $651 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 38m Average total duration 8h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 34m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA:
A bus is $571 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA costing on average $651.
Other travel options to Des Moines, IA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 8m.
Tickets start at around $80 compared to roughly $79 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-0.54. The journey takes 8h 8m versus 5h 4m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 02:35PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $38 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 8h25 | 2:35 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:50 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 9h55 | 6:45 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 6h30 | 6:55 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sep 18
Sep 19
Sep 20
Sep 21
Sep 22
Sep 23
Sep 24
Sep 25
Sep 26
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Sep 30
Oct 01
Why should you book Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA buses with Omio?
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:30, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 307 miles (495 km) distance in 6h 30m.
Distance 307 miles (495 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 6h 30m |
First bus 5:30 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 days |
Bus providers: Greyhound, Infobus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with Greyhound, Infobus for as low as $42. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Infobus
Greyhound
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Des Moines, IA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA
Most Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) station pair, with some services arriving at Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Des Moines, IA leave from?
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Getting to Chicago from Chicago city centre
Chicago is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago bus station facilities and services
Chicago has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Fast food outlets are available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Which Des Moines, IA station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Getting to Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) from Des Moines city centre
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) is 3 km from Des Moines city centre. Public transport options include:
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) bus station facilities and services
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.). ATMs are available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Wheelchair accessible buses available.
Getting to Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St from Des Moines city centre
Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St is 2 km from Des Moines city centre. Public transport options include:
Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St bus station facilities and services
Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St. ATMs are available at Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St: Accessible for passengers with limited mobility.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Des Moines, IA and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Des Moines, IA
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