- Must visit
Des Moines Art Center
Major contemporary and modern art museum with a respected collection and notable architecture by Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and Richard Meier.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$56
Average price
$82
Fastest journey
6 h 30 m
Average duration
7 h 40 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
495 km
Cheap tickets
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 $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Des Moines, IA on Sat, Jun 20, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 495 km distance in an average of 7 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 30 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 9 h 5 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.
6:10 AM8h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:35 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$561One-way0 transfers- 8:50 AM9h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:45 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$661One-way0 transfers
06:30 AM9h05Chicago, IL3:35 PMDes Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St$691One-way0 transfers- 12:25 PM6h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:55 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$701One-way0 transfers
- 011:00 AM7h10Chicago, IL6:10 PMDes Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St$1141One-way0 transfers
- 12:25 PM6h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:55 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$701One-way0 transfers
- 011:00 AM7h10Chicago, IL6:10 PMDes Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St$1141One-way0 transfers
- 04:00 PM7h10Chicago, IL11:10 PMDes Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St$1191One-way0 transfers
- 6:10 AM8h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2:35 PMDes Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA$561One-way0 transfers
- 06:30 AM9h05Chicago, IL3:35 PMDes Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St$691One-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 prices starting from $41. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, and a flight costs an average of $76.
Distance: 307 miles (495 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$78 Average price Cheapest | $256 Average price | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 19m Average total duration 7h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 28m Onboard + 3h 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is a bus with an average price of $78 (€64).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA:
A bus is $178 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA costing on average $256 (€210).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 28m.
Other travel options to Des Moines, IA take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $78 (€64) compared to roughly $78 (€64) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $0.17 (€0.14). The journey takes 7h 49m 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.
Direct services are operated by Greyhound.
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 $44 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $114 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 11:10PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $119 |
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, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | |
| 0 | 4:00 PM Chicago, IL | 7h10 | 11:10 PM Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 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 | |
| 0 | 6:30 AM Chicago, IL | 9h05 | 3:35 PM Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St | 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 | |
| 0 | 11:00 AM Chicago, IL | 7h10 | 6:10 PM Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St | 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.
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Jun 20
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Why should you book Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
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 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 or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of 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 2 times per day, taking around 7h 49m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $41 (€34) if you book in advance.
There are 2 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.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 307 miles (495 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 (€34) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
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 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $41 (€34). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
19h 15m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 30m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€34)
Greyhound frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Des Moines
Things to do in Des Moines
Discover the best of Des Moines — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Des Moines trip today.
- Recommended
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Museum covering Iowa history through permanent and rotating exhibits, located in the State Historical Building near the Capitol complex.
- Recommended
Salisbury House & Gardens
Historic house museum inspired by English manor architecture, featuring art, books, antiques, and landscaped grounds.
- Must visit
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Downtown sculpture park featuring major contemporary works in an open urban green space, highly popular for walks and photos.
- Must visit
East Village
Trendy neighborhood east of the river known for independent shops, murals, historic streetscapes, and a lively local atmosphere.
- Must visit
Principal Riverwalk
Signature downtown walking area along the Des Moines River with bridges, lighting, event spaces, and skyline views.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
An Iowa classic: a pork cutlet pounded thin, breaded, fried, and served on a bun, often comically larger than the bread. It is one of the state's most iconic comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Sweet Corn
Iowa sweet corn is a summer staple, prized for its tenderness and natural sweetness. It is commonly eaten grilled, boiled, or buttered at fairs, cookouts, and seasonal meals.
Loose Meat Sandwich
A seasoned ground beef sandwich served loose on a bun rather than formed into a patty. It is a longtime Midwestern lunch-counter favorite strongly associated with Iowa.
Aposto at the Scala House
A respected fine-dining venue in a historic house, serving refined American and Italian-influenced dishes in an intimate setting. A strong choice for a special night out.
801 Chophouse
An upscale steakhouse known for classic service, prime steaks, and an elegant atmosphere. It is one of Des Moines' best-known options for a high-end dinner.
Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
A popular Des Moines burger spot known for creative burgers, boozy shakes, and a lively horror-themed atmosphere. A dependable place to try a strong local casual dining favorite.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in major coastal cities, though downtown and event periods cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for casual services.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA can start from as little as $41 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is $78 (€64) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is 6h 30m to travel the 307 miles (495 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA leaves at 5:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Des Moines, IA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Des Moines, IA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA:
- 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Des Moines, IA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Des Moines, IA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake ticket sellers for local events and unofficial ride services. Staying alert in busy downtown spots and using authorized transportation options helps ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
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 station pair. 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.
Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Des Moines
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
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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