- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$64
Average price
$93
Fastest journey
6 h 10 m
Average duration
7 h 50 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
495 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL will cost around $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Des Moines, IA for Chicago, IL on Fri, Jun 19, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct buses cover the 495 km distance in an average of 7 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 10 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest buses will take 10 h 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.
5:30 AM8h05Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA1:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$641One-way0 transfers- 9:45 AM10h00Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA7:45 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$681One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 AM7h05Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$961One-way0 transfers
011:15 PM6h10Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St5:25 AMChicago, IL$1441One-way0 transfers
- 011:15 PM6h10Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St5:25 AMChicago, IL$1441One-way0 transfers
- 9:20 AM7h05Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$961One-way0 transfers
- 5:30 AM8h05Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA1:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$641One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 AM10h00Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA7:45 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$681One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a flight costs an average of $91.
Distance: 307 miles (495 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$78 Average price Cheapest | $289 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 28m Average total duration 7h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 1h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 12m 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $78 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $212 (€173) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL costing on average $289 (€236).
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 34m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -3h -46m sooner (7h 58m by bus vs 5h 12m by car) and save roughly $-0.91 (€-0.74) compared to fuel and tolls ($78 (€63) vs $77 (€63)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Greyhound.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $136 |
Live departures
Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:30 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 8h05 | 1:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:20 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 7h05 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:45 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 10h00 | 7:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 11:15 PM Des Moines, Grand Ave & 10th St | 6h10 | 5:25 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL 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 19
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Jun 21
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Jun 25
Why should you book Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.
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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.
- 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.
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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:30, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 307 miles (495 km) distance in 7h 5m.
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 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€34) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 7h 5m |
First bus 5:30 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $42 (€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
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
7h 5m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€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 Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum famous for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and extensive science collections that appeal to both adults and children.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park featuring a submarine, space exhibits, engineering displays, and immersive family-friendly experiences.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
The city’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, events, and major skyline views that define modern Chicago.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, hotels, and frequent first-time visitor photo stops.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Highly popular waterfront promenade with architecture views, bridges, and one of the best urban walks in the city.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
Gene & Georgetti
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is manageable, but hotels, attractions, and downtown dining can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
FAQs: Bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $42 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is $78 (€63) ; 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is 7h 5m 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL leaves at 5:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Des Moines, IA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Des Moines, IA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
- Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
- Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
- Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
- Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
- Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
- Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
- Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
- Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL:
- 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Chicago, IL 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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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 Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL
Most Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL buses use the to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago. Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Des Moines
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
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
Most popular bus connections from Des Moines, IA
More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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