- Must visit
Columbus Museum of Art
Major art museum known for American and European collections, strong modern and contemporary holdings, and rotating exhibitions in a central downtown setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$115
Average price
$120
Fastest journey
17 h 20 m
Average duration
19 h 45 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
911 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH will cost around $120 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $115.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH without transferring at least once.
· · 9:20 AM18h55Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA5:15 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1151One-way2 transfers- · +
FlixBus4:20 PM23h50Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA5:10 PMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH$1151One-way2 transfers - · 4:20 PM20h35Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA1:55 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1171One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus9:20 AM17h20Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA3:40 AMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH$1221One-way1 transfer
- · · 5:30 AM18h05Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA12:35 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1311One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus9:20 AM17h20Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA3:40 AMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH$1221One-way1 transfer
- · · 5:30 AM18h05Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA12:35 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1311One-way2 transfers
- · · 9:20 AM18h55Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA5:15 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1151One-way2 transfers
- · 4:20 PM20h35Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA1:55 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1171One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus4:20 PM23h50Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA5:10 PMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH$1151One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $247. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $247, and a flight costs an average of $408.
Distance: 566 miles (911 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$252 Average price Cheapest | $408 Average price | $126 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
23h 38m Average total duration 23h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 15m Average total duration Fastest 4h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH is a bus with an average price of $252 (€207).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH:
A bus is $156 (€128) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH costing on average $408 (€334).
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 15m.
Other travel options to Columbus, OH take longer:
Bus takes on average 23h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
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 Columbus, OH Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 18h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $108 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 03:40AM | Duration 18h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 03:40AM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 20h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $105 |
Live departures
Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH bus times
The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH buses for today, Saturday, June 20. 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 | 18h05 | 12:35 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 9:20 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 18h55 | 5:15 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 9:20 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 17h20 | 3:40 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 1 transfer | |
| · +FlixBus | 4:20 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 23h50 | 5:10 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 2 transfers | |
| · | 4:20 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 20h35 | 1:55 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH 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 21
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Why should you book Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 Columbus, OH.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- 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 Columbus, OH.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH
USAUSA
Buses from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH run on average 4 times per day, taking around 23h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $247 (€202) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:45, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 566 miles (911 km) distance in 19h 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 566 miles (911 km) |
Average bus duration 23h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $247 (€202) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 19h 5m |
First bus 3:45 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OHYou can travel by bus between Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH with Greyhound for as low as $247 (€202). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
19h 5m
Cheapest Price
$247 (€202)
Greyhound frequency
1 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 Columbus
Things to do in Columbus
Discover the best of Columbus — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbus trip today.
- Must visit
COSI
Large science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly interactive galleries on the Scioto riverfront.
- Recommended
Wexner Center for the Arts
Contemporary art center at The Ohio State University featuring exhibitions, film, and experimental visual culture in a notable modern building.
- Must visit
Short North Arts District
Columbus's best-known walkable district for galleries, murals, boutiques, and nightlife, with strong street life and high visitor appeal.
- Must visit
Scioto Mile
Riverfront park system with promenades, bridges, lawns, and skyline views, ideal for walking, biking, and sunset photos.
- Must visit
German Village
Historic brick neighborhood known for preserved streetscapes, charming houses, and one of the city's most distinctive walking environments.
Columbus-Style Pizza
Thin-crust pizza cut into squares, a long-standing local favorite in Columbus pizzerias. It is known for a crisp crust and edge-to-edge toppings.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Buckeye Candy
A classic Ohio sweet made from peanut butter fudge partially dipped in chocolate to resemble the buckeye nut. It is one of the region’s most recognizable treats.
Johnny Marzetti
A baked pasta casserole with ground beef, tomato sauce, cheese, and noodles. It is strongly associated with Columbus and central Ohio home cooking.
Lindey’s
Established upscale American restaurant in German Village, known for polished service, a classic menu, and a refined patio setting.
Katzinger’s Delicatessen
Beloved German Village deli serving stacked sandwiches, Jewish deli classics, and casual counter-service comfort food.
Mitchell’s Ocean Club
Polished fine-dining steak and seafood restaurant at Easton, known for a sophisticated atmosphere and special-occasion dining.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Meals and transport are reasonable, while downtown hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-100+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 1-5, and round up for coffee jars if desired.
FAQs: Bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH can start from as little as $247 (€202) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH is $252 (€207) ; 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 Columbus, OH is 19h 5m to travel the 566 miles (911 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 Columbus, OH leaves at 3:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Columbus, OH. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Des Moines, IA and Columbus, OH and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Columbus, OH from Des Moines, IA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 19h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Columbus, OH including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Columbus, OH are:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a renowned zoo featuring diverse animal exhibits and conservation programs
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a horticultural landmark with seasonal exhibitions and a stunning glasshouse
- Ohio Statehouse, a Greek Revival-style capitol building offering guided tours and historical insights
- Scioto Mile, a scenic urban oasis with parks, fountains, and trails along the Scioto River
- Wexner Center for the Arts, a contemporary art gallery showcasing innovative exhibitions and performances.
The best things to do in Columbus, OH include:
- COSI (Center of Science and Industry), an interactive science museum offering hands-on exhibits and educational programs
- Short North Arts District, a vibrant neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, and dining options
- German Village, a historic area with charming brick streets, unique shops, and traditional German cuisine
- North Market, a bustling public market featuring diverse food vendors and local products
- Columbus Museum of Art, offering engaging exhibitions and a dynamic collection of American and European art.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Columbus, OH.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular nightlife districts. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and fake ticket sellers for events. It's advisable to use authorized transportation options and stay in well-lit, populated areas to enhance 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 Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH
Des Moines
Columbus
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
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Most popular bus connections from Des Moines, IA
More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to Columbus, OH
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Most popular buses to and from Columbus, OH and Des Moines, IA
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