- Must visit
Ellwood House Museum
A restored 1879 Victorian mansion and estate interpreting DeKalb history, architecture, and the barbed wire era. One of the city's best-known heritage attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$79
Average price
$79
Fastest journey
6 h 25 m
Average duration
6 h 25 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
405 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Des Moines, IA for DeKalb, IL on Sat, Jun 20, 1 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 405 km distance in an average of 6 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 25 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 6 h 25 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.
5:30 AM6h25Des Moines, IA11:55 AMDeKalb, IL$791One-way0 transfers
- 5:30 AM6h25Des Moines, IA11:55 AMDeKalb, IL$791One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a flight costs an average of $200.
Distance: 251 miles (405 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$52 Average price Cheapest | $200 Average price | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 55m Average total duration 6h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration Fastest 1h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL is a bus with an average price of $52 (€43).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL:
A bus is $147 (€121) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL costing on average $200 (€163).
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 35m.
Other travel options to DeKalb, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL 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 $52 (€43) compared to roughly $55 (€45) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $3 (€2). The journey takes 6h 25m versus 3h 58m 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.
Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 23h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 23h30 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $52 |
Live departures
Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL buses for tomorrow, 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, IA | 6h25 | 11:55 AM DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, 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 20
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Why should you book Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL.
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 DeKalb, IL.
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 DeKalb, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $52 (€43) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:30, the last at 09:25. The fastest bus covers the 251 miles (405 km) distance in 6h 25m.
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 251 miles (405 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $52 (€43) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 6h 25m |
First bus 5:30 AM |
Last bus 9:25 AM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 DeKalb, ILYou can travel by bus between Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL with Greyhound for as low as $52 (€43). 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
6h 25m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
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 DeKalb
Things to do in DeKalb
Discover the best of DeKalb — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect DeKalb trip today.
- Recommended
Joseph F. Glidden Homestead and Historical Center
Historic homestead of Joseph Glidden, inventor of a successful barbed wire design. Small but important local museum for agricultural and industrial history.
- Recommended
NIU Art Museum
University art museum with rotating exhibitions of contemporary, regional, and global art. A strong cultural stop on the Northern Illinois University campus.
- Must visit
Downtown DeKalb
The city's main walking district with historic buildings, murals, shops, events, and the Egyptian Theatre. The best area for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Northern Illinois University Campus
A broad walkable campus with collegiate architecture, museums, public art, and green spaces. A key area shaping DeKalb's identity.
- Recommended
Prairie Park
Large community park with trails, open lawns, sports areas, and a relaxed local atmosphere. Good for a casual walk or picnic.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, sport peppers, a pickle spear, and celery salt. It is a classic Northern Illinois favorite often found around DeKalb
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thin-sliced roast beef simmered in seasoned jus and served on a long roll, often dipped and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is one of the most iconic regional sandwiches near DeKalb
- Vegetarian
Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. While associated with Chicago, it is a familiar special-occasion dish across Northern Illinois
The Junction Eating Place
A popular breakfast and lunch spot known for skillets, pancakes, sandwiches, and friendly small-town diner service
Ellwood Steak and Fish House
An established steakhouse offering steaks, seafood, and classic American dishes in a polished, traditional setting suitable for a nicer dinner
Fatty's Pub and Grille
A long-running DeKalb favorite known for burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and a lively sports-pub atmosphere with a broad beer selection
United States Dollar
Costs are generally lower than in major U.S. cities. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and upscale dining vary by season and events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 8-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 15-30 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 40-70 per person at an upscale restaurant.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants before tax. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or add 10-15% for taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.
FAQs: Bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL can start from as little as $52 (€43) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL is $52 (€43) ; 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 DeKalb, IL is 6h 25m to travel the 251 miles (405 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 DeKalb, IL leaves at 5:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL leaves at 9:25 AM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to DeKalb, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Des Moines, IA and DeKalb, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to DeKalb, IL from Des Moines, IA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and DeKalb, IL including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, 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.
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 DeKalb, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL:
- 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 DeKalb, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-frequented areas. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services or vendors. It is advisable to use licensed transportation and remain aware of surroundings, particularly at night, to 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 Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL
Most Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL buses use the to Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall) station pair. Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and DeKalb, 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 DeKalb
Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall)
City-centre transport
Getting to Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall) from DeKalb city centre
Bus12, 16, 17 · 20m · $1 · every ~9 min
Most popular bus connections from Des Moines, IA
More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to DeKalb, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from DeKalb, IL and Des Moines, IA
Most popular bus connections to DeKalb, IL
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