- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
One of America’s top fine arts museums, spanning antiquity to modern works. A must for major collections, architecture, and rotating exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$138
Average price
$186
Fastest journey
1 d 6 h 30 m
Average duration
1 d 9 h 38 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
1326 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX will cost around $186 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $138.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX without transferring at least 2 times.
· · · 4:20 PM30h30Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA10:50 PMHouston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), TX$1381One-way3 transfers- · +
FlixBus4:20 PM36h45Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA5:05 AMHouston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station), TX$2331One-way2 transfers
- · · · 4:20 PM30h30Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA10:50 PMHouston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), TX$1381One-way3 transfers
- · +FlixBus4:20 PM36h45Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA5:05 AMHouston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station), TX$2331One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $137. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $137, and a flight costs an average of $161.
Distance: 823 miles (1326 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight |
|---|---|
$212 Average price Cheapest | $353 Average price |
34h 15m Average total duration 33h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 26m Average total duration Fastest 3h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX is a bus with an average price of $212.
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX:
A bus is $141 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX costing on average $353.
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 26m.
Other travel options to Houston, TX take longer:
Bus takes on average 33h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Houston, TX including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX among Omio's users.
Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 36h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $230 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 30h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $138 |
Live departures
Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX bus times
The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 4:20 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 30h30 | 10:50 PM Houston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), TX | 3 transfers | |
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 Houston, TX 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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Why should you book Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as Jefferson Lines offer buses services from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX.
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 Jefferson Lines to find the best option for your trip from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX.
- 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 Houston, TX.
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 Houston, TX.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX
USAUSA
Buses from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX run on average 2 times per day, taking around 33h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $137 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 823 miles (1326 km) distance in 30h 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 823 miles (1326 km) |
Average bus duration 33h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $137 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 30h 30m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, Jefferson Lines from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TXYou can travel by bus between Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX with Greyhound, Jefferson Lines for as low as $137. 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
30h 30m
Cheapest Price
$137
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.
Jefferson Lines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
21h 50m
Cheapest Price
$286
Jefferson Lines frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Houston, TX
Things to do in Houston, TX
Discover the best of Houston, TX — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Houston, TX trip today.
- Must visit
Space Center Houston
Premier space museum with spacecraft, simulators, and NASA history. Essential for understanding Houston’s link to human spaceflight.
- Must visit
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Large natural science museum known for dinosaurs, gems, and immersive displays. A family favorite with broad appeal and strong exhibits.
- Must visit
Discovery Green
Houston’s signature urban park with skyline views, events, lawns, and public art. A central gathering place for visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Hermann Park
Museum District green space with trails, gardens, and major attractions nearby. Ideal for a scenic walk between Houston’s top institutions.
- Must visit
Buffalo Bayou Park
Former rail corridor turned urban trail with art, landscaping, and skyline glimpses. A modern favorite for walking and casual exploration.
- Gluten-free
Texas Smoked Brisket
Slow-smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark. Central Texas barbecue is a Houston staple thanks to the city’s strong smokehouse culture.
Tex-Mex Fajitas
Spiced beef or chicken fajitas served sizzling with onions and peppers. Houston helped popularize Tex-Mex restaurant fajitas nationwide.
Breakfast Tacos
Warm flour tortillas filled with breakfast staples like egg, potato, bacon, or chorizo. A daily Houston favorite shaped by Texas Mexican food culture.
State of Grace
Refined Gulf Coast fine dining with polished service and seasonal seafood. One of Houston’s most acclaimed upscale restaurants.
The Pit Room
Highly regarded barbecue spot serving brisket, ribs, and sausage in a simple, old-school setting loved by locals and visitors.
Huynh Restaurant
Beloved casual Vietnamese restaurant famous for garlic noodles, shaken beef, and fusion dishes that reflect Houston’s diverse food scene.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. cities: hotels vary widely, dining is reasonable, and car-based transit can add costs for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual spots.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts.
RideMETRO
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $1.25
- Day pass
- $3
To the city center
University of Houston / UH South -> Central Station Main, Houston, TX
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- METRO local bus and METRORail fares are typically paid in the RideMETRO app, Q Card, or cash. Exact cash is usually required on buses.
- METRORail connects the University of Houston area to Downtown. Check service alerts in RideMETRO before travel.
FAQs: Bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX can start from as little as $137 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX is $212 ; 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 Houston, TX is 30h 30m to travel the 823 miles (1326 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 Houston, TX leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX which require at least one change with Greyhound, Jefferson Lines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX, you can count on Greyhound, Jefferson Lines for the best way to get you to Houston, TX. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Des Moines, IA and Houston, TX and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Houston, TX from Des Moines, IA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 30h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Houston, TX including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX for bus company Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Houston, TX are:
- Space Center Houston, an educational complex offering exhibits and tours related to NASA's space exploration
- Houston Museum of Natural Science, featuring extensive collections of fossils, gems, and ancient artifacts
- Houston Zoo, home to over 6,000 animals from around the world in a lush, 55-acre park
- Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, showcasing a diverse collection of art from antiquity to the present
- Buffalo Bayou Park, a 160-acre green space with trails, gardens, and views of the downtown skyline.
The best things to do in Houston, TX include:
- Visit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the largest livestock exhibition and rodeo in the world, featuring concerts and carnival attractions
- Explore the vibrant street art and murals in the Houston Heights neighborhood
- Enjoy a performance at the Houston Symphony, offering a range of classical and contemporary music
- Discover the culinary scene with a food tour in the diverse neighborhoods of Houston
- Attend a game at Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros, for an exciting baseball experience.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX:
- 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 Houston, TX:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Houston, TX 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, pickpocketing, and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Scams to watch out for include fake ticket sellers, overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers, and street vendors offering counterfeit goods. Staying in well-lit areas, using authorized transportation, and securing personal belongings can help minimize 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 Houston, TX
Most Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX buses use the to Houston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Houston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station). Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and Houston, TX 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 Houston
Houston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Houston, Harrisburg Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station) from Houston city centre
Bus020 · 28m · $1 · every ~19 min
020 · 35m · $2 · every ~19 min
Tram800 · 12m · $2 · every ~26 min
800 · 17m · $2 · every ~26 min
800 · 24m · $2 · every ~26 min
Houston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Houston, Gray St Parking (Bus Station) from Houston city centre
Bus244, 247, 249 · 12m · $1 · every ~14 min
North Houston (Tidwell Transit Center)Houston, TX 77093, USA
Most popular bus connections from Des Moines, IA
More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to Houston, TX
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Most popular buses to and from Houston, TX and Des Moines, IA
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