- Must visit
National Civil Rights Museum
World-class civil rights museum at the Lorraine Motel. Essential for understanding the movement, Dr. King, and the American struggle for justice.
Cheapest price
$106
Average price
$110
Fastest journey
14 h 10 m
Average duration
17 h 23 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
781 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN 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 Memphis, TN will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $106.
It's difficult to get from Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN without transferring at least once.
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· · | Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 20h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $103 |
The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN buses for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· · | 4:55 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 20h35 | 1:30 AM Memphis, Airways Transit Center | 2 transfers | |
· | 4:20 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 14h10 | 6:30 AM Memphis, Airways Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus 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.
Buses from Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN run on average 2 times per day, taking around 17h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $238 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:55, the last at 18:40. The fastest bus covers the 485 miles (781 km) distance in 17h 15m.
Distance 485 miles (781 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $238 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 17h 15m |
First bus 4:55 AM |
Last bus 6:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Discover the best of Memphis, TN — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Memphis, TN trip today.
World-class civil rights museum at the Lorraine Motel. Essential for understanding the movement, Dr. King, and the American struggle for justice.
Major museum of Memphis music history inside a former recording studio. A must for soul, blues, and rock fans exploring the city's sound.
Interactive museum on Stax Records and Southern soul legends. Worth visiting for Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and immersive music storytelling.
Memphis's legendary entertainment street, famous for live music, neon, and history. A classic walk for atmosphere, nightlife, and cultural identity.
Mississippi riverfront park with broad lawns, monuments, and skyline views. Ideal for an easy walk and classic river scenery.
Large urban park with old-growth forest, trails, playgrounds, and zoo access. Excellent for nature, families, and a break from downtown.
Memphis-style pork ribs are slow-smoked over hardwood, usually served dry-rubbed or lightly sauced. They are the city’s most iconic barbecue tradition.
Pulled pork shoulder is smoked until tender, chopped or shredded, and often topped with slaw. It is a staple of Memphis barbecue joints.
Barbecue spaghetti mixes smoked pork, tomato-based sauce, and spaghetti. This quirky Memphis specialty reflects the city’s barbecue creativity.
Beloved traditional barbecue spot famous for pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, and barbecue spaghetti. Casual and deeply tied to Memphis food culture.
Historic fine dining destination serving refined Southern cuisine and an acclaimed brunch. Elegant setting inside a former mansion in Midtown.
Long-running Memphis institution for fried chicken and Southern sides. Bustling, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong local following.
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels and dining are generally below New York or Miami, while car, rideshare, and attraction costs can add up.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts; small tips are appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN 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 Memphis, TN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Des Moines, IA to Memphis, TN buses use the to Memphis, Airways Transit Center station pair. Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and Memphis, TN bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
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