- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum of Art
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
Cheapest price on Sep 17
$142
Average ticket price on Sep 17
$142
Fastest journey on Sep 17
1 d 2 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
1 d 2 h 50 m
Buses on Sep 17
1
Distance
1561 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA will cost around $142 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.
It's difficult to get from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA without transferring at least 2 times.
· ·
· · Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $233 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 3m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $233, while a flight costs an average of $629.
Distance: 969 miles (1561 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$233 Average price Cheapest | $629 Average price | $221 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 43m Average total duration 27h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 3m Average total duration Fastest 5h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 16h 6m 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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA:
A bus is $396 (€323) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $629 (€512).
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Bus takes on average 27h 13m.
Tickets start at around $233 (€190) compared to roughly $221 (€180) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-11.78 (€-9.59). The journey takes 27h 13m versus 16h 6m 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.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 26h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 39h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $145 |
The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA buses for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· · | 9:20 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 26h50 | 1:10 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 27h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $118 (€96) but you can travel from only $67 (€55) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 01:50, the last at 22:30. The fastest bus covers the 969 miles (1561 km) distance in 23h 55m.
Distance 969 miles (1561 km) |
Average bus duration 27h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $118 (€96) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 23h 55m |
First bus 1:50 AM |
Last bus 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Discover the best of Philadelphia, PA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia, PA trip today.
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
Hands-on science museum for all ages, known for interactive exhibits and the giant walk-through heart near the Parkway.
Celebrated collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern works in an intimate gallery setting on the Parkway.
Historic district packed with foundational sites, cobblestone streets, and museums. The best base for first-time visitors.
Beloved park atop a hill with skyline views, trails, and the Rocky Steps approach. Great for walking and photography.
Walkable district of rowhouses, boutiques, and small parks. A classic local neighborhood for architecture and relaxed city strolling.
A long roll packed with thin-sliced beef and melted cheese, often with fried onions. It is Philadelphia's signature street and comfort food.
A soft pretzel with a distinct figure-eight twist and chewy texture. Sold by street vendors and bakeries, it is a classic Philadelphia snack.
A roast pork sandwich with garlicky pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe. Many locals consider it the city's best traditional sandwich.
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant by Chef Marc Vetri, known for refined Italian tasting menus and one of Philadelphia's top culinary experiences.
Historic roast pork and cheesesteak shop in South Philadelphia, known for hearty sandwiches and a no-frills local atmosphere.
Beloved local chain specializing in water ice and frozen custard. It is a go-to stop for a classic Philadelphia summer dessert.
Moderate for a major US city. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but dining and transit are often cheaper than New York or Washington.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is provided.
Official public transport app
Philadelphia Bus Terminal -> Philadelphia City Hall, Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Des Moines, IA to Philadelphia, PA buses use the Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) to Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park). Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and Philadelphia, PA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) is 3 km from Des Moines city centre. Public transport options include:
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.). ATMs are available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.).
Ticket office support is available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.).
Available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Wheelchair accessible buses available.
Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack bars and vending machines are available.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are an ATM is available near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station: The station is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) is 2 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park). ATMs are available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park).
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park).
Available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park): The bus stop is accessible with ramps.
Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South) is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South).
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South).
Available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South): Wheelchair accessible area.
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