- Must visit
Des Moines Art Center
Leading art museum with strong American, contemporary, and decorative arts collections, plus a sculpture park just outside downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- €96
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- €97
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 1 d 2 h 5 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 1 d 5 h 28 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 2
- Distance
- 1436 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA will cost around €97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €96.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA without transferring at least once.
· 5:50 PM 26h05 Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station 6:55 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA €96 1 One-way 1 transfer- · +
FlixBus+10:55 AM 32h50 Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station 6:45 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA €98 1 One-way 3 transfers
- ·
5:50 PM 26h05 Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station 6:55 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA €96 1 One-way 1 transfer - · +FlixBus+
10:55 AM 32h50 Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station 6:45 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA €98 1 One-way 3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 24h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €72 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:30, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 892 miles (1436 km) distance in 23h 40m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance892 miles (1436 km)
- Average bus duration24h 56m
- Cheapest ticket price€72
- Buses per day2
- Fastest bus23h 40m
- First bus5:30 AM
- Last bus11:55 PM
- Cheapest MonthJul
- Cheapest DayTue
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Best time to book42 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
Cheap bus tickets from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA can start from as little as €72 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA is €112 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA leaves at 5:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 32h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €98 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 30h15 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €98 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 26h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €95 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · | 5:50 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 26h05 | 6:55 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
- 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 Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA
Buses from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA with Greyhound and FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with Greyhound and FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
26h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€75
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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 Greyhound Duration
23h 40m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
€72
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Washington, DC and Des Moines, IA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Des Moines, IA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Washington, DC and Des Moines, IA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Complete guide to Des Moines, IA
Things to do in Des Moines, IA
Discover the best of Des Moines, IA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Des Moines, IA trip today.
- Recommended
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Compact state museum covering Iowa history, culture, and artifacts. A practical stop for visitors wanting context before exploring the city.
- Recommended
Science Center of Iowa
Science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and hands-on displays suited to families and curious adults alike.
- Must visit
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
A 4.4-acre downtown sculpture park with major contemporary works, open lawns, and easy walking access to nearby restaurants and museums.
- Recommended
East Village
Historic neighborhood east of the river with indie shops, murals, nightlife, and restored buildings. Ideal for an easy local walk.
- Recommended
Gray's Lake Park
Large urban park with wooded trails, picnic areas, a lake, and river views. A favorite local green escape close to downtown.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Iowa pork tenderloin sandwich features a thin, breaded pork cutlet fried and served on a bun. It is a classic Iowa diner specialty known for its oversized cutlet.
Loose Meat Sandwich
Loose meat sandwich is seasoned ground beef served warm on a bun without being formed into a patty. It is a longtime Iowa lunch-counter staple.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Iowa Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is a signature Iowa summer food, prized for its sweetness and freshness. It is commonly boiled or grilled at fairs, cookouts, and family meals.
Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market
Historic market hall with multiple local food vendors, ideal for sampling regional snacks, coffee, craft beer, and casual meals.
Smitty's Tenderloin Shop
Casual local favorite for the classic Iowa breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, plus burgers and comfort food in a laid-back setting.
Smokey D's BBQ
Long-running smokehouse known for Iowa-style barbecue, ribs, brisket, and hearty sides in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for US city breaks; hotels and dining are usually cheaper than larger US metros, while car use can add transport costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, round up or add 10-15% for taxis, and tip a little at cafes only if table service is provided.
Plan your visit to Des Moines, IA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Des Moines, IA.
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 Des Moines, IA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake ticket sellers for local events and unofficial ride services. Staying alert in busy downtown spots and using authorized transportation options helps 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.
FAQs: Bus from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA 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 Des Moines, IA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Des Moines, IA including taking a bus and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA
Most Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA buses use the Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station to Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Des Moines, IA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Washington
Arrival bus stations in Des Moines
Which Washington, DC station do buses to Des Moines, IA leave from?
Buses from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA leave from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station from Washington city centre
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · €3 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · €2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · €2 · every ~27 min
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station bus station facilities and services
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Which Des Moines, IA station do buses from Washington, DC arrive at?
Buses from Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA arrive at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.). Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) is 1 miles (3 km) from Des Moines, IA city centre.
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.)1625 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) from Des Moines city centre
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) is 3 km from Des Moines city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) bus station facilities and services
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 and ATMs
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.).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Wheelchair accessible buses available.
Bus stations for Washington, DC to Des Moines, IA
Check bus stations information for Washington, DC and Des Moines, IA, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, which is located around 1 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), located 3 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Washington, DC
Most popular buses to and from Des Moines, IA and Washington, DC
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