- Must visit
Buffalo AKG Art Museum
Major regional art museum with modern, contemporary, and historic works, plus a growing campus and frequent exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest flights from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$352
Average price
$352
Fastest journey
4 h 12 m
Average duration
4 h 12 m
Flights per day
1
Distance
1219 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY will cost around $352 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $352.
Fast flights
Of the 1 flights that leave Des Moines, IA for Buffalo, NY onWed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct flights cover the 1219 km distance in an average of 4 h 12 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 12 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the longest flights will take 4 h 12 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.
2:00 PM4h12Des Moines, IA6:12 PMBuffalo, NY$3521One-way0 transfers
- 2:00 PM4h12Des Moines, IA6:12 PMBuffalo, NY$3521One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY flight
USAUSA
Flights from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY depart on average 18 times per day, taking around 7h 54m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $352 but you can travel from only $108 by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 20:25. The fastest flight covers the 757 miles (1219 km) distance in 4h 12m. November is the cheapest month to fly.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $108
Distance 757 miles (1219 km) |
Average flight duration 7h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $352 |
Flights per day 18 |
Fastest flight 4h 12m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 8:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 70 days |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $108
Complete guide to Buffalo, NY
Things to do in Buffalo, NY
Discover the best of Buffalo, NY — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Buffalo, NY trip today.
- Recommended
Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
Former presidential inaugural site with exhibits on Theodore Roosevelt, the Pan-American Exposition, and Buffalo politics.
- Recommended
Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor
Community museum preserving Buffalo’s African American heritage through local history, culture, and rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Canalside
Waterfront district with canal history, public art, seasonal events, skating, and frequent family-friendly activities downtown.
- Must visit
Elmwood Village
Lively walkable neighborhood known for boutiques, galleries, architecture, and one of Buffalo’s most popular main streets.
- Must visit
Outer Harbor
Long urban trail and greenway connecting waterfront areas, parks, and neighborhoods for walking, biking, and sightseeing.
Buffalo Wings
Crisp fried chicken wings coated in spicy butter-hot sauce. Created in Buffalo, they are the city’s signature bar food and a must-try local classic.
Beef On Weck
Thin-sliced roast beef on a kummelweck roll topped with coarse salt and caraway, usually dipped in jus. It is a longtime Western New York sandwich staple.
- Gluten-free
Buffalo-Style Bean Soup
Slow-cooked bean soup with ham, tomatoes, and vegetables. It is strongly associated with Buffalo’s old taverns and Friday lunch traditions.
Oliver's Restaurant
Refined fine-dining restaurant known for seasonal New American tasting menus, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Schwabl's
Traditional German restaurant celebrated for beef on weck, sausages, and old-world charm. A Buffalo dining landmark with a cozy historic feel.
Duff's Famous Wings
Long-standing wing institution known for crispy, saucy chicken wings in a classic neighborhood bar setting with a devoted local following.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city travel; hotels are often cheaper than NYC, while dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a mid-range restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. For cafes, round up or add $1 per drink.
FAQs: Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Buffalo, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY can start from as little as $352 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY is $447 ; 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 plane from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY is 4h 12m to travel the 757 miles (1219 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY leaves at 8:25 PM.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Buffalo, NY including taking a bus and flight.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 Buffalo, NY, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging for taxi or rideshare services have been reported, so it's advised to use licensed transportation and confirm fares beforehand. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less populated neighborhoods, to avoid potential safety 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 airports
Popular airports from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY
Most Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY flights use the Des Moines International Airport to Buffalo Niagara International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and Buffalo, NY airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Des Moines
Arrival airports in Buffalo
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
City-centre transport
Getting to Des Moines International Airport from Des Moines city centre
Bus8 · 14m · $1
Which Buffalo, NY airport do flights from Des Moines, IA arrive at?
Flights from Des Moines, IA to Buffalo, NY arrive at Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Buffalo Niagara International Airport is 1 miles (3 km) from Buffalo, NY city centre.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)4200 Genesee St, Buffalo, NY 14225, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Buffalo Niagara International Airport from Buffalo city centre
Buffalo Niagara International Airport is 2 km from Buffalo city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAdt N809 · 10m · $7
24, 78 · 46m · $2 · every ~4 min
24, 78 · 49m · $2 · every ~4 min
Buffalo Niagara International Airport airport facilities and services
Buffalo Niagara International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants available; Main terminal, fast food and sit-down options like Anchor Bar and Tim Hortons
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the terminal.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Buffalo Niagara International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Buffalo Niagara International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Buffalo Niagara International Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Airport within walking distance..
Most popular flights from Des Moines, IA
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