- Must visit
Denver Art Museum
Major art museum known for Indigenous arts, Western American collections, and striking modern architecture. One of Denver’s signature cultural attractions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, and a flight costs an average of $129.
Distance: 609 miles (981 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$116 Average price Cheapest | $470 Average price | $138 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 25m Average total duration 13h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 10m Average total duration Fastest 3h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 39m 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO is a bus with an average price of $116 (€93).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO:
A bus is $354 (€285) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO costing on average $470 (€378).
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 10m.
Other travel options to Denver, CO take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Denver, CO including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO
USAUSA
Take a train from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO and enjoy the approximately 609 miles (981 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
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 $71 (€57)
Distance 609 miles (981 km) |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $71 (€57)
Complete guide to Denver
Things to do in Denver
Discover the best of Denver — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Denver trip today.
- Must visit
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Large science and natural history museum with dinosaurs, space, wildlife, and family-friendly exhibitions. A top choice for broad appeal.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
Contemporary art museum featuring rotating exhibitions, experimental works, and a rooftop with city views. Popular with younger visitors and local art fans.
- Must visit
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Dramatic red rock landscape, concert venue, hiking area, and one of the region’s most famous scenic destinations.
- Must visit
RiNo Art District
Creative neighborhood known for murals, galleries, warehouses, and social-media-friendly street art. One of Denver’s trendiest areas.
- Must visit
LoDo
Lower Downtown combines historic warehouses, nightlife, and easy access to Union Station. A key area for first-time visitors.
- Gluten-free
Green Chile
Denver’s signature spicy stew or sauce made with roasted green chiles, often served over burritos, fries, eggs, or burgers. It reflects the city’s strong Colorado and Southwestern food culture.
Smothered Breakfast Burrito
A large flour tortilla filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, and often bacon or sausage, then covered in green chile. It is a classic Denver breakfast found in diners across the city.
Rocky Mountain Oysters
A Colorado frontier specialty made from breaded and fried bull testicles, usually served with dipping sauce. It is one of the region’s most famous novelty dishes.
Rioja
Respected Larimer Square restaurant offering refined Mediterranean-influenced cuisine in an elegant but approachable setting. A reliable choice for a higher-end Denver dinner.
The Fort
Established adobe-style restaurant near Denver known for Colorado frontier cuisine, including bison, elk, and other regional specialties in a distinctive Southwestern setting.
Root Down
Well-known LoHi restaurant with creative New American dishes, strong brunch service, and a stylish atmosphere. Popular for locally sourced ingredients and vegetarian-friendly options.
United States Dollar
Moderate by major U.S. city standards. Hotels can be pricey in peak season, but casual dining and transit are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotels: USD 2-5 for housekeeping; USD 1-2 per bag.
FAQs: Trains from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Denver, CO, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO is 609 miles (981 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO.
The cheapest way to get from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO is by bus, with a cost of around $71 (€57).
The train journey from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO offers scenic views of rolling plains, agricultural landscapes, and the picturesque backdrop of the Rocky Mountains as you approach Denver, providing a visually appealing travel experience.
In Denver, CO, you can catch a baseball game at Coors Field or explore the vibrant Larimer Square for shopping and nightlife. Enjoy nature at City Park or visit the Denver Zoo. For shopping, head to Cherry Creek Shopping Center. Don't miss the Red Rocks Amphitheatre for concerts, the Denver Art Museum for its art collections, the Denver Botanic Gardens for diverse plant displays, Union Station for dining and events, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for educational exhibits.
A stay of three to four days in Denver, CO allows you to explore its main attractions, including the Denver Art Museum, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, and nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a balanced experience of the city and its surroundings.
No, you cannot take the train from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Denver, CO 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.
Popular day trips by train from Denver, CO include Fort Morgan, CO.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 Denver, CO, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and tourist attractions. Common scams include overpriced rides from unofficial taxi services and fraudulent ticket sellers near popular venues. It's advisable to use licensed transportation, stay vigilant in busy spots, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to 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.
More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Denver, CO and Des Moines, IA
Most popular train connections to Denver, CO
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