- Must visit
Denver Art Museum
One of the largest art museums in the West, known for Indigenous art, global collections, and striking architecture.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
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 $70. 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 $70, and a flight costs an average of $126.
Distance: 609 miles (981 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$114 Average price Cheapest | $460 Average price | $136 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 $114 (€93).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO:
A bus is $347 (€285) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Denver, CO costing on average $460 (€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.
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
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 $70 (€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 $70 (€57)
Complete guide to Denver, CO
Things to do in Denver, CO
Discover the best of Denver, CO — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Denver, CO trip today.
- Must visit
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
A major natural history museum with dinosaur fossils, space exhibits, wildlife dioramas, and rooftop city views.
- Recommended
History Colorado Center
This museum explores Colorado and Western heritage through Native history, artifacts, and regional storytelling.
- Must visit
Civic Center Park
Denver's landmark downtown park and civic heart, framed by museums, government buildings, festivals, and open lawns.
- Must visit
City Park
A scenic urban lake and park with skyline and mountain views, trails, boating, and one of Denver's best sunsets.
- Must visit
16th Street Mall
A lively pedestrian mall lined with shops, public art, and free shuttle service through the center of downtown Denver.
- Gluten-free
Denver Omelet
Denver omelet with ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheese. It is strongly associated with the city and remains a classic local breakfast order.
- Gluten-free
Colorado Green Chile
Green chile is a beloved Front Range staple, served as a pork-rich stew or smothered over burritos, fries, and breakfast plates across Denver.
Colorado Green Chile Cheeseburger
A juicy burger topped with roasted green chiles and cheese. It reflects Colorado's chile-loving comfort food culture and is common in Denver pubs.
Fruition Restaurant
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant focused on wood-fired New American cuisine, seasonal Colorado ingredients, and polished service in an elegant room.
El Taco de Mexico
Popular modern Mexican spot celebrated for green chile, tacos, and strong margaritas. Casual atmosphere with a long local following.
Sam's No. 3
Beloved neighborhood eatery serving creative breakfasts and brunch. A reliable place to try a Denver omelet in a relaxed, local setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city: hotels and dining are mid-to-high, while transit is reasonable. Costs are usually lower than New York or San Francisco.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-$18 for fast food or casual spots.
- Mid-range
- $20-$40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-$6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-$2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip screens; rounding up or $1 is common.
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 $70 (€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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
