Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA train

Mon, Jun 01
+ Add return
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
ÖBB
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
ÖBB
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $169. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $169, and a flight costs an average of $125.

Distance: 1435 miles (2311 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$358

Average price

Cheapest

$362

Average price

$346

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

44h 0m

Average total duration

43h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 54m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 54m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

24h 14m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

American Airlines

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 Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $358 (€288).

This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA:

A bus is $4 (€3) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $362 (€291).

The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 54m.

Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 43h 30m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.

Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA

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Take a train from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA and enjoy the approximately 1435 miles (2311 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
Flight from $125 (€100)
Distance
1435 miles (2311 km)
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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
Flight from $125 (€100)

Complete guide to Los Angeles

Things to do in Los Angeles

Discover the best of Los Angeles — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles trip today.

  • Must visit

The Getty Center

Major art museum and hilltop campus known for European paintings, gardens, and architecture, with panoramic city views.

  • Must visit

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The largest art museum in the western United States, famous for broad global collections and the Urban Light installation.

  • Must visit

The Broad

Contemporary art museum with works by Warhol, Kusama, and Koons; one of Downtown Los Angeles's most popular cultural stops.

United States Dollar

Los Angeles is costly for visitors, especially hotels, parking, and dining. Budget eats exist, but transport and attractions add up quickly.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 80+ per person before drinks and tax.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Small counter-service tips are optional.

FAQs: Trains from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The distance by train from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA is 1435 miles (2311 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $125 (€100).
The train journey from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA offers varied scenery, including views of the rolling plains of Iowa, the expansive landscapes of the Midwest, and the picturesque mountains and deserts of the Southwest, providing a diverse and scenic experience.
In Los Angeles, CA, you can explore Venice Beach Boardwalk with its eclectic shops and street performers, visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience, or take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park for panoramic city views. Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or discover unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Best sights include the Griffith Observatory for stunning city views and astronomy exhibits, The Getty Center for art and gardens, the historic Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) with its diverse collections.
To fully experience Los Angeles, CA, it's ideal to spend at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time to visit popular attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Getty Center, while also exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings.
No, you cannot take the train from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, CA include Anaheim, CA, Irvine, CA, Carlsbad, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Fullerton, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA 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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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.

Most popular trains to and from Los Angeles, CA and Des Moines, IA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Los Angeles, CADes Moines, IA to Los Angeles, CA train

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