- Must visit
Milwaukee Art Museum
Leading lakefront museum with strong decorative arts, American art, and iconic architecture. It is Milwaukee's signature cultural attraction.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $124 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 49m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $124, while a flight costs an average of $624.
Distance: 307 miles (495 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$124 Average price Cheapest | $624 Average price | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 30m Average total duration 11h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration Fastest 3h 49m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 27m 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 Milwaukee, WI is a bus with an average price of $124 (€101).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI:
A bus is $500 (€405) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI costing on average $624 (€506).
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 49m.
Other travel options to Milwaukee, WI take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and Milwaukee, WI 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 Milwaukee, WI among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI 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 Milwaukee, WI
USAUSA
Take a train from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI and enjoy the approximately 307 miles (495 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 $57 (€46)
Distance 307 miles (495 km) |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $57 (€46)
Complete guide to Milwaukee, WI
Things to do in Milwaukee, WI
Discover the best of Milwaukee, WI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Milwaukee, WI trip today.
- Must visit
Discovery World
Science and technology museum with hands-on exhibits, a dome theater, and major industrial displays. Great for families and curious adults alike.
- Must visit
Milwaukee Public Museum
Large natural and human history museum with dinosaur fossils, the Streets of Old Milwaukee, and cultural collections. A classic city institution.
- Must visit
Historic Third Ward
Revived historic warehouse district with boutiques, galleries, riverwalk access, and handsome architecture. Ideal for strolling and urban photography.
- Must visit
Milwaukee RiverWalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Milwaukee River linking downtown districts. It offers public art, bridges, and some of the city's best easy walks.
- Recommended
Lake Park
Large lakefront park with gardens, blufftop views, and access to North Point Lighthouse. A favorite for relaxing walks and skyline panoramas.
Bratwurst
A bratwurst, often grilled and served with sauerkraut and mustard. Milwaukee's strong German heritage makes it one of the city's signature foods.
Friday Fish Fry
Beer-battered whitefish or perch, usually served with rye bread, slaw, and potato pancakes. A beloved Friday tradition tied to the city's Catholic and tavern culture.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Curds
Fresh cheese curds, often battered and fried. They reflect Wisconsin's dairy identity and are a staple snack in Milwaukee bars and restaurants.
Kopp's Frozen Custard
Classic custard stand famed for fresh frozen custard and the Flavor of the Day. Casual, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in Milwaukee tradition.
Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro
Upscale supper club and seafood spot celebrated for its Friday fish fry, cocktails, and polished old-school Milwaukee atmosphere.
Kegel's Inn
Traditional tavern and restaurant known for hearty German fare, sausages, and one of the city's classic Friday fish fry experiences.
United States Dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels are often cheaper than Chicago, dining is mid-priced, and local transit is limited so visitors may spend more on rideshares or parking.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Round up or tip about 10% for taxis. Cafes often use tip jars or screens; $1-2 or 10-15% is common.
FAQs: Trains from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI 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 Milwaukee, WI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI is 307 miles (495 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI.
The cheapest way to get from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI is by bus, with a cost of around $57 (€46).
The train journey from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI offers scenic views of the Midwest landscape, including rolling farmlands, small towns, and glimpses of rivers and woodlands, providing a pleasant visual experience.
To fully experience Milwaukee, WI, it is recommended to spend 2 to 3 days. This allows time to explore its vibrant arts scene, enjoy local breweries, visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, and experience the historic Third Ward district.
No, you cannot take the train from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Milwaukee, WI 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 Milwaukee, WI include Chicago, IL, Glenview, IL, Sturtevant, WI, Palatine, IL, Evanston, IL.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI 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 Milwaukee, WI, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like festivals and public transit. Avoid displaying valuables openly and stay aware of your surroundings. Common scams include overcharging by taxi or rideshare drivers and fake ticket sales for events. It’s advisable to use reputable transportation services and purchase tickets from official sources. Staying in well-lit, populated areas at night enhances 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 Milwaukee, WI
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Most popular trains to and from Milwaukee, WI and Des Moines, IA
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