Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA train

Sat, Jul 11
+ Add return
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
Italo
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
Italo
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $139. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $139, and a flight costs an average of $146.

Distance: 828 miles (1333 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$219

Average price

Cheapest

$377

Average price

$199

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

25h 35m

Average total duration

25h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 19m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 19m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

14h 55m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA is a bus with an average price of $219 (€180).

This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA:

A bus is $159 (€131) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA costing on average $377 (€310).

The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 19m.

Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:

Bus takes on average 25h 5m.

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

Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA

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Icon of train

Take a train from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA and enjoy the approximately 828 miles (1333 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 $139 (€114)
Distance
828 miles (1333 km)
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 $139 (€114)

Complete guide to New Orleans

Things to do in New Orleans

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

  • Must visit

The National WWII Museum

World-class museum covering the American experience in World War II with immersive exhibits, artifacts, and restored aircraft. One of the city's most important cultural attractions.

  • Must visit

New Orleans Museum of Art

The city's major fine arts museum in City Park, known for European, American, African, and contemporary works, plus access to the surrounding sculpture garden.

  • Recommended

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Leading museum dedicated to Southern art, featuring painting, photography, and contemporary works that explore the culture and history of the American South.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. city standards. Food and drinks can add up in tourist areas, while casual meals stay fairly affordable.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for a casual meal.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person.
Coffee
USD 3-6 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff.

FAQs: Trains from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA

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

FAQs
The distance by train from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA is 828 miles (1333 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA.
The cheapest way to get from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA is by bus, with a cost of around $139 (€114).
The journey from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA by train offers scenic views primarily through the Mississippi River landscapes, lush Southern forests, and charming small towns, particularly as you approach the southern states.
In New Orleans, LA, you can enjoy traditional jazz performances at Preservation Hall, relax in Audubon Park with its zoo and golf course, and experience live music on Frenchmen Street. Take a scenic cruise on the Steamboat Natchez and explore City Park's botanical gardens and art museum. Discover the French Quarter's vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage, visit Jackson Square and the historic St. Louis Cathedral, admire the Garden District's antebellum mansions, and explore the National WWII Museum's immersive exhibits.
Three to four days are recommended to fully explore New Orleans, allowing time to visit its historic neighborhoods, enjoy live music, savor local cuisine, and experience cultural landmarks such as the French Quarter and Garden District.
No, you cannot take the train from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA include Hammond, LA, Gulfport, MS, McComb, MS, Bay Saint Louis, MS, Picayune, MS.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the French Quarter. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated neighborhoods and to use authorized transportation services 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 New Orleans, LA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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