Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC train

Wed, Jun 24
+ 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 Raleigh, NC

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $152. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $152, and a flight costs an average of $292.

Distance: 900 miles (1449 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight

$180

Average price

Cheapest

$488

Average price

28h 38m

Average total duration

28h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 49m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC is a bus with an average price of $180 (€148).

This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC:

A bus is $308 (€253) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC costing on average $488 (€402).

The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 49m.

Other travel options to Raleigh, NC take longer:

Bus takes on average 28h 8m.

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

Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC 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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Jun 24
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Take a train from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC and enjoy the approximately 900 miles (1449 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 $152 (€125)
Distance
900 miles (1449 km)
High Season
Apr - Jun
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 $152 (€125)

Complete guide to Raleigh

Things to do in Raleigh

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

  • Must visit

North Carolina Museum of Art

Major art museum with a broad collection from ancient to contemporary works, plus a large outdoor Museum Park. One of Raleigh’s signature cultural stops.

  • Must visit

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The Southeast’s largest natural history museum, known for dinosaur exhibits, live animals, and strong family-friendly science displays in downtown Raleigh.

  • Recommended

Marbles Kids Museum

Popular interactive children’s museum with hands-on exhibits focused on play, learning, and imagination. Best for families with younger children.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than New York or San Francisco, but costs rise in downtown and during major events.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
USD 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 60-100+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis/rideshares 10-15%, hotel staff a few USD, and round up for coffee only if desired.

FAQs: Trains from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC

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

FAQs
The distance by train from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC is 900 miles (1449 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC.
The cheapest way to get from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC is by bus, with a cost of around $152 (€125).
The train journey from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC offers a mix of scenic views, including expansive Midwest farmlands, rolling hills, and lush forests, especially as you travel through the Appalachian region, providing a pleasant visual experience.
In Raleigh, NC, visitors can explore Raleigh City Market for shopping and dining, enjoy diverse plant collections at JC Raulston Arboretum, and engage in interactive fun at Marbles Kids Museum. Music lovers can attend concerts at Red Hat Amphitheater, while families can have fun at Adventure Landing with mini-golf and go-karts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the North Carolina Museum of Art, and outdoor lovers can visit Pullen Park for playgrounds and pedal boats or hike through William B. Umstead State Park. For a mix of history and nature, Historic Yates Mill County Park offers scenic trails and a glimpse into the past with a restored gristmill. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences provides educational exhibits on natural history.
To explore Raleigh, NC, three days is ideal to visit key attractions such as the North Carolina Museum of Art, Pullen Park, and the State Capitol, while also enjoying the local dining scene and vibrant neighborhoods.
No, you cannot take the train from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC include Greensboro, NC, Durham, NC, High Point, NC, Burlington, NC, Rocky Mount, NC.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation services helps 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 Raleigh, NC

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Raleigh, NCDes Moines, IA to Raleigh, NC train

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