Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA train

Tue, May 19
+ 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 Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $131. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $131, and a flight costs an average of $164.

Distance: 969 miles (1561 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$233

Average price

Cheapest

$334

Average price

$350

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

29h 6m

Average total duration

28h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 21m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

16h 7m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

psa airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA is a bus with an average price of $233 (€188).

This is compared to other travel options from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA:

A bus is $102 (€82) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA costing on average $334 (€270).

The fastest way to travel from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 21m.

Other travel options to Des Moines, IA take longer:

Bus takes on average 28h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Philadelphia, PA and Des Moines, IA including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users.

Compare prices and tickets Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA 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.

Tue
May 19
Wed
May 20
Thu
May 21
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May 22
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May 23
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May 25

Journey information

Overview: Train from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA

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USAUSA
Icon of train

Take a train from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA and enjoy the approximately 969 miles (1561 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 $131 (€106)
Distance
969 miles (1561 km)
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 $131 (€106)

FAQs: Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA

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

FAQs
The distance by train from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA is 969 miles (1561 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA.
The cheapest way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA is by bus, with a cost of around $131 (€106).
The train journey from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA offers varied scenery, with views of urban landscapes, rolling hills, and farmlands, particularly as the route travels through Pennsylvania and into the Midwest. However, it may not be considered as scenic as routes through mountainous or coastal regions.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Des Moines, IA, allows visitors to explore major attractions such as the State Capitol, the Des Moines Art Center, and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, while also enjoying local dining and entertainment.
No, you cannot take the train from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA.
Since neither Philadelphia, PA nor Des Moines, IA 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.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA 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 Des Moines, IA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake ticket sellers for local events and unofficial ride services. Staying alert in busy downtown spots and using authorized transportation options 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.

Most popular train connections to Des Moines, IA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Des Moines, IAPhiladelphia, PA to Des Moines, IA train

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