- Must visit
Des Moines Art Center
Leading art museum with strong American, contemporary, and decorative arts collections, plus a sculpture park just outside downtown.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF79 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 3m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF79, while a flight costs an average of CHF467.
Distance: 273 miles (440 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
CHF467 Average price | CHF79 Average price Cheapest | CHF56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 3m Average total duration Fastest 4h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 11h 21m Average total duration 10h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA is a bus with an average price of CHF79.
This is compared to other travel options from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA:
A bus is CHF388 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA costing on average CHF467.
The fastest way to travel from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 3m.
Other travel options to Des Moines, IA take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between St. Louis, MO and Des Moines, IA including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets St. Louis, MO 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA
USAUSA
Take a train from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA and enjoy the approximately 273 miles (440 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 CHF41
Distance 273 miles (440 km) |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 CHF41
Complete guide to Des Moines, IA
Things to do in Des Moines, IA
Discover the best of Des Moines, IA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Des Moines, IA trip today.
- Recommended
State Historical Museum of Iowa
Compact state museum covering Iowa history, culture, and artifacts. A practical stop for visitors wanting context before exploring the city.
- Recommended
Science Center of Iowa
Science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and hands-on displays suited to families and curious adults alike.
- Must visit
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park
A 4.4-acre downtown sculpture park with major contemporary works, open lawns, and easy walking access to nearby restaurants and museums.
- Recommended
East Village
Historic neighborhood east of the river with indie shops, murals, nightlife, and restored buildings. Ideal for an easy local walk.
- Recommended
Gray's Lake Park
Large urban park with wooded trails, picnic areas, a lake, and river views. A favorite local green escape close to downtown.
FAQs: Trains from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from St. Louis, MO 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.
The distance by train from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA is 273 miles (440 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA.
The cheapest way to get from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA is by bus, with a cost of around CHF41.
The train journey from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of rolling farmlands, small towns, and sections of the Mississippi River, providing a pleasant, although not particularly dramatic, visual experience.
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 St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA.
Since neither St. Louis, MO 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 St. Louis, MO 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 from St. Louis, MO
More options for your journey from St. Louis, MO to Des Moines, IA
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Most popular trains to and from Des Moines, IA and St. Louis, MO
Most popular train connections to Des Moines, IA
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