Greyhound Lines offers the most comprehensive intercity bus services in the United States. They operate a modern, environmentally friendly fleet that serves more than 2400 destinations and carries nearly 16 million passengers annually. When traveling with them, you can expect free WiFi, onboard entertainment, bathrooms, power outlets and decent legroom. One of the great perks of Greyhound is that they connect big cities and smaller towns in the US, where you usually can't get to by train or plane. If you're looking for safe and affordable transportation, Greyhound is a great choice.
Greyhound Chicago Des Moines recent customer reviews
Maybe it should be written in the details of the trip that we have to weigh our luggage.
Founded in 1919, Jefferson Lines provides bus services across the Midwest in the US. Their buses have WiFi, USB plugs, bathrooms, reclining seats, reading lights and GPS tracking. Tickets are non-refundable, but you can change the date by paying a fee. Known for their affordable prices and convenient schedules, if you're looking to travel in the Midwest, Jefferson Lines is the way to go.
Based on 20 reviews, the company was rated 4.2 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the staff and the timeliness but often complained with the ticket access. Burlington Trailways ticket prices on this trip start at $60
Flixbus is a European bus operator that offers intercity and bus travel in over 38 countries. Known for their easy-to-spot lime green buses and for offering affordable transportation between cities in Europe and the Americas, Flixbus is a good option for those looking for an affordable, reliable bus company. In their buses, you'll find free WiFi, bathrooms, and power outlets. You can also pay extra to choose your seat and get extra legroom, or even buy a snack or drink onboard directly from the driver. You can reschedule your ticket for a small fee, which varies from $1 to $5, depending on how close you are to the departure date.
Frequently asked questions about traveling from Chicago to Des Moines by bus
Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.
How much is the bus ticket from Chicago to Des Moines?
The cheapest bus tickets from Chicago to Des Moines start from $45. The average price for this route is around $62. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.
How long is the bus ride from Chicago to Des Moines?
The average bus trip duration from Chicago to Des Moines is 9h 10m, covering a distance of 308 miles (496 km). The quickest bus can get you there in 6h and is operated by Jefferson Lines.
Which bus companies service the Chicago to Des Moines route?
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the bus from Chicago to Des Moines?
The earliest bus departs from Chicago to Des Moines at 5:25am. And the latest bus departs at 11:50pm.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Chicago to Des Moines?
A bus trip from Chicago to Des Moines generates an estimated 12 kg of CO₂, making it a highly eco-friendly travel option and recommended mode of travel by Busbud.
What is the best bus company from Chicago to Des Moines?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is Burlington Trailways, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on 20 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Chicago to Des Moines?
Based on reviews on Busbud, the bus company Burlington Trailways has the best Wi-Fi rating with a score of 5.0.
Which bus company has the most timely service from Chicago to Des Moines?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most timely bus company on this route is Burlington Trailways, with a punctuality rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Chicago to Des Moines?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is Burlington Trailways, with a cleanliness rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars.
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
12/01
$156
12/02
$91
Today
$156
12/04
$61
12/05
$56
12/06
$47
12/07
$53
12/08
$45
The cheapest trip from Chicago to Des Moines was searched and found on Dec 8, 2025 with a price of $45
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Chicago to Des Moines, as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from $45 to $156 for a bus ticket from Chicago to Des Moines based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $45 which is on 2025-12-08.
Usually Jefferson Lines will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.
The cheapest trip from Chicago to Des Moines was searched and found on Dec 8, 2025 with a price of $45
