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.
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.
Frequently asked questions about traveling from Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee to Des Moines?
The cheapest bus tickets from Milwaukee to Des Moines start from $61. The average price for this route is around $114. 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 Milwaukee to Des Moines?
The average bus trip duration from Milwaukee to Des Moines is 11h 30m, covering a distance of 306 miles (493 km). The quickest bus can get you there in 11h 10m and is operated by Greyhound.
Which bus companies service the Milwaukee to Des Moines route?
Several major bus companies operate on this route with 3 buses available per day, including services from Greyhound, Jefferson Lines.
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the bus from Milwaukee to Des Moines?
The earliest bus departs from Milwaukee to Des Moines at 3:20am. And the latest bus departs at 9:20am.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Milwaukee to Des Moines?
A bus trip from Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee to Des Moines?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is Jefferson Lines, with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 759 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Milwaukee to Des Moines?
Based on reviews on Busbud, the bus company Jefferson Lines has the best Wi-Fi rating with a score of 3.1.
Which bus company has the most timely service from Milwaukee to Des Moines?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the most timely bus company on this route is Jefferson Lines, with a punctuality rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Milwaukee to Des Moines?
According to Busbud traveller reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is Jefferson Lines, with a cleanliness rating of 4.0 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
$168
12/02
$84
Today
$102
12/04
$121
12/05
$73
12/06
$70
12/07
$77
12/08
$63
The cheapest trip from Milwaukee to Des Moines was searched and found on Dec 8, 2025 with a price of $63
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Milwaukee to Des Moines, as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from $63 to $185 for a bus ticket from Milwaukee to Des Moines based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $63 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 Milwaukee to Des Moines was searched and found on Dec 8, 2025 with a price of $63
