A- A+

Getting Around DSM USA

Wherever you decide "this must be the place" for you in Greater Des Moines (DSM), it's easy to get there. Located at the crossroads of Interstates 35 and 80, Des Moines is one of the few metro areas that sits at the intersection of major interstates running from coast to coast and border to border. We enjoy one of the shortest commute times in the nation, where you can get anywhere in the metro area in about 20 minutes or less. Breeze through a rush hour that lasts minutes instead of hours. Enjoy easy access to public transportation options.

The region is concentrating efforts to make Des Moines a more walkable community, and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) can all be accessed by foot. Avoid the winter elements, use the four miles of climate-controlled skywalks that connect Downtown DSM buildings, businesses and restaurants. Trails wind through the heart of Downtown DSM, meandering throughout the region, perfect for biking with B-cycle — a public bicycle sharing program. 

Des Moines is close to these major cities:

  • Omaha  135 miles
  • Kansas City  194 miles
  • Minneapolis/St. Paul  244 miles
  • Chicago  334 miles
  • Milwaukee  375 miles
  • St. Louis  432 miles 

Airports

The region has multiple options for air travel, including the Des Moines International Airport, where you will find schedule-friendly nonstop flights to your favorite destinations and competitive prices. The average travel time from the airport to Downtown DSM is just eight minutes, with taxis and Uber and Lyft drivers available to take you where you need to go once you land. The airport services six airlines, including commuter airlines, and services 25 nonstop destinations. Other airports include:

Public Transportation

The Des Moines Regional Transit Authority (DART) provides bus services throughout the metro area. DSM also has a free Downtown DSM D-Line shuttle service that runs from one end of Downtown to the other six days a week. Learn more about routes, fare and schedule information at RideDART.com

Over-The-Road Service

The region is served by Amtrak, Greyhound, Jefferson Bus Lines, Burlington Trailways and Windstar for travel within the state or throughout the country. Multiple bus options provide affordable transportation options for travelers looking to get around DSM or to surrounding communities.