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Journey Information
There are 2 intercity buses per day from Des Moines to Ames. Traveling by bus from Des Moines to Ames usually takes around 40 minutes, but some buses might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled depending on traffic conditions.
| Distance | 30 mi (48 km) |
| Shortest duration | 0h 40m |
| Cheapest price | $18.00 |
| Trips per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Jefferson Lines |
| Bus lines | 1 |
Price trends for buses from Des Moines to Ames
Monthly average prices
What bus companies travel from Des Moines to Ames?
There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Des Moines to Ames. Jefferson Lines is the one bus line that serves this route. Although it's the sole option, there are a couple of different scheduled times to choose from.
| Bus | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jefferson Lines | 2 | 0h 41m | $18.00 |
Book Jefferson Lines from Des Moines to Ames from $18. There are 2 trips per day offered by Jefferson Lines from Des Moines to Ames and you can expect on average to pay for a Jefferson Lines ticket to Ames. In Des Moines, Jefferson Lines departs to Ames from Des Moines . In Ames, Jefferson Lines arrives at Intermodal Station - 129 Hayward Ave .
An average trip on Jefferson Lines from Des Moines to Ames takes 0 hours and 41 minutes , while the fastest available Jefferson Lines trip will get you to Ames in 0 hours and 40 minutes .
On weekends, Jefferson Lines offers 2 trips per day. A one way ticket costs for a weekend trip to Ames.
Frequently Asked Questions
The bus takes an average of 40 minutes to cover the 30 miles from Des Moines to Ames. It's a short trip that goes by very quickly. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.
Because many passengers travel from Des Moines to Ames at the beginning of the work week, Monday is usually the busiest day for buses. If you are planning to travel on a Monday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.
On the other hand, Sunday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you are looking for less crowded buses to Ames, book your ticket for the last day of the week.
The first bus leaves at 12:00pm and the last bus leaves at 11:00pm. To see the times for all buses from Des Moines to Ames, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
City Information
Des Moines
Image credit: Unsplash
Des Moines is the capital city of Iowa and the most populous city in the state. It has been named the third-largest insurance capital in the world because of its relevance in the US insurance industry. Des Moines is home to historic landmarks, especially in the East Village area. These include the gold-domed Iowa State Capitol building. Art lovers can visit the Des Moines Art Center, which has notable contemporary collections, and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, a pedestrian space with public attractions. Des Moines also has spots for outdoor adventures, like the Blank Park Zoo, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, and Living History Farms.
Des Moines offers diverse places for entertainment, like the Praire Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel, and the Salisbury House & Gardens, a concert venue in a 1920s manor. In the heart of the city is Downtown Des Moines, which has different attractions and entertainment venues, festivals and concerts, shopping spots, sports teams, restaurants, bars, and breweries.
It's very easy to access Des Moines when you're traveling by bus. Over a hundred neighboring cities offer bus lines to the city, powered by companies like Jefferson Lines, Tornado Bus, Burlington Trailways, and El Expreso Bus. The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority also provides bus routes throughout the city.
Station Information
Where does the bus leave from in Des Moines?
Main departure station: Des Moines
Most buses depart from the main station in Des Moines.
All bus stations in Des Moines:
Des Moines
Where does the bus arrive in Ames?
Main arrival station: Intermodal Station - 129 Hayward Ave
All buses from Des Moines arrive at one main station in Ames.
All bus stations in Ames:
Intermodal Station - 129 Hayward Ave
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