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Des Moines to Austin bus

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Des Moines - Austin Bus Schedule

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Journey Information

There are 3 intercity buses per day from Des Moines to Austin. Traveling by bus from Des Moines to Austin usually takes around 21 hours and 40 minutes, but the fastest FlixBus US bus can make the trip in 21 hours and 10 minutes.

Distance816 mi (1314 km)
Shortest duration21h 10m
Cheapest price$197.83
Most frequent serviceFlixBus US
Bus lines1

What bus companies travel from Des Moines to Austin?

There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Des Moines to Austin. FlixBus US connects the two cities by bus, it offers multiple scheduled buses per day for you to choose from.

BusDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
FlixBus US321h 40m$217.44
  • FlixBus US is the American branch of German bus company FlixBus, known for providing sustainable, affordable, and modern bus travel. The company offers cheap bus tickets to popular urban destinations throughout the United States. FlixBus US buses include many amenities, including comfortable seats, free WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and an online portal for free entertainment. On average, FlixBus US operates 3 trips per day from Des Moines to Austin, and the average ticket for this route costs only .

Frequently Asked Questions

The bus takes an average of 21 hours and 40 minutes to cover the 816 miles from Des Moines to Austin. However, the fastest bus only takes 21 hours and 10 minutes. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. 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.

With many people traveling in the middle of the week, Wednesday is the busiest day of the week for bus travel. If you are planning to travel on a Wednesday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.

On the other hand, Tuesday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Tuesday ticket is the way to go.

The first bus leaves at 2:00am and the last bus leaves at 11:00pm. To see the times for all buses from Des Moines to Austin, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.

There are 3 scheduled buses that travel from Des Moines to Austin every day, so you have a decent number of options to choose from. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so no matter which bus you take, you will have to transfer buses at least once during your journey.

City Information

Des Moines

Des Moines, IA, US - DSM-0

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.

Austin

Austin, TX - AUS-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Austin, TX - AUS-1

Image credit: Unsplash

Austin, TX - AUS-2

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Austin is the capital of the Lone Star State and one of the best vacation destinations in Texas. Known as Texas’s “weird” city, Austin is famous for being the southern mecca for the arts. In addition to being a hot spot for both emerging and established artists from Texas and the surrounding states, Austin is well known for its eclectic live music scene. In addition, the University of Texas’ main campus is located in Austin, which makes the city a popular destination for young people from all over the world, keeping it vibrant at all times. It’s no surprise that it ranks among the top party cities in the U.S.

While you’re in town, make sure to stop by the hip South Congress neighborhood to shop at the trendy boutiques and grab some grub at the authentically Austin restaurants. Since Austin is one of the best craft beer cities in the country, you won’t regret checking out some of the local breweries too. After that, head over to Lady Bird Lake and rent a kayak for a relaxing paddling session on the water, or simply go for a walk on the picturesque Hike & Bike Trail. Finally, spend the night bar hopping along the pedestrian-only Sixth Street.

While the Austin airport is located on the outskirts of the city, the main train station is right in the heart of downtown. Similarly, the two bus stations that serve Austin are located close to the city center, making ground transportation the more convenient way to travel in and out of town.

Station Information

Where does the bus leave from in Des Moines?

Main departure station: Bus Station - 1501 2nd St

Most buses depart from the main station in Des Moines.

All bus stations in Des Moines:

  • Bus Station - 1501 2nd St

Where does the bus arrive in Austin?

Bus Terminal - 916 E Koenig Ln - AUSGLI-0

Image credit: leyla.a

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Main arrival station: Eastside Bus Plz

Travelers to and from the capital of Texas will likely stop through the bus station at 916 E Koenig Lane. Located in Austin’s quaint North Loop neighborhood, and with close proximity to several main highways, this station serves bus trips from both Greyhound and Jefferson Lines. The station has a comfortable seating area inside, along with restrooms and vending machines for on-the-go snacks. Takeout restaurants, coffeeshops, and a range of stores surround the station for those seeking heartier food options before or after their bus trip.

All bus stations in Austin:

  • Eastside Bus Plz

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