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Rockford to Des Moines bus

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Rockford - Des Moines Bus Schedule

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Journey Information

There is one daily bus from Rockford to Des Moines. Traveling by bus from Rockford to Des Moines usually takes around 9 hours and 50 minutes, but some buses might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled depending on traffic conditions.

Distance237 mi (381 km)
Shortest duration9h 50m
Cheapest price$94.75
Most frequent serviceBurlington Trailways
Bus lines1

What bus companies travel from Rockford to Des Moines?

There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Rockford to Des Moines. Burlington Trailways is the only company that has bus schedules available to search and book at the moment. It only makes the trip once a day on most days.

BusDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Burlington Trailways19h 50m$94.75
  • As part of the Trailways network, Burlington Trailways offers intercity bus service across various states in the Midwest, plus stops in major cities like Chicago and Denver. Passengers love traveling on Trailways buses because of the high-end amenities onboard, including satellite TV, power outlets at every seat, and clean restrooms. Burlington Trailways is also known for the best free Wi-Fi and its helpful, friendly crew.

Frequently Asked Questions

The bus takes an average of 9 hours and 50 minutes to cover the 237 miles from Rockford to Des Moines. 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.

The busiest and least busy days to travel on this route tend to change frequently from week to week. Weather, holidays, local events, and other factors can affect how crowded the bus is on any given day.

There is usually only one bus per day from Rockford to Des Moines. It leaves the station in Rockford at 8:00am each day. The time might vary for specific dates, so be sure to search on Wanderu for the most up-to-date information.

There is usually only one bus per day from Rockford to Des Moines. However, it is not a direct bus, so you will have to get off your original vehicle to change buses during the trip.

City Information

Rockford

Rockford, IL - RCK-0

Image credit: Unsplash

Rockford, IL - RCK-1

Image credit: Unsplash

Rockford, IL - RCK-2

Image credit: Unsplash

Located on the banks of the Rock River, Rockford is one of Illinois' best vacation destinations and the state's fourth-largest city. With its vast, green open spaces, golf courses, four rivers, and Rock Cut State Park, this city offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Rockford is often referred to as the City of Gardens, owing to its numerous beautifully-landscaped areas. The Anderson Japanese Gardens boasts the reputation of being one of the highest-quality Japanese gardens in North America, with picturesque water features and exotic plants; the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

Head indoors to Rockford's museums on cooler days, including the Riverfront Museum Park and the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Finish the day with tickets for a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Centre and enjoy the atmospheric-style theatre and movie house's outstanding interior architecture.

Rockford is conveniently situated near three airports, Rockford International, Chicago O'Hare International, and Dane County Regional. Bus service runs from these airports and Union Station in Chicago to easily access the city. In addition, Amtrak Thruway buses connect Rockford to Amtrak's rail network, with destinations via train including Detroit, St. Louis, and even New York.

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.

Station Information

Where does the bus leave from in Rockford?

Main departure station: E Side Tranfer Ctr

The East Side Transfer Center (commonly shortened to just "E Side") is a bus station in Rockford. While some refer to it as just a Greyhound station, the center also services Van Galder Bus and Burlington Trailways. Together, the three carriers provide service across the Midwest, including Chicago. Within the transfer center, you can find a waiting room, vending machines, and restrooms. There are also benches outside if you'd prefer to get some fresh air while waiting. If you have time to kill, there's also a Subway and Cracker Barrel for a more substantial meal. For overnight connections, there are a number of convenient hotels just across I90.

All bus stations in Rockford:

  • E Side Tranfer Ctr

Where does the bus arrive in Des Moines?

Main arrival station: Bus Station - 1501 2nd St

All buses from Rockford arrive at one main station in Des Moines.

All bus stations in Des Moines:

  • Bus Station - 1501 2nd St

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