Top 5 Ways To Go From Ames, IA To Des Moines, IA

Ames, IA, known for its vibrant college town atmosphere, is home to Iowa State University. Just 30 miles south lies Des Moines, IA, the bustling state capital with a thriving cultural scene.

Traveling between these two cities is common for students, professionals, and tourists alike. Whether it's for business, education, or leisure, the journey is both convenient and scenic.

Let's explore the various transportation options available for this short but significant trip.

Shuttle Service offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel from Ames, IA to Des Moines, IA. This shared transportation option is ideal for those looking for a cost-effective and reliable way to commute between these two cities.

• Travel time: The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and the frequency of shuttle schedules can affect the duration. Opting for express services can reduce travel time.
• Cost: Prices generally range from $20 to $40 per trip. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and service tiers. Discounts are often available for early bookings and group travel.
• Booking process: You can easily find and book Shuttle Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
• Pros: Shuttle Service is economical, environmentally friendly, and offers a stress-free travel experience. It eliminates the need for driving and parking, making it a hassle-free option for commuters.

Shuttle Service is best for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer a shared ride experience. For a smooth journey, consider booking in advance and checking the shuttle schedule.

Luxury Car Service offers a premium, private transportation option for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. This service provides high-end vehicles and professional chauffeurs, ensuring a seamless and luxurious travel experience.

• Travel time: The journey from Ames, IA to Des Moines, IA typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for express routes can reduce travel time.
• Cost: Prices for Luxury Car Service range from $100 to $200, depending on factors like peak hours, advance booking, and vehicle type. Booking in advance or during off-peak times can help secure better rates.
• Booking process: You can easily find and book Luxury Car Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
• Pros: Luxury Car Service offers unparalleled comfort, privacy, and convenience. With professional chauffeurs and high-end vehicles, you can enjoy a stress-free journey. This service is ideal for those who value time and comfort over cost.

Luxury Car Service is best for business travelers, special occasions, or anyone seeking a premium travel experience. For a smooth trip, consider booking in advance and checking traffic conditions.

Private Driver is a personalized transportation service offering a private, comfortable, and convenient way to travel. It provides door-to-door service, ensuring a hassle-free journey. This option is typically more luxurious and private compared to shared or budget-friendly alternatives.

• Travel time: The journey from Ames, IA to Des Moines, IA by Private Driver typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for a direct route can minimize travel time.
• Cost: The cost for a Private Driver service ranges from $100 to $150. Pricing can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and the type of vehicle chosen. Booking in advance or during off-peak hours can help secure better rates.
• Booking process: You can easily find and book Private Driver services through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We offer a user-friendly platform to compare options and make reservations seamlessly.
• Pros: Choosing a Private Driver offers several benefits, including personalized service, comfort, and flexibility. You can enjoy a direct route without stops, ensuring a quicker and more efficient journey. Additionally, the privacy and luxury of a private vehicle enhance the overall travel experience.

Private Driver is ideal for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a personalized experience. For the best experience, consider booking in advance and during off-peak hours.

Traveling from Ames, IA to Des Moines, IA by bus is a budget-friendly and convenient option. Buses are shared transportation services that operate on fixed schedules, making them accessible for most travelers. They offer a straightforward way to commute between these two cities.

• Travel time: The bus journey from Ames to Des Moines typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and the frequency of bus schedules can affect the travel time. Express services may offer slightly faster travel times.
• Cost: The cost of a bus ticket ranges from $10 to $20. Prices can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and service tiers. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and frequent travelers, making it an economical choice.
• Booking process: Travelers can book bus tickets online, through mobile apps, by phone, or in person at bus stations. It is recommended to book tickets at least a day in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
• Pros and cons: The main benefits of traveling by bus include affordability, convenience, and the ability to relax without the stress of driving. However, drawbacks include potential delays due to traffic and less flexibility compared to driving a personal vehicle.

Best for whom and additional tips: The bus is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, students, and those without access to a car. For a smoother journey, consider traveling during off-peak hours and booking tickets in advance.

Car rental is a convenient option for traveling from Ames, IA to Des Moines, IA. It involves renting a private vehicle for a specified period, offering flexibility and comfort. This option can range from budget-friendly to luxury, depending on the vehicle and rental service chosen.

• Travel time: The drive from Ames to Des Moines typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and road work can affect this duration. Opting for a faster route via I-35 can save time.
• Cost: Rental prices generally range from $30 to $100 per day. Costs can vary based on vehicle type, rental duration, and booking time. Booking in advance or during off-peak hours can help secure lower rates.
• Booking process: Travelers can book a rental car online, through a mobile app, by phone, or in person. It is advisable to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
• Pros and cons: The main benefits of car rental include flexibility in travel schedule, comfort, and privacy. However, drawbacks include the responsibility of driving, potential traffic delays, and additional costs such as fuel and insurance.

Car rental is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and comfort. For the best experience, consider booking in advance and choosing a vehicle that suits your needs.

The distance between Ames, IA and Des Moines, IA is approximately 35 miles (56 kilometers). Notable landmarks along the way include the scenic Saylorville Lake and the historic High Trestle Trail Bridge, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities.

• Shuttle Service: Typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travel time can vary due to scheduled stops and potential delays in picking up other passengers.
• Luxury Car Service: Usually takes about 1 hour. This option offers a direct route, but traffic conditions can still impact the overall travel time.
• Private Driver: Generally takes 1 hour. The travel time is similar to a luxury car service, with the added benefit of personalized scheduling.
• Bus: Takes approximately 2 hours. Buses often have multiple stops and may experience delays due to traffic or passenger boarding times.
• Car Rental: Typically takes 1 hour. This option provides flexibility, but travel time can be affected by traffic and the driver's familiarity with the route.

• Shuttle Service: Costs range from $30 to $50 per person. Prices can vary based on the time of day and the number of passengers. Booking in advance can often secure lower rates.
• Luxury Car Service: Expect to pay between $100 and $200. Factors like vehicle type and additional amenities can affect the price. Consider traveling during off-peak hours for potential savings.
• Private Driver: Typically costs range from $80 to $150. Prices are generally fixed, but booking early can sometimes offer discounts. All drivers meet high-quality standards.
• Bus: The most economical option, with prices ranging from $10 to $20. Costs can be lower if tickets are purchased well in advance or during promotional periods.
• Car Rental: Daily rental rates range from $40 to $70, excluding fuel. Prices can fluctuate based on the rental company, vehicle type, and booking time. Joining a rental company's loyalty program can offer additional discounts.

• Free cancellations within 24 hours, allowing you to book a ride and cancel without penalty if plans change.
• 24/7 customer support, a feature not commonly available with other services like Uber.
• Partnerships with licensed providers, ensuring secure and high-quality transportation.
• Instant booking confirmations, dispelling any doubts about the service's efficiency.
• Drivers wait for you in case of flight delays, adding an extra layer of security and convenience.

• Choosing the best method: Consider your budget, time constraints, and comfort preferences. Shuttle services are economical, while luxury car services offer comfort. Private drivers provide flexibility, and buses are budget-friendly. Car rentals offer independence.
• Time-saving strategies: Book your transportation in advance, especially during peak travel times. Services like Mozio can help streamline the booking process, ensuring you get the best option quickly.
• Cost-saving tips: Compare prices across different services. Buses are generally the cheapest, while booking a shuttle or car rental in advance can also save money. Look for discounts or promotions.
• Packing advice: Pack light if using a shuttle or bus, as space may be limited. For luxury car services or private drivers, you can afford to bring more luggage. Always check luggage policies beforehand.
• Best travel times: Early mornings or late evenings are less crowded and may offer lower rates. Avoid peak hours to save time and reduce stress.
• Local insights: Ames to Des Moines is a popular route, so plan for potential traffic delays. Local events can also impact travel times, so check the local calendar when planning your trip.

For Travelers

Mozio simplifies ground transportation for travelers by offering a seamless booking process. Enter your travel details, compare various transportation options, and make a booking—all in one place. This convenience is especially beneficial when navigating unfamiliar destinations, ensuring you have reliable transport from the moment you land.

One of Mozio's unique benefits is its extensive reach, covering thousands of destinations worldwide. Whether you're heading to a bustling city or a remote getaway, Mozio provides a range of options to suit your needs. With competitive pricing and user-friendly features like real-time tracking, travelers can enjoy peace of mind and focus on exploring their destination.

For Travel Agent

For travel agents, Mozio offers a streamlined platform to manage ground transportation bookings effortlessly. Agents can register, book various transportation options, and even ancillary services like eSIMs and airport parking. This system allows agents to earn a 5% discount on all transportation rates and set their own commission, providing a lucrative opportunity while ensuring their clients have reliable transport options.

Mozio's extensive global coverage, spanning thousands of destinations, ensures that travel agents can cater to clients heading to any corner of the world. With services in 180 countries and over 3500 airports, agents can confidently book rides, track bookings, and manage cancellations through a user-friendly dashboard. The 24/7 customer support and free online cancellations for 99% of bookings further enhance the convenience and reliability of using Mozio.