Ames to Cedar Rapids: Road Trip Guide & Distance

101.4 miles 163.2 km · straight line
126.8 miles estimated 204 km · driving distance
2h 33min estimated drive time
$12 - $15 estimated fuel cost
~42min flight time · usually no direct flights
90° E bearing direction

How far is Ames from Cedar Rapids?

The distance from Ames to Cedar Rapids is 101.4 miles (163.2 km) as the crow flies. Cedar Rapids is located E of Ames. By car, the driving distance is approximately 126.8 miles, taking about 2h 33min. A direct flight would take roughly 42min. Both are located in United States.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Ames and Cedar Rapids. The driving distance is estimated from straight-line distance with a road-factor model, so confirm the route in your navigation app. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Ames to Cedar Rapids

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 2h 33min $12 - $15 Flexible stops
Bus ~3h 4min $10–$19* Budget
Train ~2h 25min $15–$44* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Ames & Cedar Rapids

Quick Facts

Ames
42.03°N, 93.62°W
America/Chicago
287m elevation
Cedar Rapids
42.01°N, 91.64°W
America/Chicago
247m elevation
Explore more routes from Cedar Rapids

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 34 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 8 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 245.6 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients