Burlington, Iowa to Des Moines: Road Trip Guide & Distance

141.2 miles 227.3 km · straight line
176.5 miles estimated 284.1 km · driving distance
3h 33min estimated drive time
$17 - $21 estimated fuel cost
~47min flight time
293° WNW bearing direction

How far is Burlington, Iowa from Des Moines?

The distance from Burlington, Iowa to Des Moines is 141.2 miles (227.3 km) as the crow flies. Des Moines is located WNW of Burlington, Iowa. By car, the driving distance is approximately 176.5 miles, taking about 3h 33min. A direct flight would take roughly 47min. 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. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare. 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 Burlington, Iowa and Des Moines. 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 Burlington, Iowa to Des Moines

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 3h 33min $17 - $21 Flexible stops
Fly ~47min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~4h 16min $14–$26* Budget
Train ~3h 22min $21–$62* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Burlington, Iowa & Des Moines

Quick Facts

Burlington, Iowa
40.81°N, 91.11°W
America/Chicago
185m elevation
Des Moines
41.59°N, 93.63°W
America/Chicago
291m elevation
Explore more routes from Des Moines

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 47 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 12 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 176.3 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients