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

108.9 miles 175.2 km · straight line
136.1 miles estimated 219 km · driving distance
2h 44min estimated drive time
$13 - $16 estimated fuel cost
~43min flight time · usually no direct flights
73° ENE bearing direction

How far is Des Moines from Marion, Iowa?

The distance from Des Moines to Marion, Iowa is 108.9 miles (175.2 km) as the crow flies. Marion, Iowa is located ENE of Des Moines. By car, the driving distance is approximately 136.1 miles, taking about 2h 44min. A direct flight would take roughly 43min. 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 Des Moines and Marion, Iowa. 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 Des Moines to Marion, Iowa

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 2h 44min $13 - $16 Flexible stops
Bus ~3h 17min $11–$20* Budget
Train ~2h 36min $16–$48* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Des Moines & Marion, Iowa

Quick Facts

Des Moines
41.59°N, 93.63°W
America/Chicago
291m elevation
Marion, Iowa
42.03°N, 91.60°W
America/Chicago
259m elevation
Explore more routes from Marion, Iowa

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 36 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 9 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 228.7 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients