Des Moines to Memphis: Road Trip Guide & Distance
How far is Des Moines from Memphis?
The distance from Des Moines to Memphis is 485 miles (780.5 km) as the crow flies. Memphis is located SSE of Des Moines. By car, the driving distance is approximately 617.1 miles, taking about 11h 43min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 29min. Both are located in United States — Des Moines in Iowa and Memphis in Tennessee.
This is a serious multi-day road trip! We strongly recommend breaking this journey up with an overnight stay to ensure you arrive safely and refreshed. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility.
Coordinates come from public place data for Des Moines and Memphis. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. 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 Memphis
Suggested Stops Between Des Moines & Memphis
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Quick Facts
Did You Know?
- At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 162 hours of non-stop walking
- By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 40 hours
- You could travel this distance about 51.3 times to circle the Earth's equator