Des Moines to Rochester, Minnesota: Road Trip Guide & Distance

How far is Des Moines from Rochester, Minnesota?

The distance from Des Moines to Rochester, Minnesota is 178.1 miles (286.7 km) as the crow flies. Rochester, Minnesota is located NNE of Des Moines. By car, the driving distance is approximately 222.7 miles, taking about 4h 29min. A direct flight would take roughly 52min. Both are located in United States — Des Moines in Iowa and Rochester, Minnesota in Minnesota.

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 Rochester, Minnesota. 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.