Des Moines to Springfield, Illinois: Road Trip Guide & Distance

242.3 miles 389.9 km · straight line
302.9 miles estimated 487.4 km · driving distance
6h 6min estimated drive time
$29 - $36 estimated fuel cost
~59min flight time
119° ESE bearing direction

How far is Des Moines from Springfield, Illinois?

The distance from Des Moines to Springfield, Illinois is 242.3 miles (389.9 km) as the crow flies. Springfield, Illinois is located ESE of Des Moines. By car, the driving distance is approximately 302.9 miles, taking about 6h 6min. A direct flight would take roughly 59min. Both are located in United States — Des Moines in Iowa and Springfield, Illinois in Illinois.

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.

Coordinates come from public place data for Des Moines and Springfield, Illinois. 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 Springfield, Illinois

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 6h 6min $29 - $36 Flexible stops
Fly ~59min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~7h 19min $24–$45* Budget
Train ~5h 48min $36–$106* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Des Moines & Springfield, Illinois

Quick Facts

Des Moines
41.59°N, 93.63°W
America/Chicago
291m elevation
Springfield, Illinois
39.80°N, 89.64°W
America/Chicago
182m elevation
Explore more routes from Springfield, Illinois

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 81 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 20 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 102.8 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients