Cheap Flights to Des Moines
One-way
Departing from
Tokyo
Going to
Des Moines, United States
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from Des Moines. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/21/2025).
Popular airlines to Des Moines
Cape Air
American Airlines
Alaska Airlines, Inc.
JetBlue Airways
Facts About Flights to Des Moines
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick Des Moines flight facts and tips.
Des Moines city airports
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the primary airport serving the Des Moines metropolitan area and the state of Iowa. DSM offers a range of domestic flights, connecting passengers to major hubs across the United States. You can find flights from major airlines such as American, Delta, United, and Southwest. The airport provides a variety of services and amenities, including dining options, shops, and rental car services, ensuring a comfortable travel experience for passengers. With ongoing improvements and expansions, Des Moines International Airport is committed to meeting the growing needs of the region's air travel demands.
Pro tip: search “Des Moines (Any)” to see fares to all Des Moines airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to Des Moines
Cheapest airport
Omaha (OMA)
Eppley Airfield (OMA) in Omaha, Nebraska, is often a budget-friendly alternative. Just a hop over the state line, it offers a range of domestic flights and a less crowded experience than some larger hubs, making it a smooth start to your Iowa adventure.
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
20+ cities
While Des Moines Airport (DSM) might not be a major hub, it efficiently connects you to over 20 cities. Expect popular routes to destinations like Chicago, Denver, and Minneapolis, making it a convenient starting point for many journeys!
Number of airlines
10+ airlines
Des Moines International Airport is served by more than 10 airlines, offering a mix of full-service and budget-friendly options such as Delta, United, American, Southwest, and Frontier.
Typical price range (round-trip)
$120 - $400
Generally, flights to Des Moines fall in the $120-$400 range, but prices do fluctuate! Keep an eye out for higher fares during the summer, when everyone's eager to enjoy Iowa's outdoors, and around major holidays. Also, flights from the East or West Coast may come with a slightly higher price tag.
Flight frequency
100+ flights
There are over 100 flights to Des Moines every week! Flights are more frequent during peak travel seasons and typically during morning and evening hours.
When Is the Best Time to Fly to Des Moines
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to Des Moines:
Cheapest month
January
Cheapest month
January is typically the cheapest month to fly to Des Moines. The city is covered in a blanket of snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. You can enjoy indoor attractions like the Des Moines Art Center or cozy up in local cafes.
Best day to book
Tuesday
Best day to book
Tuesday often emerges as the best day to book flights to Des Moines. Airlines tend to release deals early in the week. By booking on Tuesday, you're more likely to snag a better price before the weekend surge.
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
Flying on a Wednesday can save you some serious cash. Mid-week flights are generally less popular. This makes them more affordable than weekend departures.
Advance booking sweet spot
2 Months
Advance booking sweet spot
Booking about two months in advance is often the sweet spot for Des Moines flights. This allows you to capitalize on early bird discounts. You also avoid the last-minute price hikes as the departure date approaches.
Seasonal considerations
Similar
Seasonal considerations
Des Moines Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which Des Moines airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to Des Moines’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
Hey there, jet-setter! Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is your gateway to the capital city of Iowa, offering a cozy and manageable travel experience. Though smaller than major hubs, DSM provides a variety of amenities including free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a selection of restaurants and shops to keep you entertained while you wait for your flight. The airport is conveniently located just a few miles from downtown Des Moines, making for a quick and easy commute. Transportation options include taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and rental cars, ensuring you can reach your destination without a fuss. Catching a flight from DSM? You're in for a smooth ride!
Tip: Arrive a little early to breeze through security and grab a famous Iowa craft beer before your flight!
Other airports
Okay, so Des Moines doesn't have a monopoly on flight landings, you know! Cities like Omaha and Kansas City host airports that aren't *too* far off, offering alternative routes (and sometimes, cheaper flights!). But be warned, while you might save some bucks on the flight itself, the real kicker is the ground transportation – think rental cars, buses, or maybe even convincing a friend to embark on a road trip worthy of a movie!
What to Do in Des Moines
Des Moines isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in Des Moines, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & landmarks
Get ready to explore Des Moines' iconic landmarks! From the stunning Iowa State Capitol building with its golden dome to the serene beauty of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, there's a sight to captivate every traveler. Don't forget to snap a photo with the Salisbury House and Gardens.
Arts & culture
Des Moines is a cultural hub brimming with artistic expression! Immerse yourself in the world-class collections at the Des Moines Art Center or catch a Broadway-caliber show at the Des Moines Civic Center. The city's vibrant public art scene adds an extra layer of charm.
Food & nightlife
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure in Des Moines! From farm-to-table restaurants showcasing Iowa's bounty to trendy bars and craft breweries, there's something to satisfy every craving. The city's nightlife scene is equally diverse, offering everything from live music venues to cozy pubs.
Shopping & fashion
Shopaholics, rejoice! Des Moines offers a delightful mix of shopping experiences. Explore the unique boutiques and local shops in the East Village or head to Jordan Creek Town Center for a wide variety of retailers. You're sure to find the perfect souvenir or fashion statement.
Nearby getaways
Escape the city bustle with a quick getaway from Des Moines! Explore the charming town of Winterset, famous for its covered bridges and the birthplace of John Wayne. Or, head to the scenic beauty of Pella, known for its Dutch heritage and annual Tulip Time festival.
Events in Des Moines This Month
city council meeting
The meeting will take place at 5:30 p.m. in the Saylorville Training Room at Johnston City Hall. All interested parties are welcome to attend and observe the proceedings.
city council meeting - november 17, 2025
To receive the full Council Packet for an upcoming meeting via email, please click the provided link. You can also sign up to receive an email notification when the City Council agenda is released prior to each meeting, ensuring you stay informed about upcoming discussions and decisions.
city council meeting
City Hall is now open to the public, and residents are welcome to attend council meetings. These meetings are held in the City Hall Council Chambers, located at 900 [Address Redacted], providing a space for community members to engage with their local government.
city council meeting
The agenda will be available on the Friday preceding the meeting, allowing interested parties to review the topics and issues that will be discussed by the council.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Des Moines
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Des Moines
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on Des Moines flights:
Be Flexible With Your Dates: Sometimes flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday can save you some serious cash compared to weekend flights. A little wiggle room in your schedule can lead to big savings!
Set Up Price Alerts: Use tools like RatePunk to track flight prices and get notified when they drop. This way, you'll snag the best deals without constantly checking.
