$39 Cheap Flights to Des Moines
One-way
Departing from
United States
Going to
Des Moines, United States
Des Moines (DSM)
United States • December, 2025
90% AI deal score
$488 $51
Des Moines (DSM)
United States • December, 2025
90% AI deal score
$488 $51
Des Moines (DSM)
United States • December, 2025
90% AI deal score
$488 $62
Des Moines (DSM)
United States • February, 2026
88% AI deal score
$378 $54
Top Cheap Flight Deals from United States to Des Moines
Recent round-trip flight deals to Des Moines
Fri, Jan 9 - Mon, Jan 19
Cheapest
Phoenix (AZA) - Des Moines (DSM)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
Des Moines (DSM) - Phoenix (AZA)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
$305
$73
-$232
76%
Fri, Jan 16 - Mon, Jan 26
Tampa (PIE) - Des Moines (DSM)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
Des Moines (DSM) - Tampa (PIE)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
$225
$77
-$148
66%
Wed, Jan 14 - Mon, Jan 26
Tampa (PIE) - Des Moines (DSM)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
Des Moines (DSM) - Tampa (PIE)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
$225
$77
-$148
66%
Thu, Dec 11 - Sun, Dec 14
Sarasota (SRQ) - Des Moines (DSM)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
Des Moines (DSM) - Sarasota (SRQ)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
$188
$78
-$110
59%
Fri, Jan 16 - Mon, Jan 19
Phoenix (AZA) - Des Moines (DSM)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
Des Moines (DSM) - Phoenix (AZA)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
$305
$78
-$227
74%
Fri, Feb 20 - Mon, Feb 23
Santa Ana (SNA) - Des Moines (DSM)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
Des Moines (DSM) - Santa Ana (SNA)
Allegiant Air airlines • Direct
$180
$78
-$102
57%
The cheapest time to fly to Des Moines
Ready to jet to Des Moines on a budget? Check out these popular routes with surprisingly cheap fares (one-way prices):
Facts About Flights from United States 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.
DSM Airport Deal Stats
Current most discounted routes
Avg. most discounted routes (last 3 months)
DSM airport insights
Best days to catch a deal
Fri, Sun
Based on the data, Wednesday is the best day to find cheap flight deals from Des Moines International Airport. Monday also appears to be a good option for finding deals.
Avg. deal survival time
10.6 hours
Deals from Des Moines International Airport typically last for 10.6 hours. This means you should book quickly when you see a good price!
Rare deal frequency
7 deals
We found 7 rare deals for Des Moines International in the past month. These rare deals received an AI Deal Score of 90+ and usually include mistake fares, special promotions, or ultra-discounts.
Average price drop
-42%
The average price drop for flights to Des Moines International Airport is 41.9%, indicating a significant potential for savings. This suggests that travelers flying into Des Moines could benefit from monitoring prices and booking when they drop to maximize their budget.
Next 4 weeks: deal forecast
Des Moines International Airport Flight Forecast
Based on current data, flight prices to and from Des Moines International Airport are expected to remain relatively stable next month. There are no significant price drops or increases forecasted at this time.
Top 5 biggest price drops (last 3 months)
Found on November 28
Elmira - DSM
$738 → $123
83%
Found on November 29
Stuttgart - DSM
$1,750 → $411
77%
Found on November 30
Ioannina - DSM
$1,850 → $461
75%
Found on November 30
Mykonos - DSM
$1,800 → $489
73%
Found on November 28
Shymkent - DSM
$2,775 → $768
72%
Check these nearby airports too
Looking for more options? These airports near DSM sometimes drop rare deals too:
The Eastern Iowa (CID)
~6 rare deals/month
Des Moines International (DSM)
~6 rare deals/month
Eppley Airfield (OMA)
~14 rare deals/month
If you’re flexible with departure cities, it’s worth keeping an eye on nearby airports — especially CID and DSM for long-haul deal surprises.
When Is the Best Time to Fly from United States 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
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
des moines buccaneers vs. sioux city musketeers
Get your tickets to see the Des Moines Buccaneers take on the Sioux City Musketeers at RecPlex in Des Moines, Iowa on December 5, 2025. It's sure to be an exciting game!
dome for the holidays
Dome for the Holidays returns in 2025, bigger and better than ever! Experience the transformed tropical conservatory and Gardeners Show House. Bring the whole family to enjoy our lush oasis and create lasting memories.
oz after dark - burlesque show
Discover fun things to do in Des Moines, IA! Explore local events, weekend festivals, and free attractions perfect for families. You can also promote your own Des Moines event with us.
board of adjustment
The Board, composed of five West Des Moines residents appointed by the Mayor, is authorized by State Code to make special exceptions to the zoning ordinance, including adjustments to setback requirements, ensuring fair and considered development.
Des Moines Weather
Weather in Des Moines
Mon, Dec 1
35%
-6° -12°
35%
Tue, Dec 2
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.
