Road Trips from Des Moines, IA
Where to drive next — curated by how much time you have and what you're in the mood for.
Total Routes
36
Shortest
0.2h
With Parks Nearby
4
Under 2 hours
13 total in this range
Full-day getaway
22 total in this range
Garner, IA
2h 19m112.1 mi one way
Corning, IA
2h 5m98.7 mi one way
Villisca, IA
2h 19m113.7 mi one way
La Porte City, IA
2h 23m112 mi one way
New London, IA
2h 56m146.1 mi one way
Weekend trip
Browse by Mood
Garner, IA
2h 19m112.1 mi one way
Corning, IA
2h 5m98.7 mi one way
Osceola County, IA
4h 45m229.7 mi one way
Villisca, IA
2h 19m113.7 mi one way
Osceola County, IA
4h 45m229.7 mi one way
Sioux City, IA
3h 39m198.6 mi one way
Dubuque, IA
3h 48m189.1 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Long daylight returns and parks begin peak bloom.
Summer
Fewer closures but plan for heat and heavier traffic.
Fall
Cooler temps and foliage make it the underrated season here.
Winter
Shorter days — prioritize shorter drives or southbound routes.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Des Moines, IA city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.