Road Trips from West Des Moines, IA
Where to drive next — curated by how much time you have and what you're in the mood for.
Total Routes
25
Shortest
0.8h
With Parks Nearby
4
Under 2 hours
7 total in this range
Full-day getaway
16 total in this range
Red Oak, IA
2h 27m113.8 mi one way
Centerville, IA
2h 4m90.5 mi one way
Charles City, IA
2h 55m152 mi one way
Cedar Rapids, IA
2h 35m126.5 mi one way
Bridgeport, IA
3h 54m206.7 mi one way
Weekend trip
Browse by Mood
Sibley, IA
4h 58m224.1 mi one way
Red Oak, IA
2h 27m113.8 mi one way
Centerville, IA
2h 4m90.5 mi one way
Charles City, IA
2h 55m152 mi one way
Centerville, IA
2h 4m90.5 mi one way
Cedar Rapids, IA
2h 35m126.5 mi one way
Dubuque, IA
3h 56m195 mi one way
Denison, IA
2h 28m124.2 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 West Des Moines, IA city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.