Traveling from Ames to Philadelphia covers approximately 1,150 miles across the American Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. You will typically start by driving 45 minutes to Des Moines International Airport (DSM) for a flight. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Chicago and board the Amtrak Cardinal or Pennsylvanian lines. This journey transitions from the flat plains of Iowa to the historic urban landscape of Pennsylvania. Expect varied weather patterns, especially when crossing the Appalachian Mountains.
Total Distance: Driving distance 1,850 km, straight-line air distance 1,700 km.
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| Duration | 32 hours | 6 hours |
| Avg Price | $180 - $450 | $250 - $600 |
| Operator | Amtrak | United Airlines |
| Route | Jefferson Lines bus to Chicago Union Station, then Amtrak Cardinal | DSM to ORD to PHL |
| Tip | The Amtrak Cardinal offers scenic views through the New River Gorge, but check the schedule as it runs only three times weekly. | Book your flight from Des Moines (DSM) to Philadelphia (PHL) with a layover in Chicago (ORD) for the most frequent options. |
May to September for mild weather and clear skies across the Midwest.