Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct Amtrak service between Ankeny and Columbus.

What is the best highway?

I-80 is the primary artery for this cross-country route.

Yes, expect tolls on the Indiana and Ohio turnpikes.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 10 to 11 hours depending on traffic.

No, flights from Des Moines to Columbus require at least one connection.

Ankeny

Columbus

Flight Driving

Ankeny to Columbus

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Ankeny to Columbus spans approximately 650 miles across the American Midwest. Most travelers drive via I-80 East, passing through Illinois and Indiana. Alternatively, you can fly from Des Moines International Airport to John Glenn Columbus International Airport. The drive typically takes 10 hours under clear conditions. This route traverses the heart of the Corn Belt and the industrial Midwest. Expect significant traffic near Chicago and Indianapolis.

Total Distance: 1,046 km driving, 950 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Des Moines (DSM) is the fastest, taking roughly 4 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups of two or more.

Compare Ankeny to Columbus Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 15 mins	10 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$350-$600	$120-$180 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	DSM to CMH via Chicago O'Hare or Denver.	I-80 East to I-74 East to I-70 East.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for lower fares.	Avoid Chicago rush hour by taking I-88 or I-294 bypasses.

Travel Tips

Toll Roads
Carry an E-ZPass to navigate the Indiana and Ohio turnpikes efficiently.
Airport Parking
Use the economy lot at DSM for long-term savings.
Weather Checks
Monitor winter storms on I-80, as lake-effect snow can impact travel.
Rest Stops
Plan stops in Davenport or South Bend for reliable amenities.
Time Zones
Remember that you will cross from Central to Eastern Time.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Keep an emergency kit with blankets and salt in your trunk.
Fatigue Management
Switch drivers every 4 hours to maintain alertness.
Vehicle Check
Check tire pressure before departing, as temperature changes affect PSI.
Emergency Contacts
Save state patrol numbers for Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.