Flight
Driving
Ankeny to New Orleans
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Ankeny to New Orleans covers approximately 1,100 miles. The most direct driving route is via I-35 South to I-55 South, passing through Kansas City, St. Louis, and Memphis. This is a classic North-to-South American road trip. Alternatively, you can fly from Des Moines International Airport to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Flying is the most convenient option.
Total Distance: 1,770 km driving, 1,500 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying is the fastest, taking about 5 hours total.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective for groups.
Compare Ankeny to New Orleans Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours | 17 hours |
| Avg Price | $350-$600 | $200-$300 in fuel |
| Operator | Southwest Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | DSM to MSY via St. Louis or Dallas. | I-35 S, I-55 S. |
| Tip | Southwest often has competitive rates for this route. | St. Louis and Memphis are great cities for overnight stops. |
Travel Tips
-
Airport TransitMSY is about 25 minutes from the French Quarter; use the airport shuttle or ride-share.
-
WalkingNew Orleans is a very walkable city, especially in the French Quarter.
-
EventsBook hotels months in advance if visiting during Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.
-
SafetyStay in well-traveled areas and avoid walking alone late at night.
-
FoodTry local specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, and po-boys.
Safety Tips
-
Urban SafetyKeep your belongings secure in crowded tourist areas.
-
DrivingBe cautious of flooding during heavy rainstorms in Louisiana.
-
Emergency KitKeep a first-aid kit and water in your car for the long drive.
-
NavigationUse GPS to avoid getting lost in the city's complex street layout.
People Also Ask
-
Is there a train?No direct train service exists between Ankeny and New Orleans.
-
How long is the drive?Approximately 17 to 18 hours of driving time.
-
Are there tolls?Some parts of the route may have tolls.
-
Is it better to fly?Yes, flying is much faster for this long distance.
-
What is the best route?I-35 to I-55 is the most common path.
Quick Info
- From Ankeny, Iowa, United States
- To New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
February for Mardi Gras or October for pleasant weather.
Things to Do in New Orleans
1
French Quarter
Experience the historic heart of the city, famous for its architecture, jazz clubs, and nightlife.
2
Garden District
Walk through this neighborhood to see stunning antebellum mansions and beautiful oak-lined streets.
3
National WWII Museum
Explore one of the top-rated museums in the country, dedicated to the history of the Second World War.
4
Café Du Monde
Enjoy beignets and café au lait at this iconic open-air coffee shop.
Tags
Ankeny to New Orleans drive
flights to New Orleans
I-35 to I-55 route
traveling Iowa to Louisiana
Ankeny to New Orleans distance
best way to New Orleans
Midwest to South travel
New Orleans trip planning
