Flight
Driving
Des Moines to Memphis
Updated: 28 May 2026
Traveling from Des Moines to Memphis covers roughly 950 kilometers. The most direct driving route takes you south on I-35 through Kansas City, then east on I-70 and south on I-55. You will pass through the heart of the Midwest before entering the Mississippi Delta region. Memphis is famous for its barbecue and blues music history. This journey is manageable in a single long day of driving.
Total Distance: 950 km driving distance; 820 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying is faster, though total travel time is impacted by airport security and layovers.
Cheapest Way
Driving is significantly cheaper than flying for this distance.
Compare Des Moines to Memphis Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours | 10 hours |
| Avg Price | $250-$450 | $130-$200 in fuel |
| Operator | United Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | DSM to MEM via DEN or ORD | I-35 S to I-70 E to I-55 S |
| Tip | Flights often require a layover in a major hub like Denver or Chicago. | Stop in Kansas City for world-class barbecue halfway through your drive. |
Travel Tips
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BBQ StrategyResearch local favorites like Central BBQ or Rendezvous before you arrive.
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WalkingDowntown Memphis is walkable, but you will need a car to visit Graceland.
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Music SceneCheck the local music calendar for live blues performances on Beale Street.
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HydrationMemphis summers are extremely hot; carry water when walking outdoors.
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BookingBook hotels near the riverfront for the best views and access to attractions.
Safety Tips
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Area AwarenessStick to well-traveled tourist areas in downtown Memphis.
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Night SafetyAvoid walking alone in isolated areas after dark.
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Vehicle SafetyUse secure parking garages rather than street parking for your vehicle.
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EmergencyKeep your phone charged and have a backup power bank for long drives.
People Also Ask
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Is Memphis safe for tourists?Yes, tourist areas are generally safe, but remain vigilant as in any major city.
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What is the best way to get around?A rental car is highly recommended for visiting attractions outside the downtown core.
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Are there direct flights?No, there are no direct flights from Des Moines to Memphis.
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How long is the drive?The drive is approximately 10 hours of pure driving time.
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What is the best time to visit?Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for sightseeing.
Quick Info
- From Des Moines, Iowa, United States
- To Memphis, Tennessee, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
April or October to enjoy mild temperatures for walking tours.
Things to Do in Memphis
1
Graceland
Tour the home of Elvis Presley. It is one of the most visited private homes in the country.
2
Beale Street
Experience the historic heart of blues music. The street is lined with clubs and restaurants.
3
National Civil Rights Museum
Visit the Lorraine Motel, the site of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., now a powerful museum.
4
Sun Studio
Take a guided tour of the studio where rock and roll legends like Johnny Cash recorded their hits.
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