Nashville
Nashville
Des Moines
Des Moines
Flight Driving

Nashville to Des Moines

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance from Nashville to Des Moines is approximately 1,000 kilometers. Flying is the fastest option, with flights from Nashville International Airport (BNA) to Des Moines International Airport (DSM). Driving takes you northwest through Kentucky, Illinois, and Iowa via I-65 N and I-80 W. This route is a straightforward drive through the Midwest.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,000 km, straight-line air distance 850 km.
Fastest Way
Connecting flight takes approximately 4 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most economical option.
Compare Nashville to Des Moines Routes
Flight
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 4 hours 10 hours
Avg Price $200 - $400 $150 - $300
Operator Southwest Airlines Personal Vehicle
Route BNA to DSM I-65 N to I-80 W
Tip Connections are usually short and efficient. Expect heavy traffic in Chicago.
Travel Tips
  • Traffic
    Avoid driving through Chicago during rush hour.
  • Weather
    Des Moines winters are cold; pack accordingly.
  • Airport
    DSM is about 15 minutes from downtown Des Moines.
  • Dining
    Try the local Iowa pork tenderloin.
  • Navigation
    Use GPS to navigate around traffic in major cities.
Safety Tips
  • Road Safety
    Be cautious of snow and ice in winter.
  • Personal Safety
    Stay in well-lit areas when walking downtown.
  • Health
    Stay warm during the winter months.
  • Emergency
    Keep a winter emergency kit in your car.
People Also Ask
  • Are there direct flights?
    No, most flights require a connection.
  • How long is the drive?
    Approximately 10 hours of driving.
  • Is there a train?
    No, there is no direct passenger rail service.
  • What is the best way to travel?
    Flying is the fastest.
  • Is Des Moines safe?
    Yes, the tourist areas are generally safe.
Quick Info
  • From Nashville, Tennessee, United States
  • To Des Moines, Iowa, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May to September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

Things to Do in Des Moines
1
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Beautiful botanical garden with a stunning dome.
2
Iowa State Capitol
Historic building with a beautiful gold dome.
3
Grand Ole Opry
Experience the legendary country music stage in Nashville.
4
Country Music Hall of Fame
Explore the history of American music in downtown Nashville.
Tags
Nashville to Des Moines flights driving Nashville to Des Moines best way to travel to Des Moines Nashville to Des Moines distance Iowa travel Tennessee travel US travel guide road trip