Charter Bus Rentals Des Moines, Iowa

Charter bus rates vary significantly based on several factors, but generally range from $197–$519 per hour or $1,600 – $3,800 per day. Minibuses (18–25 passengers) typically cost $1,400–$2,500 per day, while full-size coaches (up to 56 passengers) run $1,900–$3,800+ per day. Multi-day and long-distance trips are usually billed by the day, while local transfers may be charged by the hour.

Here are four real-world examples of recent charter bus quotes in Des Moines to give you a better idea of what to expect:

1. Example #1: An insurance company is sending 40 employees from downtown Des Moines to a two-day training seminar at the University of Iowa in Iowa City. They need a 56-passenger charter bus for the round-trip and daily shuttles between the hotel and campus. Their quote is $4,100 for the two-day rental, plus a 15% driver gratuity. Final cost: $4,715.
2. Example #2: A high school baseball team in West Des Moines is traveling with 18 players, three coaches, and equipment to a weekend tournament in Omaha. They book a 25-passenger minibus for $2,200 and add a 10% tip. Final cost: $2,420.
3. Example #3: A wedding party needs guest transportation from hotels near Jordan Creek Town Center to a venue in Winterset and back. They request a 20-passenger minibus for a six-hour block. The quote comes to $1,350, including mileage and wait time. Final cost: $1,350.
4. Example #4: A corporate client requires an airport transfer from Des Moines International Airport to a downtown hotel for a visiting executive team. They book an 18-passenger minibus for a two-hour window at $225 per hour. Total charge: $450.

Every trip is different, so the best way to get an accurate price is to call our reservation team with your exact itinerary.

Several variables affect the final price of your charter bus rental in Des Moines, including the size and type of vehicle, the length and duration of your trip, the time of year, and current demand. Local events like the Iowa State Fair, Drake Relays, college football games, and downtown festivals can impact availability and rates. Additional expenses such as tolls, parking fees, driver accommodations, and gratuity may also apply. You'll pay either an hourly, daily, or per-mile rate depending on your itinerary. Contact our office with your trip details to receive a custom quote.

Yes, Des Moines Coach Bus Service provides ADA-accessible and wheelchair-friendly buses in Des Moines and statewide. We understand the importance of inclusive transportation and will supply a vehicle with lifts, securement areas, wider aisles, and accessible restrooms upon request. Please notify us of any accessibility needs when booking so we can accommodate your group.

Des Moines Coach Bus Service serves a wide range of groups across Des Moines and Central Iowa, including school field trips to the Capitol and Science Center, university shuttles for Iowa State and Drake, corporate event and convention transportation to venues like the Iowa Events Center, wedding and family reunion shuttles, athletic team travel for schools and local sports clubs, church outings, and airport transfers to DSM. We handle everything from local runs to statewide and regional trips.

Des Moines Coach Bus Service offers multiple bus sizes to fit any group. Our fleet includes minibuses seating 18, 20, or 25 passengers and full-size charter buses with up to 56 seats. Popular models include the Ford E-450, Grech Motors GM33, and MCI J4500. You can specify the exact capacity you need when you call.

Every charter bus rental from Des Moines Coach Bus Service comes with cushioned forward-facing seats, powerful air conditioning, overhead parcel racks, LED lighting, and a PA system. Larger coaches include a rear lavatory. Additional amenities available by request include reclining seats, USB/power outlets at each row, Wi-Fi, flat-screen video monitors, DVD/Blu-ray players, and rear luggage storage. ADA-accessible vehicles feature wheelchair lifts and securement positions.

You should book your charter bus at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to lock in the best availability and pricing. If you're traveling during a busy time—like the Iowa State Fair, college football season, or spring wedding weekends—reserve your bus 2–3 months in advance because vehicles sell out quickly and rates increase with demand. Last-minute bookings are accepted if inventory allows, but selection may be limited.

Getting a quote is simple! Just call our reservations team anytime at 515-904-8660 with your trip details, including pickup location, destination, travel dates, passenger count, and any special requests. We'll quickly generate a personalized estimate based on your exact itinerary. You can also use our online form to submit your information and receive a response within minutes. Once you have your quote, you can easily book your bus and secure your reservation with a deposit.

Your quote covers the base rental of the bus, driver compensation, fuel, and mileage for your specified itinerary. Additional costs not included are tolls, driver accommodations (hotel/lodging), cleaning fees, and parking passes. For example, parking fees at local venues like Wells Fargo Arena or Principal Park can range from $10 to $40 per bus, depending on the event. You are responsible for these extra charges, which will be billed separately or paid directly as required.

To book a bus with Des Moines Coach Bus Service, simply call our reservation line at 515-904-8660 or use our online quote tool to get an instant price. Once you receive your quote, you can confirm your reservation by signing the contract and making a deposit payment. The remaining balance is due before the date of your trip. Our agents are available 24/7 to answer questions, provide quotes, and help you choose the right vehicle for your group. We make the booking process fast, easy, and completely transparent from start to finish.

Des Moines Coach Bus Service provides charter bus service across Des Moines, Polk County, and all of Iowa—including West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Waukee, Altoona, Johnston, Clive, Pleasant Hill, Norwalk, Indianola, Ames, and more. We also handle long-distance trips to Chicago, Minneapolis, Kansas City, Omaha, St. Louis, and any destination you need. No matter where your event or destination is located, we’ll make sure you have the best transportation to get there!