The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Center with an American flag, a statue, and a fountain.

$140 Cheap Flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

View $140 flight on Wed, Sep 30, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)

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Cheap Flights from Des Moines to Grand Rapids (DSM-GRR)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $140 for one-way flights and $284 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Delta
Sat, Oct 10 - Mon, Oct 12
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$284 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$284
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Oct 10 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Oct 12, priced at $284 found 3 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Oct 3 - Mon, Oct 5
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$294 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$294
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $294 found 1 day ago
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Sep 12 - Mon, Sep 14
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$295 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$295
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 12 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Sep 14, priced at $295 found 5 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$299 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 1 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $299 found 5 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Oct 3 - Mon, Oct 5
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$299 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $299 found 1 day ago
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Sep 24 - Mon, Sep 28
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$309 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$309
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 24 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Sep 28, priced at $309 found 3 days ago
United
Thu, Oct 1 - Mon, Oct 5
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$309 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$309
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Oct 1 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $309 found 5 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Oct 10 - Mon, Oct 12
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$311 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$311
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 10 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Mon, Oct 12, priced at $311 found 3 days ago
United
Fri, Sep 11 - Fri, Sep 18
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$316 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$316
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Fri, Sep 18, priced at $316 found 6 days ago
Delta
Mon, Oct 19 - Fri, Oct 30
DSM
Des Moines
GRR
Grand Rapids
$319 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$319
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Mon, Oct 19 from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, returning Fri, Oct 30, priced at $319 found 3 days ago

Alternative airports near Grand Rapids

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Gerald R. Ford Intl. GRR. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 15 minutes. Flights from $390
GRR
Gerald R. Ford Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center15 min
Flights from $390

Find the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $179 - $326 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Des Moines Intl. to Gerald R. Ford Intl.

Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR) at a glance

Travel between Des Moines (DSM) and Grand Rapids (GRR) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Explore various options from both full-service and budget carriers to uncover flights that align with your travel plans, schedule, and budget. As you prepare to discover the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Grand Rapids, be sure to review the essential flight information from Des Moines International Airport to Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 450 miles (725 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$340, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, particularly those offering one-stop service. Common layovers include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with about a 1-hour wait, Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP) at approximately 55 minutes, and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with a layover of around 1 hour and 30 minutes. These options allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for your ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides convenient one-stop travel options, with one-way ticket prices usually between $130 and $315. United operates around 43% of flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • American Airlines: As a full-service provider offering one-stop flights, American Airlines has one-way fares that typically range from $120 to $380. It accounts for about 32% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes, culminating in a total journey time of around 3 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in layovers.
  • Delta: This full-service carrier also features one-stop service, with one-way fares generally between $125 and $390. Delta handles roughly 24% of departures for this route, maintaining an in-air time of 2 hours and 45 minutes, and a complete travel duration of about 3 hours and 45 minutes when including layovers.

Best time to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Des Moines to Grand Rapids are April, June, and July, when peak temperatures in Grand Rapids reach up to 71.8°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 70.3°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $172. Flight availability peaks in January, with approximately 10 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February, April, May, and December have the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $172, roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August and October typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $178 to $189.
  • Most flight options: January has the highest number of flights from Des Moines to Grand Rapids, with approximately 10 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January24.3°F (-4.3°C)Average10$212
February24.8°F (-4.0°C)Average7$233
March35.2°F (1.8°C)Moderately Low8$206
April45.5°F (7.5°C)Moderately High7$237
May58.1°F (14.5°C)Average7$266
June67.1°F (19.5°C)Moderately High8$203
July71.8°F (22.1°C)Moderately High8$239
August70.3°F (21.3°C)Moderately Low8$178
September63.7°F (17.6°C)Average8$172
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Average9$189
November39.7°F (4.3°C)Average8$193
December31.3°F (-0.4°C)Moderately Low7$240

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative route from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

  • Des Moines to Holland (DSM-HLM): Located roughly 33 miles from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), Park Township Airport (HLM) serves as a convenient alternative for travelers.

How to find the best prices for flights from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Des Moines to Grand Rapids is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are generally available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Flights departing in the morning (5 a.m. to 12 p.m.) tend to be less expensive and are also the most sought-after times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday usually results in lower prices, while Friday remains the most popular travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Gerald R. Ford International Airport from Des Moines International Airport

Grand Rapids welcomes travelers from Des Moines with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Grand Rapids efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Grand Rapids, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Gerald R. Ford International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Gerald R. Ford International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $140 and cheap return flights from $284 Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $136 and $450, and return flights often range between $188 and $733. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
August is the cheapest month to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR), with average return fares around $207. This price is about 37% lower than the average throughout the year, as August is a quieter travel month. Other budget-friendly months to consider are September and October.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
Enter DSM to GRR and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to Gerald R. Ford Intl. (GRR) with return tickets starting from around $173. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
The ideal times to fly from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Rapids (GRR) are August and September. These months offer return flights at about $207, making them the cheapest options. August is great for summer activities, while September brings a lovely fall ambiance, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Des Moines International (DSM) to Gerald R. Ford International (GRR) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in April, allowing you to start your day early and make the most of your time in Grand Rapids. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
How long does it take to fly from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
Flying from DSM to GRR with a connection usually takes about 3 hours 50 minutes, traveling roughly 426 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from DSM to GRR. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Grand Rapids from Des Moines Intl. (DSM)?
From Des Moines Intl. (DSM), you can fly into Gerald R. Ford Intl. (GRR) to reach Grand Rapids. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL), Denver Intl. (DEN), Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. (MSP) before reaching Grand Rapids. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) Grand Rapids Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.)?
If you booked your Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) to Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Des Moines Intl.
Destination airport
Gerald R. Ford Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$284
Distance
425 mi

Book with confidence

Des Moines to Grand Rapids Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Des Moines to Grand Rapids

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Des Moines to Grand Rapids are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Des Moines to Grand Rapids with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Des Moines to Grand Rapids

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Des Moines to Grand Rapids: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Des Moines to Grand Rapids

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Des Moines to Grand Rapids in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $140 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Des Moines to Grand Rapids flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Des Moines to Grand Rapids airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Des Moines to Grand Rapids Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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