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$90 Cheap Flights from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Des Moines (DSM)

View $90 flight on Mon, Oct 5, 2026Opens in a new window

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

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

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $90 for one-way flights and $245 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Fri, Sep 11 - Mon, Sep 14
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$245 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$245
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Mon, Sep 14, priced at $245 found 2 days ago
United
Mon, Feb 15 - Tue, Feb 16
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$259 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$259
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Mon, Feb 15 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Tue, Feb 16, priced at $259 found 6 days ago
Delta
Fri, Oct 16 - Wed, Oct 21
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$264 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$264
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Oct 16 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $264 found 5 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Fri, Oct 16 - Wed, Oct 21
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$264 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$264
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 16 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $264 found 5 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Fri, Oct 16 - Wed, Oct 21
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$265 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$265
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 16 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $265 found 5 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Mon, Nov 9 - Wed, Nov 11
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$277 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$277
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Mon, Nov 9 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Wed, Nov 11, priced at $277 found 6 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Sep 19 - Mon, Sep 21
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$279 Roundtrip, just found
$279
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 19 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Mon, Sep 21, priced at $279 just found
United
Sun, Sep 6 - Mon, Sep 7
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$280 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$280
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Sun, Sep 6 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Mon, Sep 7, priced at $280 found 6 days ago
United
Fri, Oct 16 - Wed, Oct 21
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$281 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$281
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Oct 16 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $281 found 5 days ago
United
Tue, Sep 8 - Wed, Sep 9
GRR
Grand Rapids
DSM
Des Moines
$282 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$282
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select United flight, departing Tue, Sep 8 from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $282 found 6 days ago

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

October is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $200 - $380 per traveler.

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

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

Travel from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Des Moines (DSM) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights from Grand Rapids or prefer full-service options, you can compare itineraries that align with your budget and schedule. As you plan your visit to Des Moines and its renowned attractions, be sure to check the essential details for flights from Gerald R. Ford International Airport to Des Moines International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m 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 $100–$335, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

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

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, particularly for one-stop service. Common layover points include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with about a 1 hour and 15-minute layover, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with an approximate 1-hour layover, and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP) featuring around a 1 hour and 30-minute layover. This variety allows you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for an optimal itinerary.

  • United: This carrier provides comprehensive service with convenient one-stop options. One-way ticket prices generally fall between $100 and $335. United represents around 42% of flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of about 4 hours, including layovers.
  • American Airlines: Another full-service option, this airline offers one-stop journeys with one-way fares typically ranging from $105 to $310. American Airlines accounts for roughly 31% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel duration of approximately 4 hours, including layovers.
  • Delta: This full-service airline also provides one-stop service, with one-way fares commonly between $100 and $335. Delta comprises about 26% of the departures along this route, maintaining an in-flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes, with the overall journey taking around 4 hours, factoring in layovers.

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

The most popular months for travelers flying from Grand Rapids to Des Moines are June, July, and October, when peak temperatures in Des Moines reach up to 74.8°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 73.4°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $152. Flight availability peaks in January, with approximately 10 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $152, roughly 28% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Most flight options: January has the highest number of flights from Grand Rapids to Des Moines, 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
January21.7°F (-5.7°C)Average10$224
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)Average9$191
March39.6°F (4.2°C)Average8$243
April50.2°F (10.1°C)Average8$234
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Average9$237
June71.8°F (22.1°C)Moderately High9$238
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Moderately High9$203
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Moderately Low7$182
September66.9°F (19.4°C)Average9$152
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Moderately High9$198
November40.5°F (4.7°C)Moderately Low8$200
December29.3°F (-1.5°C)Moderately Low8$256

*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 Grand Rapids (GRR) to Des Moines (DSM)

  • Holland to Des Moines (HLM-DSM): Park Township Airport (HLM) is located approximately 33 miles from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), providing convenient access for travelers heading to Des Moines.

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

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Grand Rapids to Des Moines 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 typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures, from 5 am to 12 pm, tend to offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Monday usually yields cheaper fares, while Thursday remains the busiest 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 Des Moines International Airport from Gerald R. Ford International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Des Moines, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Des Moines International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Des Moines 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $90 and cheap return flights from $245 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $130 and $445, and roundtrip flights usually range from $296 to $863. 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from GRR to DSM is September when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Enter GRR to DSM and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Des Moines (DSM) with a layover in Midway Intl. (MDW), starting from around $231 for a round-trip ticket. 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Des Moines (DSM) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This service operates seasonally in April and May, and an early departure can help you make the most of your day in Des Moines. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Des Moines (DSM) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 33% of passengers prefer this time window. Major carriers like United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines operate flights during this time. This timing is favored as it allows travelers to reach Des Moines early in the day.
How long does it take to fly from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
Flying from GRR to DSM with a connection usually takes about 6 hours, 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the GRR to DSM route. First class cabins are available on:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Des Moines from Gerald R. Ford Intl. (GRR)?
From Gerald R. Ford Intl. (GRR), you can fly into Des Moines Intl. (DSM) to reach Des Moines. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Midway Intl. (MDW), Denver Intl. (DEN), Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI) before reaching Des Moines. 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.) Des Moines 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 Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines Intl.)?
If you booked your Grand Rapids, MI (GRR-Gerald R. Ford Intl.) to Des Moines, IA (DSM-Des Moines 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
Gerald R. Ford Intl.
Destination airport
Des Moines Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$244
Distance
425 mi

Book with confidence

Grand Rapids to Des Moines Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Grand Rapids to Des Moines

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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Grand Rapids to Des Moines with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

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

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Grand Rapids to Des Moines: 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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines

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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $90 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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines 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 Grand Rapids to Des Moines 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.

 

Grand Rapids to Des Moines Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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