A few of the companies we’ve worked with
The Iowa State Capitol Building
No trip to Des Moines is complete without a visit to the Iowa State Capitol. Visible from miles away, its 23-karat gold-leafed dome is the standout feature of the city skyline. It is the only five-domed capitol in the country and sits grandly atop a hill offering panoramic views of downtown. For groups interested in history, politics, or architecture, this is a non-negotiable stop. You can arrange for free guided tours that take you through the Governor's office, the Supreme Court chamber, and the mesmerizing law library with its spiral staircases and tile floors. It is an educational experience that resonates with students and adults alike.
Parking a large number of personal vehicles near the Capitol complex can be difficult, especially when the legislature is in session. When you rent a charter bus with Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines, your driver can drop your group off right at the designated group entrance near Grand Avenue. While you explore the legislative halls and the surrounding monuments on the complex grounds, your driver will handle the parking logistics. After your tour, simply meet your bus at the curb and head to your next destination in comfort.
Iowa State Capitol 1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Located on the east bank of the Des Moines River, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a vibrant, 14-acre escape from the urban hustle. This destination is perfect for groups seeking a moment of tranquility or an educational deep-dive into horticulture. The centerpiece is the geodesic dome, which houses a tropical collection that thrives year-round—making this a perfect destination even during the chilly Iowa winters. Outside, you can wander through water gardens, a rose garden, and a conifer garden. It is also a very popular venue for weddings and corporate events, thanks to its stunning natural backdrops.
If you are planning a wedding or a private event here, a shuttle service is essential. Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines can provide seamless shuttle loops between the Botanical Garden and downtown hotels like the Marriott or the Hilton Des Moines Downtown. This ensures your guests arrive on time and don't have to worry about navigation. For school groups, the garden offers specific educational programs. A charter bus rental ensures all students stay accounted for and have plenty of room to store their backpacks and lunches in overhead bins while traveling to this beautiful oasis.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden 909 Robert D. Ray Dr, Des Moines, IA 50316
Blank Park Zoo
For family reunions, youth groups, and elementary school field trips, the Blank Park Zoo is the wildest place in town. Located on the south side of Des Moines, this 49-acre zoological park is home to more than 1,400 furry, finned, and feathered exotic animals. From the indoor Discovery Center with its free-flying birds to the African Boardwalk where you can feed giraffes, there is plenty to keep a group occupied for half a day or more. The zoo is dedicated to conservation and education, making it a valuable stop for any learning-focused itinerary.
Transporting a large group of excited children requires a vehicle that prioritizes safety and organization. Our 56-passenger charter buses are perfect for this. We can pick up your group from any school district in the state or neighboring areas and drive you directly to the zoo’s group entrance. Teachers and chaperones appreciate the onboard amenities like DVD players and flat-screen TVs, which can be used to play educational wildlife documentaries on the way to the park to set the mood. Plus, with undercarriage storage, there is plenty of room for coolers if you plan on having a picnic lunch in the designated areas outside the zoo gates.
Blank Park Zoo 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315
Science Center of Iowa
Situated in the heart of downtown Des Moines, the Science Center of Iowa (SCI) is a hub of hands-on learning and innovation. It features dynamic experience platforms including a planetarium, a designated makerspace, and exhibits focused on everything from zoology to physics. It is a fantastic destination for STEM-focused field trips or corporate team-building retreats that want to engage in creative problem-solving. The facility also houses a massive IMAX dome theater, offering immersive film experiences that are great for large groups.
Downtown traffic and parking can be tricky, especially near the popular Court Avenue district where the Science Center is located. By booking with Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines, you avoid the stress of finding multiple parking spots in parking ramps. Your driver can drop your group off right at the main entrance on Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway. While your group explores the interactive exhibits, your driver will park off-site and return exactly when you are ready to leave. This is particularly helpful if you plan to walk to nearby restaurants in the Court Avenue district for lunch after your visit.
Science Center of Iowa 401 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50309
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
One of the most photographed locations in the city, the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is located within Western Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines. This 4.4-acre park features more than 30 works of art by 25 of the world’s most celebrated artists. It is an open-air museum that is free to the public, making it an excellent, budget-friendly stop for large tour groups. The most famous piece, "Nomade" by Jaume Plensa, is a hollow human form made of white letters that invites visitors to walk inside it. It’s a cultural landmark that defines the artistic spirit of the city.
Because the park is located in a busy downtown corridor surrounded by businesses and restaurants, street parking for a bus is nonexistent, and parking for cars is metered and limited. A charter bus rental is the most efficient way to visit. We can arrange a quick drop-off along Grand Avenue or Locust Street, allowing your group to stroll through the park at a leisurely pace. Afterward, your bus can whisk you away to a dinner reservation at a nearby restaurant like Centro or Django without the group having to walk long distances.
John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park 1330 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Principal Park (Iowa Cubs)
If you are visiting during baseball season (typically April through September), catching an Iowa Cubs game at Principal Park is a quintessential Des Moines experience. As the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, the level of play is high, and the atmosphere is electric. The stadium is located at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, offering spectacular views of the State Capitol and downtown skyline from the stands. It’s a favorite outing for corporate employee appreciation events, bachelor parties, and family reunions.
Getting a large group to a sporting event can be a logistical nightmare if everyone drives separately. Coordinating arrival times and finding adjacent parking spaces is nearly impossible. With Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines, the party starts the moment you step on the bus. Your group can enjoy air-conditioned comfort and camaraderie on the way to the stadium. Your driver will drop you close to the gates so you don't have to hike from the overflow lots. After the game (and hopefully a fireworks show), you have a safe, reliable ride home, ensuring everyone gets back safely.
Principal Park 1 Line Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309
Living History Farms
Travel back in time at Living History Farms, an interactive outdoor history museum located in the suburb of Urbandale, just off the interstate. This attraction educates visitors about 300 years of Midwestern agricultural history. Groups can tour the 1700 Ioway Indian Farm, the 1850 Pioneer Farm, and the 1875 Town of Walnut Hill. It involves a fair amount of walking on unpaved paths, so it is an active and engaging experience. It is a staple for school field trips across Iowa, but also offers fascinating insights for adult tour groups and history buffs.
Living History Farms is located just off the intersection of I-35 and I-80, making it easily accessible for charter buses coming from anywhere in the state. Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines frequently transports groups here. We offer buses with ample storage for walking shoes, water bottles, and picnic supplies. Since this is an outdoor attraction, having a climate-controlled bus to return to is a luxury your group will appreciate, especially during the humid Iowa summers. Relax in reclining seats and cool off immediately after your historical trek.
Living History Farms 11121 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322
The Historic East Village
For a shopping and dining experience unique to Des Moines, you must take your group to the Historic East Village. Located at the base of the Capitol, this district is filled with trendy boutiques, eclectic restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. It is home to Raygun, the famous t-shirt shop known for its Midwestern wit, as well as high-end dining spots like Alba and zombie-themed casual eats at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. It is the perfect place to let a group roam free for a few hours of shopping and exploration.
The streets in the East Village can be narrow and parking is often at a premium. A minibus rental from Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines is the ideal solution for navigating this district. We can drop your group off at a central location on East Locust Street and pick you up later with all your shopping bags. Whether you are there for a bachelorette party bar crawl or a corporate lunch, having a dedicated driver ensures you can enjoy the district without circling the block looking for a meter.
Historic East Village E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Book Your Des Moines Group Trip Today
Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines is dedicated to providing the highest quality group transportation services in the region. We understand that organizing a group trip involves many moving parts, and we are here to ensure the transportation component is seamless, safe, and stress-free. Whether you need a shuttle for a corporate convention, a motorcoach for a sports team, or a party bus for a night out, we have the fleet and the expertise to handle it.
Our reservation specialists are available 24/7/365 to assist you. We can build custom itineraries, recommend vehicles based on your group size, and provide transparent pricing with no added fees. Don’t leave your Des Moines adventure to chance with carpools or rideshares. Trust the professionals. Call us today at 319-304-4690 to get your free, no-obligation quote in less than 30 seconds. We would love to earn your business!
Frequently Asked Questions About Des Moines Group Travel Transportation
How much does it cost to rent a charter bus in Des Moines?
The cost of a charter bus rental depends on several variables, including the size of the bus, the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the total mileage. For example, a local wedding shuttle booked for a few hours will have a different price point than a multi-day road trip to Chicago. To get the most accurate price, we recommend calling our team at 319-304-4690. We can provide you with a free, personalized quote in under 30 seconds based on your specific itinerary.
How far in advance should I book my bus?
We recommend booking your charter bus as soon as your date and itinerary are finalized. For peak travel seasons (such as spring for school field trips or summer for weddings), we suggest booking at least 3 to 6 months in advance to ensure availability and the best pricing. However, Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines has a large fleet and can often accommodate last-minute requests. Call us anytime to check availability for your dates.
What amenities are included on a charter bus?
Our modern fleet of charter buses comes equipped with a variety of amenities to maximize your comfort. Standard features on full-size motorcoaches often include plush reclining seats, climate control, onboard restrooms, overhead storage, and undercarriage luggage bays. Many of our buses also feature free WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and DVD players with flat-screen monitors. If you have specific amenity requests, such as ADA accessibility, please let our team know when you call.
Do you service areas outside of Des Moines?
Absolutely! While we are experts in Des Moines transportation, Charter Bus Rental Company Des Moines services the entire state of Iowa and the surrounding Midwest region. Whether you need a charter bus from Ames, Ankeny, West Des Moines, Iowa City, or Cedar Rapids, or if you are planning a trip out of state to Omaha, Kansas City, or Minneapolis, we can take you there. We provide long-distance charter services for groups of all types.
Bus types Available in Des Moines
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