Flying from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Columbus: what you need to know
The timezone in Columbus is UTC-4. The city is one hour ahead of Des Moines, where Des Moines International Airport is located.
For a relaxed start to your DSM to Columbus flight, leave plenty of time to check in and drop off your luggage. Turning up two hours before international departures and an hour before domestic flights is the standard rule.
Delays at security and check-in are more likely if you're flying during high season, so give yourself some extra wiggle room. A good rule of thumb for peak times? Get there up to four hours ahead for international flights and two hours for domestic departures.
Located around 6 kilometres from central Des Moines, DSM can be reached in about 15 minutes by car (depending on traffic). The journey on public transport takes roughly 45 minutes.
Booked an early flight from Des Moines International Airport to Columbus? Avoid the hassle of rushing to the airport (and catch some extra z's) by choosing one of these hotels near DSM:
80.45% of flights departing from Des Moines International Airport touch down at their destination as planned. Given its strong on-time stats, you're unlikely to face delays when flying out of DSM.
DSM's address is 5800 Fleur Drive, Suite 201.
How to find the cheapest flights from Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Columbus
The lowest price we've found for a one-way Des Moines International Airport to Columbus flight is $207. The cheapest price for a return flight is $428. Keep in mind fares can change due to demand at the time of booking.
Booking ahead of time is often the key to scoring a cheap flight from DSM to Columbus. Fares tend to rise as seats fill up, so the closer you get to departure, the more you'll likely spend.
The 'Whole month' tool will show you the cheapest tickets from Des Moines International Airport to Columbus throughout the entire month. It's a good way to snap up a bargain if your travel plans are flexible.
You don't need to check back constantly to find out if fares have dropped when you create a Price Alert. We'll notify you when there's an even better deal on cheap flights from DSM to Columbus.
Save on your flight from Des Moines International Airport to Columbus with the help of our filters. Select your ideal times, airlines and number of stops, then sort the results by 'Cheapest' for the best deals.
Airports in Columbus
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is around 13 kilometres from central Columbus. If you're grabbing a cab or a ride-share, the drive takes about 10 minutes.
It typically takes 1 hour 5 minutes if you're using public transport.
If you have a late flight from Des Moines International Airport to Columbus, nothing beats the convenience of staying near the terminal. Pick up your bags from the carousel and then be showered and relaxing not long after at one of these accommodation options near CMH:
Hit the road running by picking up a John Glenn Columbus International Airport rental car. Grab a set of wheels from Alamo, Budget or Avis and experience the lesser-explored corners of Columbus and beyond.
Improve your chances of getting a great deal by booking early. Reserving your vehicle from John Glenn Columbus International Airport at least a couple of weeks ahead of your flight from DSM to Columbus is a good move.
The street address for CMH is 4600 International Gateway.
Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK)
Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) is around 26 kilometres from the centre of Columbus. Following your flight from Des Moines International Airport to Columbus, it'll take you around 25 minutes to get to the heart of the city in a cab or ride-share.
The trip will take roughly 1 hour 20 minutes on public transport.
Relax and unpack not long after your DSM to Columbus flight at Best Western Canal Winchester Inn - Columbus South East. This comfortable accommodation option is a quick drive from LCK.
Best time to go to Columbus
Plan your trip to Columbus in peak season if you like a lively atmosphere, but remember that hotel prices may be higher. Alternatively, book flights from Des Moines International Airport to Columbus during low season when prices are cheaper and it's not as busy.
The warmest month in Columbus is July, with temperatures ranging between 15ºC (59ºF) and 30ºC (86ºF). Book your Des Moines International Airport to Columbus plane ticket then if this is the type of weather you enjoy.
January sees average temperatures of between -11ºC (12ºF) and 6ºC (43ºF). Look for a cheap ticket from DSM to Columbus around that time if you'd rather travel in cooler conditions.
More about Columbus
Once you've booked your flight from Des Moines International Airport to Columbus, find a hotel that offers both comfort and a great location. Make one of these options your base for exploring Columbus:
There are so many things to explore in this city it can be difficult to know where to start. Ohio Statehouse, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and German Village are highlights which should feature on any good Columbus itinerary.
Explore more of United States
You've seen Columbus, now it's time to discover other parts of United States. Travel around 451 kilometres north-west to Chicago to tick off its leading sights. From Millennium Park to Art Institute of Chicago and LandShark Beer Garden at Navy Pier, there's plenty to keep you on the go.
If you're looking to explore another side of United States, consider Indianapolis, roughly 274 kilometres west of Columbus. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Museum of Art and Indianapolis Zoo are the start of reasons to visit.
