Directions & Maps

Drake Law School is located in Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, and easily accessible by car, plane, or bus.

Des Moines is conveniently located at the intersection of interstates 35 and 80, and it is an easy drive from major cities such as Chicago, Kansas City, Minneapolis, and Omaha.

The Des Moines International Airport, which is served by several major airlines, is only a 15-minute drive from campus.

The Greyhound bus station is approximately five minutes from campus. The Megabus drop-off location (from Chicago or Omaha) is approximately five minutes from campus.

Campus Maps

• Campus Map 
• Parking Lot Map (click on the PDF)

A day pass is needed for visitors to park in designated visitor lots between the hours of 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. The closest visitor lot to the law school is at the corner of Carpenter and 25th Street. Visitors will receive an email confirmation for a requested visit from the Admissions office which will include a parking pass. The day pass must be printed and displayed in the front window of the visitor's car. Limited, free street parking is available on various streets surrounding campus, including 25th Street. 

For additional parking information, visit Drake Public Safety's parking information page.

Driving Directions

From the East and North

At the northeast edge of Des Moines, I-80 and I-35 join and go west around the city while I-235 goes through Des Moines. Take I-235 west for about six miles to the 31st Street exit, which is past the downtown area. You will see a sign that says "Exit 6, Drake University."

Exit I-235 at the 31st Street exit and turn right (north). Travel approximately six blocks on 31st Street to the stoplight at University Avenue.

At University Avenue, turn right and travel east until you reach the 25th Street intersection. Turn left (north) on 25th Street and travel one block until you reach the visitor lot at the corner of Carpenter and 25th. 

From the West and South

At the southwest edge of Des Moines, I-80 and I-35 join and go east around the city while I-235 goes through Des Moines. Take I-235 east to the 31st Street exit in Des Moines. Be sure you have passed the 63rd Street exit.

Exit I-235 at 31st Street and turn left (north). Travel approximately six blocks on 31st Street to the stoplight at University Avenue.

At University Avenue, turn right and travel east until you reach the 25th Street intersection. Turn left (north) on 25th Street and travel one block until you reach the visitor lot at the corner of Carpenter and 25th. 

On-campus Walking Directions

From Visitor Parking Lot

To reach Cartwright Hall or Opperman Hall from the visitor parking lot at the corner of Carpenter and 25th, walk west on Carpenter Avenue. Both buildings will be on the right after you pass the sun dial planter. 

The Office of Admission and Financial Aid is located in Suites 110-111 on the main floor of Cartwright Hall.