How Long Does It Really Take to Drive from Arlington Heights to Evanston?

As someone who's lived in the Chicago area for a while, I know firsthand that traffic can be brutal. So when someone asked me how long it takes to drive from Arlington Heights to Evanston, I knew that there wasn't a simple answer. There are multiple routes you can take, and traffic can vary wildly based on the time of day. So let's break it down and find the best way to get to Evanston in a timely manner.

Route Options and Drive Times

The fastest route between Arlington Heights and Evanston is typically via I-90 East and I-94 West. According to Google Maps, this is approximately 26.7 miles and should take around 35 minutes with no traffic. However, during peak rush hour times, this drive can take up to an hour or longer. On the other hand, if you go during off-peak times, such as midday or late at night, you may be able to make it in 25 minutes or less.

If you are looking to avoid highways altogether, there are several alternate routes you can take. One option is to take Lake Cook Road East and Sheridan Road South. This drive is around 17.8 miles and should take around 30 minutes with no traffic. However, during peak rush hour times, it can take up to 45 minutes or more. Going during off-peak times can cut your drive time down to around 25 minutes.

Slowest Routes to Avoid

One route to avoid completely during peak traffic times is Route 14 East. It can take up to an hour or more to make the 20 mile drive to Evanston during peak rush hour times. Similarly, going down Waukegan Road through Northfield can become a slow crawl.

Conclusion

So how long does it take to drive from Arlington Heights to Evanston? It really depends on the route you take and the time of day you decide to go. If you are looking for the fastest route and don't mind taking highways, then I-90 East and I-94 West is your best bet. Just be aware that during rush hour, you may want to add some extra time to your drive. Alternatively, going down Lake Cook and Sheridan Road lets you avoid highways and will also get you there within a reasonable amount of time, as long as you avoid peak traffic.

Regardless of which route you take, make sure to check traffic patterns before heading out. This can help you avoid unnecessary delays and make sure you get to Evanston on time. Happy driving!