The Scenic Route: Driving from Bartlett, Illinois to Ligonier, Indiana

Are you planning a road trip from Bartlett, Illinois to Ligonier, Indiana? Whether you're heading there for a weekend getaway or visiting friends and family, it's essential to plan your journey properly, especially considering the time it takes to drive between these two cities. But don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, their distances, and the estimated driving time based on traffic patterns. Let's get started!

Route 1: Taking the Interstate - The Expressway to Ligonier

If you're craving speed and efficiency, taking the Interstate is your best bet. Head south on I-290 and merge onto I-88 West. Continue on I-88 until you reach I-80 East, which will take you straight to Ligonier. This route covers a distance of approximately 195 miles.

During peak traffic hours, expect some delays along the way, especially near major cities like Chicago. On average, it takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete this journey. However, if you hit the road during low traffic times, such as early morning or late evening, you can significantly cut down your travel time to approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Route 2: Enjoying the Scenic Drive - Through Rural Roads and Small Towns

If you prefer a more leisurely drive, exploring the beautiful towns and countryside, this route is for you. Head west on IL-64 from Bartlett, taking you through picturesque towns like Sycamore, DeKalb, and Oregon, before eventually reaching Ligonier. This route spans approximately 220 miles.

Since this route takes you through smaller towns and countryside, traffic congestion is less of an issue here. During peak traffic hours, it'll take you roughly 4 to 5 hours to reach your destination. However, when hitting the road during low traffic times, such as weekends or off-peak hours, the driving time reduces to around 3.5 to 4 hours.

Route 3: The Middle Ground - Half Interstate, Half Scenic Drive

If you want a balance between efficiency and enjoying the journey, this mixed route is an ideal choice. Start by taking Route 59 South from Bartlett, where you'll merge onto I-88 West. Continue on I-88 until you reach Rochelle, where you can exit the Interstate and take IL-38 West. This will lead you through scenic landscapes before reaching Ligonier. This route covers approximately 210 miles.

During peak traffic hours, this route usually takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours. However, when driving in low traffic conditions, such as during the weekdays or later in the evening, you can expect a driving time of approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.

Making Your Choice and Planning Ahead

Now that you have a better understanding of the different routes and their corresponding driving times, it's time to choose the one that suits your preferences and schedule. If you're short on time and value efficiency above all else, take the Interstate. For those who love a scenic drive and have ample time to spare, the rural roads are calling. Lastly, if you want a bit of both, the mixed route is an excellent compromise.

Remember, traffic patterns can vary, so it's essential to keep an eye on real-time traffic updates or use navigation apps to plan your journey accordingly. And no matter which route you choose, make sure to pack some snacks, fill up the gas tank, and bring along your favorite road trip playlist for a fun and stress-free drive from Bartlett, Illinois to Ligonier, Indiana.

Safe travels, and enjoy the journey!