Driving from Brookfield, Wisconsin to Chicago: How Long Will It Take?

If you're looking to drive from Brookfield, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois, you likely want to know how much time it'll take you. Traffic can be unpredictable but understanding your options can help you plan ahead to arrive at your destination on time. Read on to compare your route options and find the most efficient drive times.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Chicago, then you'll want to take I-94 E. This route will cover approximately 110 miles and, if traffic is good, can take just under two hours to complete. However, keep in mind that construction and congestion can impact your drive time, so it's always best to check the traffic conditions before heading out.

The Slowest Route

Sometimes taking the scenic route can be a more enjoyable way to travel, but it also often takes longer. Taking WI-41 S to I-88 E to I-290 E can span approximately 130 miles, and it can take nearly three hours to complete. This route, if driven during peak traffic hours, can be the slowest option due to the merging roads.

Distance vs. Time

The faster route using I-94 E is shorter (110 miles) than the "scenic" route using WI-41 S, I-88 E, and I-290 E (130 miles). However, the latter route is not long when it comes to extra driving time. Traffic jams and congestion add considerably to your commuting time, which makes the scenic route three times longer.

Low Traffic Times

If you're willing to leave early in the morning or late at night, you can avoid the bulk of rush-hour traffic. With fewer vehicles on the road, both routes are almost guaranteed to be quicker. For example, if you take I-94 E when traffic is light, you could make the drive in around 1.5 hours – roughly 30 minutes faster than during peak traffic.

Peak Traffic Times

Peak traffic times are generally the busiest, and they are likely to cause some delays between Brookfield, Wisconsin, and Chicago, Illinois. This traffic can add an additional hour to your travel time. If you're taking the I-94 E route, then you should expect to experience the heaviest traffic between evening rush hour, and traffic can be bad if there's an accident or construction underway.

Conclusion

Driving from Brookfield, Wisconsin, to Chicago can take anywhere between two and three hours, depending on the route you take and the traffic conditions. By checking traffic before heading out on the road, you can better understand how long your journey will take and plan your route accordingly. Whether you take the popular or the less traveled roads, be sure to keep yourself entertained with good music, comfortable seats, or podcasts to ensure a more relaxing and stress-free ride.