Planning a Road Trip? Here's How Long It Takes to Drive from Buffalo to Chicago

Are you planning a road trip from Buffalo, New York to the Windy City of Chicago, Illinois? Whether you're heading to the Midwest for a family vacation or to explore the city, it's important to know how long you can expect to be on the road. Here's a breakdown of the different routes you can take and how long they will take you.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route between Buffalo and Chicago is taking I-90 W for the entirety of the trip, covering approximately 538 miles. This route will take you through cities such as Erie, Cleveland, and Toledo. With no stops, you can expect to reach Chicago in about 8 hours.

If you want to take the scenic route, consider taking I-90 W to I-271 S, which takes you through Akron, Canton, and Youngstown. Then, take I-76 W to I-71 N, through Columbus and Mansfield, before finally getting onto I-90 W to continue the rest of the journey to Chicago. This route covers approximately 635 miles and can take you up to 10 hours, depending on traffic.

Distance and Estimated Driving Time

Regardless of which route you take, you'll be driving approximately 538 miles from Buffalo to Chicago. During off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, you can expect the trip to take around 8 hours. However, during peak hours, such as rush hour or holidays, the trip can take up to 11 hours.

Tips for your journey

If you're hoping to minimize travel time, be sure to avoid peak traffic times by checking on traffic patterns before setting out. Be prepared with snacks and drinks to keep your energy levels up throughout the drive and plan rest stops to help break up the long journey.

Overall, the drive from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL offers a handful of different routes depending on your preferences and travel style. From the fastest route without any stops to a more scenic trip through small towns and cities, each route offers its own findings to discover on the way. Whatever route you choose, be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the journey.