Driving Time between Burlington, Iowa and Merrillville, Indiana

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Road Trip! Driving from Burlington, Iowa to Merrillville, Indiana

Are you planning to go on a road trip from Burlington, Iowa, to Merrillville, Indiana? Whether it's for business or leisure, your trip can be smooth sailing or a complete traffic jam. So, let's take a closer look at the different routes you can take, the distances, and the estimated driving time.

The Fastest Route

The quickest path from Burlington, Iowa, to Merrillville, Indiana, covers a total distance of 351 miles and should take approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes with no traffic. This route involves taking US-61 S and I-55 S/I-74 E. These highways have fast and smooth roads with a speed limit of up to 70 mph. Of course, heavy traffic can significantly impact your travel time on this route.

The Scenic Route

If you want to take a scenic route and avoid traffic, you can drive east to Chicago and loop back to Merrillville. This route adds 40 miles and an extra hour of driving time. However, it includes the picturesque drive through Chicago's famous Lake Shore Drive, which is worth the detour, especially in the autumn months when the leaves are changing color.

Slowest Routes

If you encounter heavy traffic along the way, these two routes may take longer than other options.

  • Route 1: I-80 E and I-55 S: This route covers 302 miles with an estimated driving time of 5 hours and 44 minutes in good traffic conditions. However, in heavy traffic, the journey can take over 7 hours.
  • Route 2: US-61 S and US-218 S: This route covers 322 miles, but due to low-speed limits and congested towns, the estimated travel time is 6 hours and can take more if there's traffic.

Peak Time vs. Off-Hours

The time of day can affect your travel time. Depending on your timing, a route that normally takes 6 hours can be reduced to four hours, especially if you choose to drive during the off-hours. You can check traffic updates on Google Maps, which often suggests alternative routes based on the real-time traffic situation.

So, how long does it take to drive from Burlington, Iowa, to Merrillville, Indiana? The answer depends on your route, the traffic, and other factors. Your best bet for a smooth and quick journey is to plan ahead, pack some snacks, and hit the road during off-peak hours. Whatever route you choose, your road trip adventure awaits!