Road Trip to the Windy City: Travel Time Between Caledonia, Illinois and Chicago, Illinois

If you're looking to hit up the big city of Chicago but don't want to deal with busy airports or the cost of flying, a road trip might be just the thing you need. The distance between Caledonia, Illinois, and Chicago, Illinois, is roughly a hundred miles, making it the perfect weekend destination that is nearby. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely drive or want to get to the Windy City as quickly as possible, we've got the lowdown on your best options.

The Straight Shot via I-90

The straightest and quickest route is to hop onto I-90 heading towards Chicago. This popular highway is well-maintained, giving you a smooth and safe journey. The distance is about 95 miles, and you can cover the trip anywhere between an hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. It's an ideal route if you're on a bit of a tight schedule.

If you're looking for places to make a pit-stop, Schaumburg, about an hour outside of Caledonia, is a great option. The city is home to the Woodfield Mall, one of the largest indoor malls in the country with over 300 stores and restaurants. Plus, if you're looking for some outdoor activities, the Busse Woods Trail offers trails to hike that you could explore.

State Scenic Route Option Via US-20

If you'd prefer the scenic route, take US-20 that will eventually take you onto IL-72 and onto I-90. The route spans approximately 110 miles, and it would take just over two hours, so give yourself ample time to take in the scenery. While it might be more extended, the trip is worth it as you'll travel by small towns and farmland views. Plus, there are some excellent spots to pause at. Belvidere's Chrysler Classics Auto Museum, Rockford's Anderson Japanese Gardens, and the Sinnissippi Park in Sterling, are all ideal for some great picture opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs.

The Road Less Travelled via State Routes 251 and 72

Another option could be taking the State Route 251 that leads you straight to Route 72 and onto I-90. While it's a less traveled route, it's still very scenic, showcasing some of Illinois' lesser-known beauty along the way. The distance is nearly 120 miles, which would take about two and a half hours. However, the slow small-town roads offer a change of scenery from the usual highway view.

As you drive, there are not many options for stops, so make the most of them when you find them. Elgin, located midway through the trip, has some excellent coffee shops and urban parks worth parking up at. The Gail Borden Public Library doubles up as a museum, ideal for curious travelers, and the Fox River Trail, serves as a great bike and listening destination.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer to drive along the highway, the scenic routes, or the state routes, there is a selection of fantastic locations to pause and explore along the way. While each route is a unique experience and requires varying lengths of travel time, the fun is found in the journey and not only the destination. Be sure to pack snacks, drinks, and bring your favorite tunes, and let the road trip adventure begin! Whatever path you take, enjoy the sights and sounds of Illinois outside the big city.