Navigating Illinois: The Commute from Carol Stream to Elmwood Park

If you're a resident of Carol Stream planning a trip to Elmwood Park, you're probably curious about the best route to take and how long the trip will actually take. Luckily, we've done the research for you! Here's what you need to know about commuting between these two Illinois cities.

The Fastest Routes

The fastest route to take is typically via the I-290 E and IL-64 E. This route is approximately 19.5 miles and takes around 30 minutes without traffic. However, if you're driving during peak hours, you should expect delays that could add up to another 15 minutes or more.

Another route you can take is US-20 E and IL-83 N. This is a slightly longer route at roughly 23 miles, but it can be just as fast or even faster depending on traffic conditions. Without traffic, this route takes around 35 minutes, but during peak hours you can expect it to take anywhere from 45 to 50 minutes.

The Slowest Routes

If you're looking to avoid the main highways and save on tolls, you can try taking North Avenue instead. This route is only about 14.5 miles, but during peak hours it can take upwards of an hour due to heavy traffic congestion.

Another slow route would be to take IL-53 N and IL-64 E. This route is approximately 21 miles and usually takes around 45 minutes in moderate traffic, but during rush hour it can take up to an hour or more.

The Distance

The distance between Carol Stream and Elmwood Park varies depending on the route you take. The I-290 E and IL-64 E route is approximately 19.5 miles, whereas the US-20 E and IL-83 N route is roughly 23 miles. The other routes fall somewhere in between at around 20-21 miles.

Peak Traffic Times

Peak traffic times are typically between 7-9am and 4-6pm on weekdays. If you're planning to make the commute during these hours, you should expect significant delays and plan accordingly. During off-peak hours, you'll likely encounter less traffic and make better time.

Conclusion

When planning your trip from Carol Stream to Elmwood Park, keep in mind the different routes available to you and the time it takes to travel between each city. The fastest route, I-290 E and IL-64 E, takes around 30 minutes without traffic, while North Avenue can take upwards of an hour during peak hours. And as always, be sure to adjust your travel time based on the heavy traffic that comes with rush hour. Safe travels!