Road Trip: From Cary, IL to Eden Prairie, MN

Are you planning a road trip from Cary, Illinois to Eden Prairie, Minnesota? With distance being your biggest concern, it's natural to consider the time it takes to drive from point A to point B. There are a few routes you could take, but let's take a look at the options and the driving time for each.

The Fastest Route

If you're in a hurry and want to get to Eden Prairie as quickly as possible, take the I-294 N and I-94 W route. This covers 397 miles, and without traffic, you can make it in around 6 hours and 45 minutes. However, you must account for the usual delays caused by traffic, especially when passing through Chicago. Peak traffic times, such as during rush hour, could increase your driving time up to 9 hours.

The Most Scenic Route

If you're not on a time crunch and are looking to explore and take in the views, consider taking the I-90 W and I-94 W. This route goes through Madison, Wisconsin, and covers a slightly longer distance of 414 miles. However, it's worth it; the beautiful scenery along the way will take your breath away. Depending on stoppages for photographs and gas station stops, you could take between 8 to 10 hours to reach your destination.

The Route with Least Traffic

Heavier traffic could mean a longer drive time. For a smoother driving experience, take the I-39 N and US-52 W route through Rochelle and Dixon. This route covers 436 miles and avoids the busy highways around Chicago. It should take approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes without any stops. Even during peak traffic, travel time should not exceed 8.5 hours, which is not too bad considering alternate routes.

Tips for the Journey

It's good to not only consider the route but also packing enough food and water to get you through the long journey, especially if you're planning on taking the most scenic route. Gas stations and rest stops can be scarce in some parts, so keep an eye out for the best places to fuel up and stretch your legs.

In Conclusion

Between the fastest, most scenic, and least trafficked routes, you have different options to choose from when traveling from Cary, Illinois, to Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Make sure to let traffic patterns and road conditions inform how much time you should allot for the journey. Once you have a better idea of the time it takes to get from point A to point B, hit the road and have fun!