Windy City to the Lehigh Valley: Travel Time from Chicago to Allentown

If you're planning a road trip from the bustling city of Chicago to the charming town of Allentown, Pennsylvania, you're in for an adventure! The distance between the two cities is approximately 700 miles, and there are several route options to consider for your journey.

Route 1: I-90 E and I-80 E

One popular route to take from Chicago to Allentown is to hop onto I-90 E and I-80 E. This scenic route will take you through the heart of the Midwest and into the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. The total distance for this route is around 700 miles, and the estimated driving time is about 10-11 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Along the way, you can make a pit stop in Cleveland, Ohio, to explore the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or stretch your legs at the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Once you reach the eastern part of Pennsylvania, consider taking a detour to visit Hershey, home of the famous chocolate factory, or Amish Country for a glimpse into a simpler way of life.

Route 2: I-94 E and I-80 E

Another option is to drive via I-94 E and I-80 E, which takes you through Indiana and Ohio before reaching Pennsylvania. This route covers a similar distance of around 700 miles and takes roughly 10-11 hours to complete.

As you pass through Indiana, consider making a stop in South Bend to visit the University of Notre Dame or explore the scenic beauty of Indiana Dunes National Park. In Ohio, take a break in Toledo to visit the Toledo Museum of Art or enjoy some time at Maumee Bay State Park.

Route 3: I-80 E

For a more direct route, you can take I-80 E all the way from Chicago to Allentown. This route covers the same distance of approximately 700 miles but may offer slightly faster driving times, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

While this route may not have as many major cities to stop in along the way, you can still find some hidden gems, such as the beautiful Starved Rock State Park in Illinois or the quaint town of Bellefonte in Pennsylvania.

No matter which route you choose, be sure to plan your road trip with plenty of rest stops and sightseeing opportunities along the way. Safe travels!