Time It Takes To Drive From Chicago, Illinois to Highland, Indiana
Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Highland, Indiana? If so, it's important to consider the time it will take to reach your destination. In this blog post, we will discuss the various routes you can take, the distances of those routes, and the estimated driving times based on traffic patterns.
Fastest Route - Interstate 94
The fastest route from Chicago to Highland is via Interstate 94. This route covers a distance of approximately 28 miles. Under normal traffic conditions, it takes around 30 minutes to complete this journey. The majority of the drive is on the highway, allowing for a smooth and efficient commute. However, during peak traffic times, such as rush hour, the driving time can increase significantly to around 45 minutes to an hour.
Slowest Route - Surface Streets
If you prefer to take the scenic route or want to avoid highways, you can opt for the slower but more relaxed journey via surface streets. This route covers a distance of approximately 32 miles. Due to traffic lights, stop signs, and lower speed limits, it usually takes around 40 minutes to an hour to complete this drive under normal conditions. During peak traffic times, the driving time can extend to an hour and a half, sometimes even more.
Traffic Patterns and Timing
To plan your travels effectively, it's vital to consider the traffic patterns and timing. Peak traffic times typically occur during the morning and evening rush hours. From 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM in the morning and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the evening, the highways and surface streets experience heavy congestion. If you can, it is best to avoid driving during these times to minimize delays.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed and hassle-free drive, consider traveling during low traffic times. Early mornings, weekends, and late evenings tend to have lighter traffic, allowing for a quicker journey. During these periods, you can expect a reduction in driving time by approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the route you choose.
Recommended Routes
Considering both the fastest and slowest routes, the best option for most travelers looking to save time would be taking Interstate 94 during low traffic times. This ensures a smooth and relatively quick journey, taking around 30 minutes under normal conditions. However, if you prefer a more scenic drive or are traveling during non-peak hours, the surface streets route can provide a more relaxed experience, albeit with a longer driving time of around 40 minutes to an hour.
Remember to always check for real-time traffic updates and plan your trip accordingly. Safe travels and enjoy your journey from Chicago, Illinois, to Highland, Indiana!
Sources:
- Google Maps and Traffic Updates