The Road Trip Guide: Chicago, Illinois to Newport, Rhode Island

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from the Windy City to the beautiful shores of Newport, Rhode Island? As you embark on this exciting journey, let's explore the best routes and estimate the driving time, taking into account both the fastest and the most scenic options.

Fastest Routes: Getting There in a Hurry

Option 1: The Direct Shot

If you're all about getting to your destination as quickly as possible, hop on I-90 East and brace yourself for an 18-hour drive covering approximately 1,000 miles. This direct shot will take you through stunning landscapes, bypassing cities like Cleveland, Buffalo, and Syracuse. Expect to encounter heavy traffic around major metropolitan areas, especially during peak commuting hours.

Option 2: Cutting through Canada

For an alternative with fewer traffic hiccups, consider taking a detour through Canada. Cross into Canada at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel or the Blue Water Bridge and proceed to Toronto. From there, continue on the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) and eventually merge onto the QEW North. Continuing onto ON-403 East and QEW East will lead you towards the US-20 East. This 19-hour route spans approximately 1,100 miles and provides a change of scenery, although you will need your passport!

Slow and Scenic Routes: The Journey is the Destination

Option 3: East Coast Explorer

If you have some extra time on your hands and are up for some breathtaking scenery along the way, we highly recommend taking a coastal tour. Start by following I-90 East, as in Option 1, but once you reach Albany, New York, pivot onto the Taconic State Parkway. Enjoy the picturesque countryside and pass through charming towns as you head toward Connecticut. At New London, catch the ferry to Orient Point, and finally, continue along the scenic Route 25A East until you reach Newport. This scenic route, covering around 1,100 miles, will take approximately 22 hours if you drive continuously.

Peak Traffic vs. Low Traffic Times: Planning is Key

Regardless of the route you choose, traffic can make a significant impact on your travel time. To help you plan accordingly, let's take a look at typical driving times during peak traffic and low traffic periods.

During peak hours, particularly when approaching major metropolitan areas, expect your average driving speed to slow down. Taking into account these delays, a trip from Chicago to Newport could take up to 20% longer, adding approximately 3-4 hours to your journey.

On the other hand, if you prefer to hit the road when most commuters are tucked away in their homes, you'll likely encounter smoother traffic conditions. During low-traffic hours, you can expect to shave off around 10-15% of the total travel time, potentially saving 2-3 hours.

So, whether you choose the fastest route or opt for a slow and scenic adventure, planning your departure time can make a notable difference in your overall travel experience.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable road trip from Chicago, Illinois, to picturesque Newport, Rhode Island. Choose the route that best suits your preferences and time constraints, then prepare to make unforgettable memories along the way. Safe travels!