What's the Cost of Driving from Ames, Iowa to Iowa City, Iowa?
Summer is upon us and that means it's time for road trips! If you're planning a trip from Ames to Iowa City, you'll want to keep in mind the cost of gas and tolls. In this post, we'll break down several routes you can take, the distance, the time it takes to get there, and the cost of each route based on current gas prices.
Route #1: Interstate 80
The first and most commonly used route to get from Ames to Iowa City is via Interstate 80. This route is approximately 120 miles and takes about two hours to complete. If you take this route, you'll only need to pay tolls one way. According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, the toll for a car is currently $4.50.
- Distance: 120 miles
- Time: 2 hours
- Gas Price: $3.15 per gallon
- Gas Cost (Round-trip): $22.68
- Toll Price (One way): $4.50
Route #2: State Highway 210
The second option is to take State Highway 210. This route is a bit longer at approximately 135 miles but can be a more scenic drive. The downside is that there are no toll roads on this route, so you'll need to factor in the extra gas cost.
- Distance: 135 miles
- Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Gas Price: $3.15 per gallon
- Gas Cost (Round-trip): $27.11
Route #3: U.S. Highway 30
The third option is to take U.S. Highway 30. This is the shortest route at approximately 100 miles but is a bit slower due to more traffic lights and stops. If you prefer a leisurely drive with more stops, this may be the route for you. There are no toll roads on this route either.
- Distance: 100 miles
- Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
- Gas Price: $3.15 per gallon
- Gas Cost (Round-trip): $18.05
Conclusion
Before embarking on your road trip from Ames to Iowa City, consider which route works best for you. If you're looking to get there quickly, Interstate 80 is the way to go. If you're looking for a more scenic route, consider State Highway 210. Lastly, if you don't mind a few stops and want a quick and easy way to get to Iowa City, take U.S. Highway 30. Whichever route you decide, be sure to factor in the cost of gas and tolls to ensure a stress-free trip.