The Cost of a Road Trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Chicago, Illinois based on Current Gas Prices
If you are planning a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Chicago, Illinois, you may be wondering about the cost of driving there. There are different options for route, and the cost will vary depending on the current gas prices, the type of vehicle you are driving, and the distance traveled. In this article, we will discuss the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.
Route Options
There are several routes you may take from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Chicago, Illinois. The two main options are via Interstate 80 or Interstate 88. Other options include the scenic Great River Road or a more northerly route via US 52 towards Dubuque.
Route 1: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via I-80
The first option is to take Interstate 80, which is the most direct and commonly used route. This route will take you directly to the city, and it offers an opportunity to see other cities and attractions along the way. The distance of this route is approximately 227 miles, and it should take you about three and a half hours to get to Chicago.
Route 2: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via I-88
The second option is to take Interstate 88, which is also known as the Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway. This route is slightly longer, at 243 miles, but it may be a better option for travelers who are looking to avoid traffic in the city. This route will take you through different towns, but you'll spend less time in each town. It should take you about four hours to get to Chicago via I-88.
Route 3: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via US 52
A third option you may consider is traveling north from Cedar Rapids towards the Dubuque area. You can pick up U.S. 52 North in Dubuque and follow it to Savanna before linking up with Route 64/84, which will take you to the city. Although it is a more scenic route, it is also more indirect and can be quite time-consuming, especially during peak travel times.
Route 4: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via Great River Road
If you have more time, you may want to consider taking the Great River Road, which will take you along the Mississippi River and through many small towns. This route takes longer, at approximately seven to eight hours, but it offers an opportunity to see some beautiful countryside.
Costs
Before starting your trip, it is essential to know the costs involved. The total cost of the trip will depend on a few different factors, including how many miles you drive, what type of vehicle you are driving, and the current gas prices. To get an idea of the costs involved, we'll use an average fuel price of $3.12 per gallon and MPG of 25 for all routes.
Route 1: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via I-80
If you take the I-80 route from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Chicago, Illinois, you will need to travel approximately 227 miles. Based on our assumptions, you will need approximately nine gallons of gas each way, or 18 gallons total. At $3.12 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip will be around $56.16, not counting any toll fees.
Route 2: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via I-88
If you take the I-88 route, you will need to travel approximately 243 miles. You will need around 9.72 gallons of gas each way or 19.44 gallons total. At $3.12 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip will be around $60.81, not counting any toll fees.
Route 3: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via US 52
If you take the US 52 route, you will need to travel approximately 297 miles. You will need around 11.88 gallons of gas each way or 23.76 gallons total. At $3.12 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip will be around $74.11, not counting any toll fees.
Route 4: Cedar Rapids to Chicago via Great River Road
If you take the Great River Road, you will need to travel approximately 421 miles. You will need around 16.86 gallons of gas each way or 33.78 gallons total. At $3.12 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip will be around $105.29, not counting any toll fees.
Conclusion
Based on the routes and costs discussed above, the I-80 route offers the cheapest option in terms of gas expenses, especially compared to the Great River Road. However, keep in mind that you may spend more time in traffic or congestion while driving through the city. Overall, the Cedar Rapids to Chicago trip can take anywhere from three and a half hours to eight hours, depending on the route, traffic, and possible stops along the way. So, if you are planning a road trip that is cost-effective and fast, I-80 is your best bet. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!