The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Alexandria, Virginia

Are you planning a road trip from the Windy City to the historic city of Alexandria, Virginia? If so, it's always helpful to have an idea of the cost, distance, and time it will take for your journey. In this blog post, we will explore a few different routes you can take, as well as the associated costs based on the current gas prices. So buckle up, and let's get started!

Route 1: The Scenic Route

If you have some extra time and are in the mood for picturesque landscapes, consider taking the scenic route. This route will take you through some of the most beautiful countryside America has to offer. The total distance is approximately 750 miles and the estimated driving time is around 12 hours.

To get on the road, head south on I-94 and merge onto I-80 in Indiana. Continue following I-80, then merge onto I-70 East in Ohio. Keep going east on I-70 until you reach the I-76/I-70 junction in Pennsylvania, where you will take I-76 East (Pennsylvania Turnpike). Exit onto I-66 East towards Front Royal, and finally merge onto I-495 South towards Alexandria.

Based on current gas prices averaging around $2.85 per gallon, and assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, your estimated fuel cost for this route would be $171. Don't forget to budget for tolls along the way!

Route 2: The Expressway

If time is of the essence and you prefer a more direct route, the expressway is the way to go. This route might not offer as much scenery, but it will get you to your destination in a shorter amount of time. The total distance is approximately 670 miles and the estimated driving time is around 10 hours.

Start by heading south on I-90/I-94, following the signs towards Indiana. Stay on I-90/I-94 until you reach I-76 East in Ohio. Follow I-76 East until you reach the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76 East). Exit onto I-70 East in Breezewood, Pennsylvania, and continue heading east until you merge onto I-495 South towards Alexandria.

Using the same gas prices and fuel efficiency assumptions as before, the estimated fuel cost for this route would be $154. Remember to factor in tolls, as the expressway often has more toll roads.

Route 3: The Middle Ground

If you want a balance between the scenic route and the expressway, consider taking the middle ground. This route offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and a slightly shorter driving time. The total distance is approximately 710 miles and the estimated driving time is around 11 hours.

Begin by heading south on I-94 and merging onto I-80 in Indiana. Continue on I-80 East until you reach the I-76/I-70 junction in Ohio. Take I-76 East (Pennsylvania Turnpike), and exit onto US-15 South towards Gettysburg. Merge onto US-29 South and continue until you reach I-66 East. Finally, merge onto I-495 South towards Alexandria.

Based on the same fuel prices and fuel efficiency assumptions, the estimated fuel cost for this route would be $167. Keep in mind that there may be tolls along this route as well.

Time to Hit the Road!

Now that you have a better understanding of the different routes, their respective distances, estimated driving times, and associated costs, it's time to plan your trip accordingly. Remember that these cost estimates are based on current gas prices, so make sure to keep an eye on prices as your travel date approaches. Don't forget to include tolls in your budget, as they can add up quickly.

Whether you choose the scenic route, the expressway, or the middle ground, your journey from Chicago, Illinois to Alexandria, Virginia is sure to be an adventure. So grab your GPS, pack some snacks, and hit the road for a memorable road trip! Safe travels!