The Cost of Driving from Chicago to Lemont: A Comparison of Routes

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Lemont, Illinois? Before hitting the road, it's always good to have an idea of the expenses you'll incur during your journey. In this blog post, we'll compare different routes, their distances, travel times, and costs based on current gas prices. So buckle up and let's get started!

Route 1: Via I-55 S

Distance: Approximately 26 miles

Travel Time: Around 35 minutes

Cost: Gas - $4.50 (round trip), Tolls - $2.80 (round trip)

Starting from downtown Chicago, take I-55 S to reach Lemont. This route is quite popular due to its convenience and ease of access. The distance covered is approximately 26 miles, which can be covered in around 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Considering the current gas prices and the fuel efficiency of an average car, the estimated gas cost for this round trip would be about $4.50. Additionally, when using I-55 S, you'll encounter tolls at the entrance and exit ramps, amounting to $2.80 for the entire round trip.

Route 2: Via I-294 S and I-55 S

Distance: Roughly 30 miles

Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Cost: Gas - $5.50 (round trip), Tolls - $4.40 (round trip)

For those seeking an alternative route with potentially less traffic, consider taking I-294 S and then connecting to I-55 S. This route takes you on a slightly longer journey of around 30 miles, but it may be a worthwhile option depending on the traffic situation.

The estimated gas cost for this route would be approximately $5.50. Additionally, due to the tolls on both I-294 S and I-55 S, the round trip toll expense will be $4.40.

Route 3: Via IL-171 S

Distance: About 21 miles

Travel Time: Roughly 35 minutes

Cost: Gas - $4.00 (round trip), No tolls

Lastly, if you prefer a scenic drive with no tolls, you can opt for the IL-171 S route. Although it covers a shorter distance of approximately 21 miles, it takes about the same amount of time as the other routes.

As there are no tolls on this route, the estimated gas cost for a round trip would be approximately $4.00. This could be a great option if you want to save a few dollars while enjoying a pleasant drive.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice of route will depend on your personal preferences, traffic conditions, and the level of convenience you seek. While all routes mentioned above will get you from Chicago to Lemont, it's essential to consider factors such as distance, cost, and travel time before making a decision.

Remember to adjust the expense estimates based on current gas prices as they may vary over time. Additionally, plan your journey appropriately, keeping in mind any potential road closures or construction activities.

So, there you have it! A breakdown of different routes, their distances, travel times, and costs to guide your drive from Chicago to Lemont. Have a fantastic road trip and stay safe on the roads!