The Cost of Driving From Chicago to Wheaton: Your Ultimate Guide
Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Wheaton, Illinois? As you prepare for the adventure ahead, it's important to consider the various routes available, the distance of each route, the time it takes, and of course, the cost. In this blog post, we will explore different routes, factoring in gas prices and tolls, so you can plan your trip effectively.
Before we begin, let's take a quick look at the current gas prices and toll rates:
- Gas Prices: In Chicago, the average gas price per gallon is $2.91.
- Toll Prices: The toll for a passenger vehicle on most routes is $0.50 per toll plaza.
Now, let's dive into the routes and find the option that suits you best:
Route 1: The I-290 W Route
This route takes you from Chicago to Wheaton via I-290 W, I-355 N, and I-88 W. Here are the details you need to know:
- Distance: The total distance of this route is approximately 28.4 miles.
- Time: Under normal traffic conditions, you can expect to reach your destination in approximately 40 minutes.
Fuel costs for this route can be calculated as follows:
- One way: (28.4 miles / car's fuel efficiency) * gas price per gallon = Cost of Fuel
- Round trip: 2 * (28.4 miles / car's fuel efficiency) * gas price per gallon = Total Cost of Fuel
Please note that the fuel efficiency of your car may vary. However, with an average efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of fuel for this one-way trip would be approximately $3.46.
Route 2: The Roosevelt Road Route
If you prefer an alternative route, you can take Roosevelt Road (IL-38 W) from Chicago to Wheaton. Let's take a look at the details:
- Distance: This route spans approximately 26.8 miles.
- Time: Without any heavy traffic, this route will take you approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Using the same fuel efficiency calculation as before, at an average efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of fuel for this one-way trip would be approximately $3.27.
Route 3: The I-55 S and Butterfield Road Route
For a scenic drive, you can take I-55 S and Butterfield Road (IL-56 W) from Chicago to Wheaton. Here's what you need to know:
- Distance: This route covers approximately 30.1 miles.
- Time: With moderate traffic, you can reach Wheaton in approximately 50 minutes.
Considering the same average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of fuel for this one-way trip would be approximately $3.66.
Route 4: The I-290 W and I-88 W Route
Lastly, you have the option of taking I-290 W and I-88 W from Chicago to Wheaton. Here's what you can expect:
- Distance: The total distance of this route is approximately 24.2 miles.
- Time: Under normal traffic conditions, you can reach your destination in approximately 35 minutes.
Using the fuel efficiency calculation mentioned earlier, the cost of fuel for this one-way trip would be approximately $2.95.
Now that you have an overview of the different routes, distances, times, and costs involved, you can make an informed decision about your trip from Chicago to Wheaton. Remember, these calculations are estimates based on average gas prices and fuel efficiency, so the actual cost may vary.
Safe travels and enjoy your journey through scenic Illinois!