The Cost of Driving From Ithaca, NY to Indianapolis, IN

Are you planning a road trip from Ithaca, New York to Indianapolis, Indiana? Whether you're heading to the Indy 500 or just exploring the beautiful state of Indiana, it's always helpful to know how much that trip will cost you. In this blog post, we will break down the different routes to get from Ithaca to Indianapolis, highlighting the distance, time, and cost of each route based on current gas prices. So, fasten your seatbelt and let's hit the road!

Route 1: The Direct Path

If you're looking for the quickest route from Ithaca to Indianapolis, taking Interstate 80 and Interstate 71 is the way to go. The distance between these two cities is 645 miles, and it will take you around 10-11 hours to complete the journey.

Now, let's talk about the cost. Gas prices fluctuate, but as of the time of writing, the average gas price is around $3 per gallon. Considering an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need approximately 26 gallons of gas for this trip. Multiply that with the current gas price, and the estimated cost of fuel would be around $78. Keep in mind that this cost could vary depending on the specific gas stations along the route.

Additionally, there are some tolls along the way. You will encounter a toll on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which costs around $50. Don't worry; this cost is spread out over multiple exits and you have several payment options available, including E-ZPass.

Route 2: Exploring the Scenic Route

For those who prefer a more scenic journey with the opportunity to take in some breathtaking views, you can consider a slightly longer alternative route through the Finger Lakes region and Ohio. The total distance for this route is approximately 700 miles, which will take you around 12-13 hours to complete.

In terms of cost, the additional miles on this route will have a minor impact on fuel expenses. Considering the same average gas price and fuel efficiency, you would need around 28 gallons of gas for this trip, resulting in an estimated cost of $84.

Regarding tolls, there are some along this route as well. The Pennsylvania Turnpike toll remains the same, but you might also encounter a few smaller tolls on the Ohio Turnpike, amounting to approximately $10.

Route 3: The Budget-Friendly Option

If budget is a significant factor in your journey, you might want to consider a more wallet-friendly option through Ontario. This route includes crossing the U.S.-Canadian border, so make sure to have your passport and other necessary documents ready. The total distance for this route is approximately 675 miles, and it will take you around 12-13 hours to complete.

In terms of cost, gas prices in Canada are generally slightly higher than in the United States. With an estimated average price of $1.30 per liter and an average fuel efficiency of 9 liters per 100 kilometers, you would need around 92 liters of gas for this trip. This translates to an estimated cost of $120 in Canadian dollars. Keep in mind that you might also encounter tolls on some Canadian highways, so it's wise to have some Canadian currency with you.

Conclusion

As you plan your road trip from Ithaca, New York to Indianapolis, Indiana, it's crucial to consider both the distance and cost of your journey. Whether you prefer the direct and quick route or want to take the scenic path or even the budget-friendly option, knowing the estimated distance, time, and cost will help you make an informed decision. Don't forget to account for potential changes in gas prices and toll fees along the way.

So, grab your travel companions, load up your vehicle, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure from Ithaca to Indianapolis. Safe travels!