The Cost of a Road Trip: Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Lexington, Kentucky Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Lexington, Kentucky, involves considering multiple factors, including the distance, route options, and fuel costs. With gas prices fluctuating, calculating the total cost of your journey will help you budget effectively. This article explores various routes, estimated distances, fuel costs, and ultimately recommends the most economical option for your trip.
Distance and Routes Overview
The distance between Downtown Kansas City and Lexington is approximately 400 to 450 miles, depending on the route you choose. The journey typically takes over six hours of driving time without accounting for rest stops, traffic, or detours. Below, we will examine three primary routes, assess their costs based on current gas prices, and provide insights into which route offers the most value.
Route 1: I-70 E and I-64 E
Distance: 422 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Starting from Downtown Kansas City, you would take I-70 E towards St. Louis. After passing through St. Louis, follow the signs to I-64 E heading towards Louisville. This route takes you through charming towns and offers scenic views, crossing the Missouri River and traversing parts of Illinois and Indiana.
Cost Calculation:
- Fuel Efficiency: Assume you're driving a mid-sized vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (MPG).
- Gas Price: As of October 2023, the average gas price in the Midwest is approximately $3.50 per gallon.
To calculate the total gas cost:
- Total Distance: 422 miles
- Total Gallons Required: 422 miles / 25 MPG = 16.88 gallons
- Total Cost: 16.88 gallons * $3.50 = $59.08
Route 2: I-70 E and I-75 S
Distance: 438 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 7 hours
This route also starts on I-70 E towards St. Louis, but at the exit for I-75 S, you will head southeast towards Lexington. While this route may take slightly longer, it offers a different experience, passing through cities like Harrisburg and Richmond.
Cost Calculation:
- Fuel Efficiency: Again, we will assume an average efficiency of 25 MPG.
- Gas Price: The same average price of $3.50 per gallon applies.
For Route 2:
- Total Distance: 438 miles
- Total Gallons Required: 438 miles / 25 MPG = 17.52 gallons
- Total Cost: 17.52 gallons * $3.50 = $61.32
Route 3: I-70 E, I-65 S, and I-64 E
Distance: 413 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
This option takes I-70 E towards St. Louis, but at Tara Blvd, you will divert south to merge onto I-65 S. Follow this to I-64 E, which guides you directly into Lexington. This route is slightly shorter than the others and allows you to avoid heavy traffic areas.
Cost Calculation:
- Fuel Efficiency: We will continue using 25 MPG for average fuel consumption.
- Gas Price: Continuing with the $3.50 per gallon average price.
For Route 3:
- Total Distance: 413 miles
- Total Gallons Required: 413 miles / 25 MPG = 16.52 gallons
- Total Cost: 16.52 gallons * $3.50 = $57.82
Summary of Route Costs
| Route | Distance | Estimated Driving Time | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route 1: I-70 E & I-64 E | 422 miles | 6 hours 30 minutes | $59.08 |
| Route 2: I-70 E & I-75 S | 438 miles | 7 hours | $61.32 |
| Route 3: I-70 E, I-65 S & I-64 E | 413 miles | 6 hours 15 minutes | $57.82 |
Recommended Route
After analyzing the options above, Route 3 appears to be the best choice for travelers looking to minimize both time and cost. With a shorter distance of 413 miles, a driving time of 6 hours and 15 minutes, and a total gas cost of $57.82, you can enjoy a scenic drive through various landscapes while saving time and money.
Additional Considerations
While planning your trip, keep in mind that other factors may affect your overall costs. Lodging, meals, and entertainment can add significantly to your budget. Moreover, personal preferences, such as making stops along the way, might change how much gas you use.
You should also consider the weather conditions and check for any road construction or incidents that may impact your chosen route. Google Maps and other navigation apps can provide real-time traffic updates, which can help optimize your travel time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the trip from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Lexington, Kentucky, typically takes over six hours, depending on your chosen route. By selecting Route 3, which covers 413 miles and costs about $57.82 in fuel, you not only save money but also enjoy a convenient driving experience. The journey combines diverse scenery and accessible highways, making it an enjoyable ride. Overall, the road trip is a worthwhile adventure, providing opportunities to explore various sights along the way. So pack your bags, fill your tank, and hit the road to Lexington!