The Cost of Driving from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Skokie, Illinois: A Gas Price Perspective

Planning a road trip from downtown Kansas City to Skokie, Illinois? Whether you’re heading out for a family visit, a weekend getaway, or just to explore, understanding the costs involved can help you budget accordingly. In this blog post, we’ll break down different routes, their distances, times, and the costs involved based on current gas prices. Let’s buckle up and get started!

Route 1: The I-70 East and I-55 North Route

This popular route takes you through some interesting scenery and major highways, ensuring a smooth drive.

Distance: Approximately 500 miles
Driving Time: Around 7 hours and 30 minutes without heavy traffic
Gas Cost: With gas prices averaging around $3.50 per gallon and assuming your vehicle gets around 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 20 gallons of gas. That brings your total to $70 for the trip.
Toll Costs: This route doesn’t include many tolls, making it budget-friendly on that front!

Starting off on I-70 East from Kansas City and then merging onto I-55 North, you'll enjoy a well-paved journey across Missouri and into Illinois. Just keep an eye on your gas gauge and feel free to make a pit stop at one of the charming roadside towns along the way!

Route 2: The I-35 North to I-90 East Route

If you're looking for a different scenic experience, consider taking the I-35 North, which then merges onto I-90 East.

Distance: Approximately 525 miles
Driving Time: About 8 hours depending on traffic conditions
Gas Cost: Assuming the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon and a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 21 gallons of gas. This totals approximately $73.50 for your road trip.
Toll Costs: This route does have some tolls, particularly as you get closer to the Chicago area, which could add an additional $10-$20 to your trip.

This route carries you through the beautiful landscapes of Iowa, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the picturesque cornfields and small Midwestern towns. Plus, you’ll eventually meet the bustling streets of Chicago before reaching Skokie!

Route 3: The I-70 East and I-294 North Route

For those who prefer a quicker route to Skokie, the I-70 East merging into I-294 North could be the way to go.

Distance: Approximately 495 miles
Driving Time: Around 7 hours in good traffic
Gas Cost: Again, at $3.50 per gallon with a 25 miles per gallon efficiency, you’d use about 20 gallons of gas, resulting in a total of $70.
Toll Costs: This route also includes tolls, especially as you get towards the Chicagoland area, estimating around $15-$25 more, depending on traffic.

With this route, you’re likely to experience less congestion compared to alternate highways. Plus, it’s a straightforward drive with clear signage directing you towards Skokie!

Conclusion

Whichever route you choose, your journey from downtown Kansas City to Skokie, Illinois will be filled with interesting sights and experiences. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of gas and toll fees as you plan your trip. With prices fluctuating, it's always a good idea to check current gas rates before you hit the road.

So, make sure your playlists are ready, grab your travel snacks, and enjoy the ride! Safe travels!