How Long Is a Road Trip From New York to Chicago?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a road trip from New York to Chicago? If so, you might be wondering how long the trip will take.

The answer to this question depends on several factors, such as the route you take, the mode of transportation you choose, and any stops or detours you make along the way. In this article, we’ll explore all these factors and help you estimate how long your road trip from New York to Chicago will take.

Route Options

There are a few different routes you can take when driving from New York to Chicago. The most direct route is to follow Interstate 80 westward through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and finally Illinois. This route covers approximately 790 miles and takes around 12 hours to complete without making any stops.

Alternatively, you could choose to take a more scenic route that follows the Great Lakes shoreline through Upstate New York and Michigan. This route adds some extra mileage but offers stunning views of Lake Erie and Lake Michigan. It also allows for stops at popular tourist destinations like Niagara Falls.

Mode of Transportation

When it comes to traveling between New York and Chicago, there are a few different modes of transportation available. The most common options are driving or flying.

If you choose to drive, the time it takes will depend on your driving speed and how many breaks you take along the way. On average, drivers cover around 60-70 miles per hour on highways, so plan accordingly.

If flying is your preferred mode of transportation, then nonstop flights from JFK Airport in New York City to O’Hare International Airport in Chicago generally take around 2-3 hours depending on weather conditions.

Stops Along The Way

If you’re planning a road trip from New York to Chicago by car or RV then it’s always good to have some planned stops along the way. Some popular stops include Cleveland, Ohio for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Detroit, Michigan for the Henry Ford Museum, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin for the Harley-Davidson Museum.

Conclusion

So, how long is a road trip from New York to Chicago? That depends on your route and mode of transportation.

If you take the most direct route by car or RV without any stops along the way, it will take around 12 hours. However, if you choose a more scenic route or make stops at popular tourist destinations, then you should expect your trip to take longer. Regardless of which option you choose, make sure to plan ahead and enjoy your journey!