Driving Time between Arlington, Texas and Chicago, Illinois

A picture depicting driving

Road Tripping: How Long Does It Take to Drive from Arlington, Texas to Chicago, Illinois?

If you're considering taking a road trip from Arlington, Texas to Chicago, Illinois, you may be wondering how long it will take you to get there. The answer is, of course, that it depends on a number of factors, including which route you take and the time of day you're driving. Here's a breakdown of the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of those routes, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Route Options

First, let's look at the options for getting from Arlington, Texas to Chicago, Illinois. There are a few different routes you can take, but the three most popular are:

  • Route 1: I-35 N to I-80 E, through Des Moines, IA
  • Route 2: I-20 E to I-55 N, through Memphis and St. Louis
  • Route 3: I-30 E to I-40 E to I-55 N, through Little Rock and St. Louis

The fastest route is usually Route 2, which takes about 14 hours and covers 900 miles. Route 1 is slightly longer, at around 15 hours and 950 miles, while Route 3 is the longest, at over 16 hours and almost 1,100 miles.

Driving Time

Of course, the actual driving time will depend on a number of factors, including traffic patterns, the time of day you're driving, and your own driving style. On average, though, you can expect the following:

  • Fastest Route (Route 2): 14 hours without traffic, 16-17 hours at peak times
  • Route 1: 15 hours without traffic, 17-18 hours at peak times
  • Route 3: 16 hours without traffic, 18-19 hours at peak times

If you're looking to avoid traffic, your best bet is probably to leave early in the morning or late at night. Rush hour in major cities along the way, like Dallas, St. Louis, and Chicago, can add hours to your driving time, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the amount of time it takes to drive from Arlington, Texas to Chicago, Illinois will depend on a number of factors. However, if you choose your route carefully and plan to avoid major traffic jams, you can make the journey comfortably in two days. Whether you're driving for work or pleasure, take the time to enjoy the journey and stop along the way to enjoy some of the sights and sounds of America's heartland.