The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Milwaukee, Wisconsin

One of the many perks of living in Chicago is the easy access to neighboring cities - all just a short drive away. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or simply craving a change of scenery, a road trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin is always a good idea. But before you hit the road, let's take a look at the cost of the trip based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Scenic Lakeshore Drive

If you're in the mood for an unforgettable scenic drive, the Lakeshore Drive route is the way to go. This picturesque route hugs the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, offering stunning views along the way. The distance from Chicago to Milwaukee via Lakeshore Drive is approximately 94 miles, which should take you around 2 hours to complete, depending on traffic.

To make this trip, you'll need to hop on I-55 North and continue onto Lake Shore Drive. As you enjoy the serenity of the lake on one side and the towering skyscrapers on the other, keep in mind that this scenic drive comes at a cost. With current gas prices averaging $2.50 per gallon, you can expect to spend approximately $20 on gas for this route alone.

Pleasant bonus: No tolls along this route, so your wallet can breathe easy.

Route 2: The Efficient Expressway

If time is of the essence and you're looking for the most efficient way to reach Milwaukee, sticking to major highways might be your best bet. Taking I-94 West from Chicago straight into Milwaukee will get you there in a jiffy. The distance on this route is approximately 92 miles, and you can expect to complete the trip in about 1.5 hours, barring any unexpected traffic congestion.

On this route, tolls are aplenty. As you pass through various toll booths along I-94, be sure to keep spare change or your I-PASS handy. The total cost of tolls for this route is around $7. Additionally, with gas prices at $2.50 per gallon, you can expect to spend approximately $18 on gas.

Route 3: The Scenic Detour

For those who prefer a mix of beautiful scenery and a shorter drive, taking I-43 North through the countryside is a great option. This route offers a refreshing break from the highways while still ensuring a reasonable travel time. The distance on this route is approximately 86 miles, and it should take you around 2 hours to reach Milwaukee.

As you leave Chicago on I-94 East, take the exit onto I-43 North to enjoy a scenic drive through Wisconsin's countryside. While the splendor of nature is free, you'll still need to consider gas and toll expenses. With gas prices at $2.50 per gallon, you can anticipate spending approximately $16 on fuel. Toll fees on this route amount to approximately $3.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, a road trip from Chicago to Milwaukee promises to be an enjoyable adventure. From the serene Lakeshore Drive to the efficiency of major highways, each route offers its own unique experience. Be sure to factor in the distance, cost, and time for each route when planning your trip, and prepare accordingly. Safe travels!