The Ultimate Guide to Drive from Abilene, Kansas to Wentzville, Missouri

If you've never driven from Abilene, Kansas to Wentzville, Missouri, you're in for a treat. The journey is lined with breathtaking scenic views, small watering holes, and old towns. Before you embark on the trip, it's essential to understand the different route options and the time it will take you.

Fastest Routes

The quickest way to attempt the trip is via I-70. This stretch goes to the northeast via Topeka and Kansas City, where you can drive on the I-270 turnoff to St. Charles and Wentzville. Using this route will set you back 4.5 hours for the 320-mile trip.

Slowest Routes

Take US-56 East via McPherson and Emprise to get to I-35 in Emporia. Then drive north to make it to US-50 East. This route will take you through Springfield to follow I-44 East to St. Louis city. From St. Louis, you can drive on the I-64 West to Wentzville. Using this route will set you back 7.5 hours for the 484-mile trip.

Distance

The distance between the two cities is approximately 344 miles via I-70 and 462 miles via route US-56 East and I-44 East. Depending on which route you choose, your driving distance will vary. You should also note that the complicated highways that the slowest route presents could take longer than expected.

Peak Traffic Time

The time you leave your house also impacts your trip significantly. If you're planning on taking the I-70 route, you'll find traffic mostly free except in Kansas City, where peak traffic hours peak between 7:00 am and 9:00 am. The slowest route, on the other hand, covers several cities with varying traffic patterns, making the timing unpredictable.

Low Traffic Time

If you time your trip correctly, driving from Abilene to Wentzville could be done faster. On off-peak hours, I-70 will take you approximately four hours with minimal stops and a steady pace. When driving through Kansas City, you can expect traffic to be free from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. After this, traffic starts picking up for the evening and night commuters. Using the US-56 East and I-44 East route, you can shave off two hours if you time your driving to avoid rush hour traffic.

Conclusion

Driving from Abilene to Wentzville can be an exciting road trip, whether you're traveling alone or with your family. Before you plan your vacation, ensure that you check the traffic patterns and choose your route carefully. Using I-70 is the quickest, most efficient, and straightforward option, while the US-56 East and I-44 East route is longer but includes some scenic stretches. Whichever route you decide to take, be sure to have your vehicle checked, bring snacks, and be mindful of your environment while on the road.