Road Trip Time: Ann Arbor, MI to Charleston, IL

Are you ready for a road trip? Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Ann Arbor and venture down to the quaint town of Charleston, Illinois? Whether you're headed there for business or pleasure, we've got the lowdown on the best routes and expected driving times.

The Fastest Route

Let's get to the point: the fastest route from Ann Arbor to Charleston, assuming light traffic, is taking I-94 and I-57. The total distance on this route is about 351 miles and should take approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. This route will take you through scenic Chicago and down through Illinois' stunning farmland. Take note, however, that peak traffic times could add up to an hour, so plan accordingly.

The Scenic Route

Maybe you're not in a hurry, and want to take your time and enjoy the scenery. A great option in that case would be to take US-23 and swing around Lake Michigan before jumping on I-94. This route adds some distance at approximately 410 miles, but you'll be able to stop and see some pretty fantastic views. You'll have the chance to drive through northern Michigan's scenic routes, before cutting through Indiana's farmlands, and down into Charleston. This route should clock in at about 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Other Options

There are other alternatives that you could take, for instance, I-69 passing through Fort Wayne, Indiana. This route takes approximately 6 hours and 21 minutes, at a distance of 375 miles, according to Google Maps. It will allow you to see Indiana's countryside but it's really not as scenic as the other routes because it's more on urban landscapes.

Therefore, stick to the options described above if you're looking to take in the sights on your way to Charleston.

Whether you prefer to get there quickly or at a more relaxed pace, there are options available for driving from Ann Arbor to Charleston. So grab some snacks, fire up the GPS, put on your favorite road trip tunes, and enjoy the journey.