How Long Does It Take to Drive From Apple Valley, Minnesota to Milwaukee, Wisconsin?

If you're planning a road trip from Apple Valley, Minnesota to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the first question that comes to mind is probably, "How long will it take?" Well, the answer depends on a few factors, such as which route you take and the time of day you hit the road. In this post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes and the estimated driving times for each.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest and most direct route from Apple Valley to Milwaukee is to take I-94E all the way there. This route is approximately 365 miles, and it will take you around 5.5-6 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Of course, if you encounter heavy congestion, this time could be longer.

If you're not in a rush and would like to see the scenic route, taking I-90E and then I-43S might be a good option. The distance of this route is a bit longer at approximately 383 miles, but it offers panoramic views of the countryside that you won't get on the I-94E route. However, keep in mind that this route will take you roughly 6-6.5 hours, and longer if traffic is slower than usual.

Driving Time Based on Traffic Patterns

If you leave Apple Valley early in the morning or late at night, you'll avoid heavy traffic and save time on your drive. Peak traffic time for the I-94E route is between 4-6 PM, so if you can avoid driving during those hours, you'll probably get to Milwaukee faster.

If you absolutely must drive during peak congestion, however, leave yourself plenty of time. With significant snarl-ups, it can take up to 7 hours to complete the I-94E route; whereas, driving during non-peak hours could save you one to two hours.

Conclusion

Driving from Apple Valley, Minnesota, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, can be a long haul, but with a bit of planning, you can make the journey less stressful. If time is of the essence, taking the I-94E route and avoiding traffic will get you there the quickest, while the I-90E and I-43S route may offer a slower, but more scenic experience.

No matter which route you choose, leave yourself enough time so that you don't feel the need to rush, and make sure you stop for rests and meals along the way. Bon voyage!