How Long Does It Take to Drive from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Merrillville, Indiana?

Are you planning a road trip from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Merrillville, Indiana? One of the first things you'll want to know is how long it's going to take. Here are some options for routes and what you can expect in terms of drive times.

Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Arlington Heights to Merrillville is via I-94 E. This route is 74.6 miles long and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes in good traffic conditions. However, if you're driving during peak hours, like rush hour, you should expect the drive to take closer to two hours. Keep this in mind when planning out your departure time.

Slow Route

If you're in no rush, and are willing to take the scenic route, you can travel via US-41 S. This will add about 10 miles to your trip, but you can enjoy some beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Your total drive time on this route should be about an hour and a half. You can take the time to stop at some of the beaches or parks along the way.

Traffic Patterns

During peak hours, you'll want to stay away from the I-94 E route and instead opt for US-12 W. During these times, the I-94 E typically experiences heavy traffic, which could slow you down considerably. However, if you're taking the trip during off-peak times, you'll be fine driving the fastest route.

Planning Your Departure

If you want to be in Merrillville at a specific time, make sure to take into account the expected drive time. If you're driving during off-peak hours, you can afford to be a little more relaxed with your timing. However, if you'll be on the road during peak hours, make sure to leave early enough to accommodate for delays. Plan on hitting the road at least two hours before your planned arrival time-- more if you want to leave room for bathroom breaks and snacks.

In conclusion, the drive from Arlington Heights, Illinois to Merrillville, Indiana takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes under good traffic conditions via the fastest route, covering 74.6 miles. However, the drive could take up to two hours during peak traffic. If you're willing to spend more time on the road, you can opt for the scenic US-41 S route, which will take about an hour and a half to complete. When planning your departure, make sure to consider the expected drive time and traffic patterns to avoid delays. Safe travels!