Taking the scenic route: Driving from Aurora, Illinois to Hanover, Pennsylvania

Road tripping is an exciting way to travel. It provides an opportunity to appreciate the view, inhale the fresh air, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re planning to drive from Aurora, Illinois to Hanover, Pennsylvania, there are a couple of routes you can take. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 650 miles, with an estimated driving time of 10 hours.

The fastest route

The fastest way to get from Aurora to Hanover is to take the I-294S and I-76E. It’s the shortest route with a total distance of around 629 miles. This route goes through Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Expect to drive along a highway with little to no scenic views, as most of the drive will be on long stretches of highway.

Based on an average speed of 65 miles per hour, the estimated driving time is approximately 9 to 10 hours. Traffic is usually heavy from Chicago to Cleveland, and that's something to consider while making travel plans. But overall, if you're in a hurry to get to your destination, this is the route to take.

The scenic route

If you’re not in a rush to get to Hanover and have some time to spare, consider taking a scenic route that takes you through the heart of Pennsylvania. This route covers a total distance of approximately 760 miles and takes around 12-13 hours to complete. It involves traveling across Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.

The route takes you through the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, dotted with farms, and picturesque dotted landscapes. The route also takes you through a few historic small towns, allowing you to experience a bit of local charm. Driving through this route during fall is an added advantage as the foliage is breathtakingly beautiful.

Traffic patterns

Traffic is the most significant factor that can affect the travel time between Aurora and Hanover. The peak travel time is between 7 AM and 9 AM, and 4 PM to 6 PM, when traffic is the heaviest. You can expect more significant delays when traveling through cities such as Chicago, Cleveland, and Sheffield.

If you're traveling during low traffic times, such as late evening or early morning, expect to save about an hour of travel time, depending on your route.

Conclusion

Whether you're traveling for leisure, visiting family and friends, or relocating, knowing the different routes and travel times is crucial to a successful road trip experience. Taking the fastest route or a scenic drive both have their pros and cons.

If you're more interested in getting to Hanover as soon as possible, the fastest route will work best for you. But if you’re looking to enjoy some of the dramatic Pennsylvania countryside and historic towns, be prepared for a longer drive time. No matter the route you choose, anticipate the heavy traffic in cities and plan your travel times accordingly.