Road Trip: Bloomington, IL to Hawkeye, IA

Are you planning a road trip from Bloomington, Illinois to Hawkeye, Iowa? You might be wondering about the best route to take and how long it will take to arrive at your destination. Well, look no further, because I have the answers to all your questions.

Fastest Route

If you're in a rush and looking for the fastest route, take I-74 W towards Davenport, Iowa. Then, take Exit 1B towards I-80 W. Continue onto I-80 W until you reach Exit 267A towards Cedar Rapids. Finally, take Exit 240 towards Hawkeye, and you'll arrive at your destination. This route is approximately 236 miles, and it takes around 4 hours without traffic. However, during peak traffic hours, the drive could take up to 5 hours.

Scenic Route

For a more scenic route with breathtaking views, take US-52 W towards Savanna, Illinois. From there, cross the Mississippi River and continue on IA-64 W towards Maquoketa. Finally, take IA-136 W towards Hawkeye, Iowa. This scenic route is approximately 294 miles and takes around 5 hours without traffic. However, with traffic, this drive could take closer to 6 hours.

Slowest Route

If you're looking for a more leisurely drive, take IL-116 W towards Peoria. Then, take IL-29 N towards Chillicothe, before getting on I-74 W towards Iowa City. Continue onto I-80 W until you reach Exit 267A towards Cedar Rapids. Finally, take Exit 240 towards Hawkeye, and you're there. This route is approximately 269 miles and takes around 5 hours without traffic. However, during peak traffic times, the drive could take up to 6 hours.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose, the most important thing is your safety. Be sure to take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and never drive if you're feeling tired. Of course, ensure that your vehicle is in good condition before embarking on your road trip.

Planning ahead for traffic patterns can also make your trip less stressful. If possible, try to avoid driving during peak traffic times. By doing so, you can potentially shave off an hour or more from your travel time. Regardless of which route you choose, don't forget to bring snacks, water, and your favorite playlist to make your road trip memorable and enjoyable. I hope this post has been helpful, and happy travels!