The Ultimate Road Trip: Bloomington, IL to Phoenix, AZ

Are you planning a road trip across the country? If so, you need to consider the time it takes to drive from Bloomington, Illinois to Phoenix, Arizona. The journey can be adventurous, exciting, and sometimes even frustrating based on the route you take. In this blog post, we will explore the fastest and slowest routes to travel between both cities, the distance of that route, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Bloomington, IL to Phoenix, AZ is through the I-55 South and I-40 West route. It is approximately 1,607 miles long and takes approximately 24 hours and 45 minutes to travel. The best time to take this route is during off-peak hours to avoid traffic congestion.

During low traffic times, you can expect to arrive in Phoenix in about 22 hours and 30 minutes. However, during peak hours, you should expect to spend about 27 hours on the road. Be prepared for heavy traffic during the summer months when families are taking vacations.

The Scenic Route

If you are not in a hurry and want to experience the beauty of the American countryside, consider taking the scenic route. The route passes through several states like Missouri, Kansas, and New Mexico. From Bloomington, take I-55 South, then I-44 West and switch to I-40 West in Oklahoma City. This route has around 1,678 miles and takes around 28 hours to complete.

You will need about 25 hours and 30 minutes to reach Phoenix during low traffic periods. However, during peak hours, expect to spend about 30 hours on the road. This route is excellent if you want to avoid the monotony of highways and enjoy small towns, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route, but one with plenty of attractions, is through I-80 West and I-25 South. Although this route extends for approximately 2,126 miles long, it offers stunning landscapes such as the Rocky Mountains, historic Route 66, and the Grand Canyon.

It takes around 32 hours to cover this route, and during low traffic periods, you will reach Phoenix in approximately 29 hours and 30 minutes. However, during peak hours, expect to take about 33 hours and 30 minutes.

The Final Destination

When you finally get to Phoenix, you will realize that the long hours you spent on the road were indeed worth it. Phoenix, often referred to as the Valley of the Sun, is home to exciting attractions, vibrant nightlife, and cultural diversity.

Whether you are in Phoenix for business or pleasure, make sure you engage in activities such as exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, hiking, visiting the Heard Museum, and enjoying its nightlife.

In conclusion, the time it takes to drive from Bloomington, Illinois, to Phoenix, Arizona, depends on the route you choose and traffic patterns. The fastest option through I-55 South and I-40 West route can be traveled in as little as 22 hours and 30 minutes during low traffic times. Choose your preferred route, pack your bags, and hit the road!