Road Trip from Bowling Green, OH to Chicago, IL: Time, Distance, and Best Routes

Are you planning a road trip from Bowling Green, Ohio to Chicago, Illinois? There are many different routes you can take, and the time it takes can vary depending on traffic patterns and the roads you choose. In this post, we’ll break down the fastest and slowest routes, including their distance and drive times.

The Fastest Route: I-80 W

If you’re looking for the quickest way to get from Bowling Green to Chicago, your best bet is to take I-80 W. This 255-mile route will take you about 4 hours without traffic. However, be prepared to deal with heavy traffic during peak travel times, which can add at least an hour to your trip.

Alternative Route: US-20 W

Another option is to take US-20 W. This route is slightly longer, at 272 miles, but can be a good alternative if taking I-80 W is not possible. The drive time for this route is roughly the same, taking about 4 hours without traffic and at least an hour longer during heavy traffic.

The Slowest Route: OH-53 S

The slowest route to take from Bowling Green to Chicago is via OH-53 S. Though it’s only 181 miles, it can take up to 5 hours to complete. This is because it’s a predominantly rural route, with numerous small towns, speed limits, and frequent stops, which can slow you down.

Alternative Scenic Route: I-90 W

For a slower and more scenic drive, try taking I-90 W. This route is about 300 miles long and will take you around five and a half hours to complete without traffic. It’s also the most scenic route through Ohio and Illinois, with beautiful views of Lake Erie, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and more.

Time of Day and Traffic Conditions

The time of day and traffic conditions can heavily impact your driving time. During rush hour, which typically starts at 7:00 am and runs through 9:00 am, expect delays on I-80 W. Likewise, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, traffic on I-80 W can be quite heavy. The best time to start driving from Bowling Green to Chicago is before 7:00 am or after 8:30 pm for the fastest and less congested trip.

Final Thoughts

While I-80 W is the quickest route from Bowling Green, OH to Chicago, IL, it's not necessarily the one you should always take. Driving on US-20 W is an excellent alternative that might be more convenient and pleasant. The OH-53 S might be a fast and convenient route for some as it has fewer miles and passes through smaller towns. However, this route is lengthy and might take too long due to traffic or frequent stops. Plan your trip according to your schedule and preferences and leave early before rush hour to make the most of your time on the road.

Safe driving!