The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Cary, Illinois to Fayetteville, Arkansas

Are you planning a road trip from Cary, Illinois to Fayetteville, Arkansas? Whether you're moving, visiting friends, or just exploring, it's essential to plan your route and know how long the drive will take. In this blog post, we'll break down the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and calculate the driving time for both peak and low traffic times.

The Fastest Route

The fastest way to get from Cary, Illinois to Fayetteville, Arkansas is by taking I-55 South and I-40 West. This route covers a distance of approximately 717 miles and takes around 11 hours and 40 minutes to complete in moderate traffic conditions. However, during peak traffic hours, the drive could take up to 13 hours.

The Scenic Route

If you're in no hurry to reach your destination, you can consider taking the scenic route via Missouri. Start with I-55 South, then take I-57 South towards Sikeston, Missouri. From there, take US-60 West to Republic, Missouri, followed by US-71 South towards Fayetteville. This route covers a distance of approximately 800 miles and takes around 14 hours to complete.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route to Fayetteville is through central Illinois, then down through Missouri. Take US-14 West from Cary to Springfield, Illinois. From there, take I-44 West towards Joplin, Missouri, then I-49 South towards Fayetteville. This route covers a distance of approximately 870 miles and it can take up to 15 hours to reach your destination during peak traffic times.

Traffic Patterns

When it comes to driving, traffic conditions can make a massive difference in your overall travel time. To avoid peak traffic times, avoid driving through Chicago, St. Louis, and Little Rock during rush hour. Rush hour traffic usually occurs between 6:00-10:00 am and 3:00-7:00 pm on weekdays.

Final Thoughts

Driving from Cary, Illinois to Fayetteville, Arkansas is a long journey, no matter which route you take. However, taking the fastest route will allow you to reach your destination in the shortest time possible. If you have some extra time, taking the scenic route could be an excellent opportunity to explore some beautiful scenery along the way. Regardless of your choice, always check the traffic conditions before starting your journey, and don't forget to pack some snacks and plenty of water to keep you hydrated. Safe travels!