The Cost of a Trip Between Antioch, Illinois and Williams Bay, Wisconsin

Road trips can be an exciting and adventurous way to explore new places, but it is essential to consider the cost of such journeys. In this article, we will examine the different routes between Antioch, Illinois, and Williams Bay, Wisconsin, and calculate the costs based on current gas prices. By the end, you'll have a clear idea of the best route to take and the estimated expenditure for your trip.

Route Options: Taking the Scenic Route or the Expressway?

When planning a trip, one of the first decisions to make is whether to take the scenic route or the expressway. Depending on your preferences and time constraints, each option may have its advantages.

Scenic Route - IL-173 and County Road H (64 miles)

Those who enjoy a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes might opt for the scenic route, taking IL-173 and County Road H. This route spans approximately 64 miles and is known for its charming rural scenery.

IL-173 runs through quaint towns and peaceful countryside, offering a relaxing drive. Combining it with County Road H adds a touch of natural beauty as the road winds through rolling hills, farmland, and occasional glimpses of the Fox River.

Expressway Route - I-94 and US-12 (63 miles)

For those who prefer a more direct and time-efficient route, taking the expressway is the way to go. The most common expressway route to get from Antioch, Illinois, to Williams Bay, Wisconsin, is via I-94 and US-12. This route spans a slightly shorter distance of approximately 63 miles.

I-94 is a major highway connecting Illinois and Wisconsin. It offers a faster and smoother drive with wider lanes, making it ideal for those looking to reach their destination quickly. Transitioning to US-12 near the Illinois/Wisconsin border, the road becomes a divided highway, still ensuring a swift and efficient drive.

Calculating the Costs

Once you've decided which route to take, it's time to calculate the costs associated with the trip. The primary cost to consider is the fuel expense. We will base our calculations on the current average gas prices and the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Fuel Efficiency

To estimate fuel consumption accurately, it's essential to know your vehicle's average fuel efficiency. For example, let's consider a mid-sized sedan with an average fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon (mpg).

Gas Prices

As of June 2021, the average gas prices in the Midwest region are around $3.20 per gallon. However, gas prices can fluctuate over time, so be sure to check the current rates before embarking on your journey.

Scenic Route Cost Calculation:

Distance: 64 miles Fuel Efficiency: 30 mpg Gas Price: $3.20 per gallon

To calculate the fuel cost for our scenic route, we divide the total distance by the vehicle's fuel efficiency and multiply by the gas price per gallon:

Fuel Cost = (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price Fuel Cost = (64 miles / 30 mpg) * $3.20 per gallon Fuel Cost = 2.13 gallons * $3.20 per gallon Fuel Cost = $6.82

So, taking the scenic route from Antioch, Illinois, to Williams Bay, Wisconsin, will cost approximately $6.82 in fuel expenses.

Expressway Route Cost Calculation:

Distance: 63 miles Fuel Efficiency: 30 mpg Gas Price: $3.20 per gallon

Using the same calculations, we find that the fuel cost for the expressway route is as follows:

Fuel Cost = (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price Fuel Cost = (63 miles / 30 mpg) * $3.20 per gallon Fuel Cost = 2.10 gallons * $3.20 per gallon Fuel Cost = $6.72

Taking the expressway route from Antioch, Illinois, to Williams Bay, Wisconsin, will cost approximately $6.72 in fuel expenses.

Recommending the Best Route

With the costs calculated for both the scenic and expressway routes, it's time to determine the best option based on your preferences and requirements.

If you value a relaxing drive through charming countryside scenery and don't mind spending an additional $0.10 in fuel expenses, the scenic route via IL-173 and County Road H is the perfect choice for you.

However, if time is of the essence, and you prefer a more direct and efficient drive, the expressway route via I-94 and US-12 is the better option. This route may help you save a few minutes of travel time and boast slightly lower fuel expenses.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, time constraints, and the desire for either a serene drive or a speedy arrival at your destination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are two main routes you can take from Antioch, Illinois, to Williams Bay, Wisconsin: the scenic route via IL-173 and County Road H or the expressway route via I-94 and US-12. Both routes offer unique advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your preferences.

After calculating the fuel costs based on a mid-sized sedan with an average fuel efficiency of 30 mpg and current gas prices of $3.20 per gallon, we determined that the scenic route costs approximately $6.82, while the expressway route costs $6.72.

In terms of time, both routes take a similar amount of time to travel, with a driving duration of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, considering normal traffic conditions.

So, whether you prefer a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes or a quicker journey on major highways, rest assured that your trip from Antioch, Illinois, to Williams Bay, Wisconsin, will be both enjoyable and cost-efficient.+