Counting the Costs: A Driving Trip from Bowling Green to Louisville

Ready for a road trip? Whether you're moving to Louisville or just need a change of scenery, driving from Bowling Green to the Big City is a great way to enjoy the Kentucky landscape. But before you put the car in drive, it's important to plan out your route and calculate the cost of this journey. Here are your options:

Route 1: I-65N

The first and most direct route is to take I-65 North all the way to Louisville. This is the quickest way to get to your destination, taking approximately 1.5 hours to drive the 103-mile distance. If you're leaving from Bowling Green, you'll pass through Elizabethtown and Fort Knox before arriving in Louisville.

But what about the cost? According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Kentucky right now is $2.51/gallon. Based on this price, it would cost you about $15.06 in gas for this trip. Plus, there is a $4.10 toll on the Abraham Lincoln Bridge which connects Indiana and Kentucky over the Ohio River. So in total, you'll be spending around $19.16 for this route.

Route 2: KY-31E

If you're looking for a more scenic route, consider taking KY-31E. This route stretches over 120 miles, adding about 20 miles to your trip. While it takes nearly 30 minutes longer to complete compared to I-65N, taking roughly two hours and fifteen minutes, it offers beautiful views of the countryside and small town Kentucky charm. If you choose this route, you'll pass through Hodgenville and Bardstown on your way to Louisville.

So, what's the cost breakdown for KY-31E? You'll still be spending roughly the same amount on gas, but there are no tolls on this route. In total, you'll be spending around $19.16 for this trip.

Route 3: I-65N & I-265E

Another option for a quicker route is to take I-65N and then connect to I-265E. This route is roughly the same distance as Route 1, but it takes slightly longer at two hours of driving time, as you'll have to navigate through a series of highways to get to your destination. But if you're looking to bypass the heavy traffic of downtown Louisville, this may be a good option for you. You'll avoid driving through the city entirely.

So how much will this route cost? The gas cost will still be the same at around $15.06, but there is also a $2.00 toll on the Lewis and Clark Bridge over the Ohio River. In total, you'll be spending around $17.06 for this trip.

Route 4: Take the Bus

If you're not up for driving, you can also take a Greyhound bus from Bowling Green to Louisville. The trip takes around 2.5 hours and costs around $21-29 per ticket, depending on the date and time you book. The bus drops you off at the Greyhound Station in Louisville's downtown area, making it easy to get around the city.

In Summary

Driving from Bowling Green to Louisville is a great way to enjoy the natural wonders that Kentucky has to offer. You have a few options when it comes to routes, from faster direct routes to more scenic detours. Depending on which route you choose, the cost will vary slightly - but you can expect to spend between $17.06 - $19.16 in gas and tolls for the trip. But no matter which way you choose to go, one thing is for sure - the journey will be just as memorable as the destination.