The Cost of a Trip from Bristol, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois in the Age of Soaring Gas Prices
Are you planning a road trip from Bristol, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois? Gas prices can be a major factor when it comes to planning a long-distance car trip. According to AAA, the national average gas price as of June 2021 reached $3.07 per gallon. A round trip from Bristol to Chicago that covers a distance of 230 miles will certainly add up at the pump. Let's take a look at the best route options and how much it will cost to fill up the tank.
Route Options
Option 1: I-94W and I-294S (via Milwaukee and O'Hare)
This route has a distance of 240 miles and can take approximately four hours, depending on traffic. Following I-94W, this route offers the most direct and straightforward path to Chicago with limited scenic views. Expect tolls to pay for on I-94W and I-294S.
Option 2: US-41S and I-294S (via Zion and O'Hare)
This route spans 235 miles and takes approximately four hours, depending on traffic. US-41S offers stunning views with Lake Michigan to your right and scenic nature overlooks. There are no tolls incurred in this route.
Option 3: US-45S and I-94E (via Kenosha and Skokie)
This route covers 240 miles and takes three and a half hours to complete, depending on traffic. The US-45S route offers peaceful countryside views and charming small towns. Tolls should also be expected on I-94E.
Pricing Breakdowns
Gas prices may vary from station to station. As of June 2021, the average gas price in Bristol is $3.13. We assume this is a local average across all Bristol gas stations. The graph below will show how much each route option costs based on the current gas prices. For this breakdown, vehicle mileage is set at 25 MPG.
| Route | Distance | Fuel Cost | Tolls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bristol to Chicago | 230 mi | $29.20 | N/A |
| Option 1 | 240 mi | $31.08 (including toll $2.88) | $7.80 |
| Option 2 | 235 mi | $30.04 | N/A |
| Option 3 | 240 mi | $31.08 (including toll $2.88) | $4.00 |
Based on the table, Option 2 seems to be the most economical and enjoyable route to take. Even if Option 1 and Option 3 may take less time to travel, travelers may have to pay toll fees and have limited scenic views. US-41S offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, scenic flyovers, and nature overlooks. Travelers can also save up to $2.00 in fuel costs compared to taking I-94W/I-294S.
Conclusion
In the end, the most direct route may not always be the best option. To get the most out of your time on the road, it's worth exploring possible routes and weighing the costs required. US-41S and I-294S can offer the best of both worlds, with a scenic view and no additional toll fees. With proper preparation and knowledge of the routes, you can create a budget that's just right for your road trip. Notwithstanding the cost, the trip to Chicago will take approximately four hours, depending on traffic. So sit back, be safe, and enjoy the ride!