A Road Trip from Champaign, Illinois, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin: How Much Does It Cost?

Are you planning a trip from Champaign, Illinois, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and wondering how much it will cost you? You are in the right place. This article will look at the different possible routes you can take, the estimated cost of each route based on current gas prices, and recommend the best route.

Possible Routes

Route 1: Via I-57N/I-94E

This route goes through the city of Chicago. From Champaign, you will take I-57N towards Chicago. When you get to the I-94 junction, take the I-94E to Milwaukee. The total distance is approximately 193 miles, and the estimated driving time is about three hours.

Route 2: Via I-39N and I-90W

This route takes you through Madison, the capital city of Wisconsin. From Champaign, you will take I-57N towards Bloomington-Normal, then take I-39N towards Rockford. At the I-39/I-90 junction, take I-90W towards Madison. From Madison, take I-94E to Milwaukee. The total distance is approximately 255 miles, and the estimated driving time is about four hours.

Route 3: Via US-45N and I-43N

This route is through smaller towns in Illinois and Wisconsin, and it may be a good option if you prefer a more scenic drive. From Champaign, you will take US-45N towards Rantoul, then continue on US-45N towards Antigo. In Antigo, take WI-64W towards Merrill, then take US-51N towards Wausau. From Wausau, take I-39S/I-90W towards Madison, then take I-43N to Milwaukee. The total distance is approximately 308 miles, and the estimated driving time is about five hours.

Cost of Each Route

To estimate the cost of each route, we will assume that your car has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, and the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon. Remember that this is just an estimate, and the cost may vary based on your car's fuel efficiency and the current gas prices.

Route 1: Via I-57N/I-94E

The total distance for this route is approximately 193 miles. If your car uses 7.72 gallons of gas (193/25) for the trip, the estimated cost for gas will be $19.30 (7.72 x 2.50).

Route 2: Via I-39N and I-90W

The total distance for this route is approximately 255 miles. If your car uses 10.2 gallons of gas (255/25) for the trip, the estimated cost for gas will be $25.50 (10.2 x 2.50).

Route 3: Via US-45N and I-43N

The total distance for this route is approximately 308 miles. If your car uses 12.32 gallons of gas (308/25) for the trip, the estimated cost for gas will be $30.80 (12.32 x 2.50).

Best Route

Based on distance and cost, Route 1 (via I-57N/I-94E) is the best option. It is the shortest route, and it will save you time and money. However, if you prefer a more scenic drive, you can consider Route 3 (via US-45N and I-43N), but it will be more expensive and take longer.

Conclusion

A road trip from Champaign, Illinois, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, can be a fun and exciting adventure. The best route to take is Route 1, via I-57N/I-94E, which is the shortest and cheapest option. With an estimated driving time of three hours and an estimated cost of $19.30, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and attractions along the way without breaking the bank.