Driving Cost from Chesterton, Indiana to Chicago, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Chesterton, Indiana and Chicago, Illinois

Road trips can be a great way to explore new places and enjoy the freedom of the open road. If you're planning a trip between Chesterton, Indiana, and Chicago, Illinois, it's important to consider the cost of the journey. One of the major factors that contribute to the overall cost is the price of gas. In this article, we will explore the different routes you can take between these two destinations, highlighting the distance and cost of each one. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the most cost-effective route for your trip.

Routes and Costs

Route 1: Via I-94 W

This is the most direct route between Chesterton and Chicago. It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive the 47.6 miles. However, the proximity to tollways on this route increases the cost. With the current gas prices of $2.50 per gallon, a vehicle that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon would require around 2 gallons of gas for this journey. Thus, the estimated cost of this route would be $5.

Route 2: Via US-12 W and US-20 W

If you prefer a more scenic drive, this route is an excellent choice. Although it is slightly longer, spanning around 52 miles, it offers beautiful views of the Indiana and Illinois countryside. The estimated travel time is also around 45 minutes. The cost of gas for this journey would be similar to the first route, at approximately $5.

Route 3: Via I-65 S and I-90 W

For those who want to avoid tollways, this route provides an alternative. Although a bit longer, spanning approximately 56 miles, it allows drivers to save money on tolls. The estimated travel time for this route is around 55 minutes. The cost of gas would be the same as the previous routes, averaging around $5.

Route 4: Via IN-49 S and US-41 S

This route is a slightly longer option, covering approximately 61 miles. However, it offers an opportunity to explore more of the scenic rural areas between Chesterton and Chicago. The estimated travel time for this route is around 1 hour. Similar to the previous routes, the cost of gas would be around $5.

Among the different routes, the most cost-effective option is undoubtedly Route 2, via US-12 W and US-20 W. Although it is slightly longer than Route 1, the scenery along the way makes it a worthwhile choice. Furthermore, the cost of gas is the same for all routes, so the deciding factor should be the overall travel experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip between Chesterton, Indiana, and Chicago, Illinois, it is essential to consider the cost of the journey, which is greatly influenced by gas prices. We explored four different routes, each offering its own pros and cons. However, based on the current gas prices, Route 2 via US-12 W and US-20 W emerges as the most cost-effective option. The estimated cost of the trip, regardless of the route, remains approximately $5. After a scenic and enjoyable drive, lasting around 45 minutes, you will find yourself in the vibrant city of Chicago, ready to explore all that it has to offer.