Driving Cost from Danville, Illinois to Fort Walton Beach, Florida

A picture depicting a gas pump

Road Trip Budget: Driving from Danville, Illinois to Fort Walton Beach, Florida Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Danville, Illinois to Fort Walton Beach, Florida? You're in for an adventure! This charming journey takes you from the heart of the Midwest to the stunning shores of the Gulf Coast. However, before you hit the road, let's break down the costs, so you can plan your getaway without any surprises.

Route 1: The Scenic Route via I-65 S

The first route we’ll explore is the scenic journey along I-65 S. It’s a popular choice for many travelers heading towards Florida.

  • Distance: Approximately 600 miles
  • Estimated Time: Roughly 9 hours
  • Gas Prices: As of October 2023, average gas prices hover around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 24 gallons of gas.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Gas Cost: 24 gallons x $3.50 = $84
  • Tolls: The route does not include major tolls, so you can keep that money for beach snacks instead!

Total estimated cost for this route is $84. Traveling this route offers beautiful views along the way and is perfect for making stops at quaint Southern towns.

Route 2: The Fast Track via I-57 S and I-10 E

If time is of the essence and you want to get to Fort Walton Beach quickly, this route is a great option!

  • Distance: About 575 miles
  • Estimated Time: Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes
  • Gas Prices: Again, you’ll find gas at around $3.50 per gallon. For this trip, you’ll need about 23 gallons of gas.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Gas Cost: 23 gallons x $3.50 = $80.50
  • Tolls: While there are some minor tolls in certain areas, to keep it simple, let’s estimate $10 for any potential tolls on this path.

Total estimated cost for this fast-paced route is $90.50. If you’re cruising down I-10 E, you might find some great roadside diners along the way, turning your quick trip into a delightful culinary experience!

Route 3: The Coastal Drive via US-231 S

For those who enjoy a leisurely drive with cool coastal breezes, route your way down US-231 S.

  • Distance: About 610 miles
  • Estimated Time: Roughly 10 hours
  • Gas Prices: Sticking with the average of $3.50 per gallon, you’ll again need about 25 gallons of gas.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Gas Cost: 25 gallons x $3.50 = $87.50
  • Tolls: This route includes about $5 in tolls, keeping it affordable.

Total estimated cost for this coastal adventure is $92.50. The journey is longer, but you'll be treated to beautiful landscapes, especially as you get closer to the coast.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the cost of driving from Danville, Illinois to Fort Walton Beach, Florida can vary based on your chosen route. While the scenic route via I-65 S is the most budget-friendly at $84, the fast track via I-57 and I-10 offers a blend of speed and convenience for $90.50. Meanwhile, the coastal drive takes you on a longer journey for $92.50, delivering stunning views and a relaxed vibe.

Whichever path you choose, make sure to pack your favorite snacks, choose some awesome playlists, and get ready for an exciting journey to the beautiful beaches of Florida! Safe travels!