I will be flying into Chicago Midway and driving to Iowa City. One website recommended taking Route 80 and another Route 88. Since both of them, kind of merge, around Davenport, does it make any difference which one to take?
Thanks.
Bob
Driving from Chicago (MDW) to Iowa City
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Part of I-88 is a toll road, and has much less traffic than I-80, which has lots of trucks.
The part of I-80 you are dealing with is not as bad as the I-80 east of Chicago. Even so, the trucks are numerous, and there are pile ups and/or back ups on occasion around Joliet. I think I took 88 once out to DeKalb and it is nothing like I-80- you can actually "see" directional signs in a sedan.
From Midway, I'm not sure what the access is to I-88- that may make a difference.
From Midway, you would take Cicero Ave, to I-290 West, which ends up turning into 88.
You'll pays tolls at Oakbrook, Aurora, DeKalb & Dixon, after Dixon I don't know how many tolls. Depending on the time of day, traffic will be heavy once you get on I-290, but should lighten up quite a bit by the time you get to OakBrook & should be smooth sailing from there.
Correct if I'm wrong but aren't the tolls a tad bit higher than say on 294?
It's been awhile since I drove 88 (in fact might have been the other number (5?) at the time) and was surprised at the difference.
Tolls vary, Oakbrook & Aurora are 40 cents, to get off at DeKalb is 40 cents, but to continue west is more.
Here is detailed info:
http://www.illinoistollway.com/portal/page?_pageid=53,35497,53_35524&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
Be aware that there is construction on I88 between Oak Brook and Aurora. During off-peak times it is not too bad, but expect delays if you happen to be driving through there during rush hour -- particularly evening rush (westbound).
When you get to the construction area around Naperville...stay in the left lane, it's the "express lane" during construction.
The toll on I-88 at Dekalb and Dixon is $.95.
If you do take I-88, I'd take I-55 south to I-355 north to I-88 instead of Cicero up to I-290 (what a nightmare)
The southern route (I-80) may be your best bet. Yes there can be alot of truckers but it's not too bad and you avoid the toll(s), have more options for stops if needed and depending on the day you avoid the "city" traffic after you get past Joliet.
I had a son at Western IL University and took this trip several times using both roads. It doesn't matter.
Take one to Iowa City and the other one back to Chicago just for the variety. In either case I agree with the advice to take I-55 to 355 vs. the 290 option. The 290/355/53 intersection is confusing to a first timer.