Chicago to Detroit is the most-driven Midwest corridor — about 280 miles east on I-94 through Indiana and across Michigan. The highway passes through Gary, Kalamazoo, and Ann Arbor before reaching Detroit.
Ann Arbor, home of the University of Michigan, makes an excellent stop and is only 45 minutes west of Detroit — giving the route a genuine cultural waypoint.
Stops Along the Way
Michigan's craft beer capital with over 60 breweries — Bell's Brewery is the flagship, and a genuine stop for beer enthusiasts.
One of America's most vibrant college towns, with excellent restaurants, independent bookstores, and the University of Michigan campus and museums.
Tips for This Trip
Ann Arbor is worth 2 hours
The Zingerman's Deli and the University of Michigan campus alone make Ann Arbor a justified stop — the food scene is exceptional for a city its size.
Gary, Indiana rush-hour is the main bottleneck
I-94 through Gary and into Michigan slows badly on weekday mornings and evenings. Leave Chicago before 7am or after 8pm.
Michigan gas prices are often higher than Illinois
Fill up before crossing the state line — Michigan fuel prices typically run a few cents higher.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Detroit is about 240 miles (386 km) from Chicago in a straight line, and approximately 280 miles (450 km) by road via Interstate 94 east through Indiana and Michigan.