New York to Chicago is a long haul — about 790 miles by the fastest route, requiring at least 12 hours of driving. Most travelers fly the 2.5-hour route, but the drive through Pennsylvania and Ohio can be rewarding if time allows.
The most popular driving routes go via I-78/I-76 through Pennsylvania (the turnpike) or I-80 across northern Pennsylvania and Ohio. The latter is slightly slower but passes closer to Cleveland if you want to break the journey.
Stops Along the Way
A dramatically revitalised city — the "Steel City" has great food, architecture, and views from its bridge-crossing river valleys. Perfect overnight stop.
Worth a stop for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on the shores of Lake Erie, with excellent dining in the Ohio City neighbourhood.
A convenient rest stop on I-80/90, about 3 hours from Chicago.
Tips for This Trip
Flying is almost always the right call
The New York–Chicago air corridor is one of the busiest and most competitive in the US — flights regularly cost $50–100 one-way and take under 3 hours.
If you drive, split it across two days
Pittsburgh makes a logical overnight stop about halfway. The city deserves more than a gas stop.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike has good rest stops
The PA Turnpike is well-maintained with full-service food stops — better than average for a long interstate drive.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Chicago is about 710 miles (1,140 km) from New York in a straight line, and roughly 790 miles (1,270 km) by road via Interstate 76 and Interstate 80 through Pennsylvania and Ohio.