Major Highways & Driving Tips in Chicago, Illinois, United States
1. I-90/I-94 Dan Ryan Expressway
Main east-west artery in Chicago, connecting I-290 and I-94. Known for heavy traffic congestion during rush hours.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Avoid traveling during peak times to save time
- Toll Road: Expect tolls when using this expressway
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
2. I-290 Kennedy Expressway
Primary north-south expressway in Chicago, known for its length and heavy traffic. Connects O'Hare International Airport with downtown.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Avoid traveling during peak times to save time
- Toll Road: Expect tolls when using this expressway
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
3. I-55 Stevenson Expressway
East-west expressway connecting I-294 and I-94, offering an alternative route to downtown Chicago.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Avoid traveling during peak times to save time
- Toll Road: Expect tolls when using this expressway
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
4. I-294 Tri-State Tollway
Circumferential highway encircling Chicago, connecting various major highways. Known for its toll charges.
- Toll Road: Expect multiple tolls when using this route
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Lengthy Journey: Plan for extra time when using this expressway, as it can take longer than other routes
5. I-90/80 Northwest Tollway
Expressway connecting Chicago with the northern suburbs and Rockford, charging tolls along its route.
- Toll Road: Expect multiple tolls when using this route
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Long Distance Travel: Plan for a longer journey when using this expressway
6. I-57/I-80 Southwest Tollway
Expressway connecting Chicago with the southern suburbs and Indiana, charging tolls along its route.
- Toll Road: Expect multiple tolls when using this route
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Long Distance Travel: Plan for a longer journey when using this expressway
7. I-290 East-West Tollway
East-west toll road connecting O'Hare International Airport with downtown Chicago and the western suburbs.
- Toll Road: Expect multiple tolls when using this route
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Rush Hour Congestion: Avoid traveling during peak times to save time
8. I-291 Congress Parkway
A limited-access highway providing a bypass for downtown Chicago's congested streets.
- Toll Road: Expect tolls when using this expressway
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Alternative Route: A useful alternative to congested downtown streets during rush hour
9. I-190 Tri-State Tollway North Extension
Extension of the I-294 Tri-State Tollway connecting downtown Chicago with the northwest suburbs.
- Toll Road: Expect multiple tolls when using this route
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Lengthy Journey: Plan for extra time when using this expressway, as it can take longer than other routes
10. I-355 Naperville-Oswego Tollway
Expressway connecting Naperville and Oswego, providing an alternative route for traffic between I-88 and I-55.
- Toll Road: Expect tolls when using this expressway
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Alternative Route: A useful alternative to congested I-88 and I-55 during rush hour
11. I-390 Edens Expressway
East-west expressway providing a bypass for downtown Evanston and Skokie, offering an alternative to congested routes.
- Toll Road: Expect tolls when using this expressway
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Alternative Route: A useful alternative to congested routes during rush hour
12. Chicago Skyway
Toll bridge connecting downtown Chicago with the south suburbs and Indiana. Offers a quicker route to avoid congested streets.
- Toll Road: Expect tolls when using this bridge
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Alternative Route: A useful alternative to congested streets during rush hour
13. Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (I-90)
Westbound toll road connecting downtown Chicago with Rockford and the western suburbs.
- Toll Road: Expect multiple tolls when using this route
- Construction Zones: Be aware of ongoing construction projects that may cause lane closures or delays
- Long Distance Travel: Plan for a longer journey when using this expressway
14. Chicago's Grid System
The city's unique grid system helps drivers navigate easily within the downtown area.
- Easy Navigation: Easily find your way around the downtown area using this grid system
- Rush Hour Congestion: Avoid traveling during peak times to save time
- One-Way Streets: Be aware of one-way streets in the downtown area
15. Chicago's Parking Meters
Known for their controversial pricing and frequent fines, parking meters are an essential part of navigating the city.
- Parking Fees: Be prepared to pay for parking in most areas of the city
- Limited Spaces: Find street parking at your own risk, as spaces are often limited
- Meter Enforcement: Be aware of strict meter enforcement to avoid fines