Lake George
Lake George
Chicago
Chicago
Driving

Lake George to Chicago

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Lake George to Chicago is approximately 850 miles. You will travel south on I-87 S and then west on I-90 W to reach Illinois. The journey takes about 13 hours. This route takes you through the scenic landscapes of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana.

Total Distance: 1370 km driving distance; 1100 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method, taking 13 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective and practical way to travel.
Compare Lake George to Chicago Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
13 hours
Avg Price
150-250 USD
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
I-87 S to I-90 W.

Expect heavy traffic near major cities.

Travel Tips
  • Traffic
    Traffic near major cities can be very heavy; plan accordingly.
  • Parking
    Use parking garages in the downtown area to avoid street parking issues.
  • Navigation
    Use GPS to navigate the city's streets.
  • Food
    Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza; try the local restaurants.
  • Weather
    Be prepared for cold winters and hot, humid summers.
Safety Tips
  • General Safety
    Stay in well-lit areas when exploring at night.
  • Driving
    Be cautious of merging traffic on I-90.
  • Emergency
    Know the location of the nearest hospital in the city.
  • Vehicle
    Ensure your car is in good condition for the highway drive.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train?
    No direct train service exists between Lake George and Chicago.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive takes about 13 hours.
  • Are there tolls?
    Yes, there are tolls on the New York State Thruway and other regional highways.
  • What is the best route?
    I-87 to I-90 is the most efficient route.
  • Is Chicago a good place to visit?
    Yes, it has a rich history and many cultural attractions.
Quick Info
  • From Lake George, New York, United States
  • To Chicago, Illinois, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Spring or autumn for mild weather.

Things to Do in Chicago
1
Art Institute of Chicago
Visit this world-class museum to see a diverse collection of art.
2
Millennium Park
Explore this beautiful park with its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture.
3
Willis Tower
Take a ride to the top of this skyscraper for a great view of the city.
4
Navy Pier
Visit this popular waterfront area with its shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Tags
Lake George to Chicago driving to Chicago New York to Illinois travel I-90 W Chicago travel guide Midwest road trip fastest way to Chicago traveling from Adirondacks