Ann Arbor to Des Plaines: Road Trip Guide & Distance

212.8 miles 342.5 km · straight line
266 miles estimated 428.1 km · driving distance
5h 21min estimated drive time
$26 - $32 estimated fuel cost
~56min flight time
267° W bearing direction

How far is Ann Arbor from Des Plaines?

The distance from Ann Arbor to Des Plaines is 212.8 miles (342.5 km) as the crow flies. Des Plaines is located W of Ann Arbor. By car, the driving distance is approximately 266 miles, taking about 5h 21min. A direct flight would take roughly 56min. Both are located in United States — Ann Arbor in Michigan and Des Plaines in Illinois.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for Ann Arbor and Des Plaines. The driving distance is estimated from straight-line distance with a road-factor model, so confirm the route in your navigation app. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Ann Arbor to Des Plaines

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 21min $26 - $32 Flexible stops
Fly ~56min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 25min $21–$40* Budget
Train ~5h 5min $32–$93* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Ann Arbor & Des Plaines

Quick Facts

Ann Arbor
42.28°N, 83.74°W
America/Detroit
269m elevation
Des Plaines
42.03°N, 87.88°W
America/Chicago
193m elevation
Explore more routes from Des Plaines

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 71 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 18 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 117 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients