Detroit to Waukegan: Road Trip Guide & Distance

245.1 miles 394.4 km · straight line
321.5 miles actual route 517.4 km · driving distance
6h 10min estimated drive time
$31 - $38 estimated fuel cost
~1h 0min flight time
272° W bearing direction

How far is Detroit from Waukegan?

The distance from Detroit to Waukegan is 245.1 miles (394.4 km) as the crow flies. Waukegan is located W of Detroit. By car, the driving distance is approximately 321.5 miles, taking about 6h 10min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 0min. Both are located in United States — Detroit in Michigan and Waukegan 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 Detroit and Waukegan. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Detroit to Waukegan

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 6h 10min $31 - $38 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 0min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~7h 24min $26–$48* Budget
Train ~5h 52min $39–$113* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Detroit & Waukegan

Quick Facts

Detroit
42.33°N, 83.05°W
America/Detroit
183m elevation
Waukegan
42.36°N, 87.84°W
America/Chicago
199m elevation
Explore more routes from Waukegan

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 82 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 20 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 101.6 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM