You and I, Chicago to Phoenix: A Tale of Two Cities (and a Whole Lotta Highway)
So, you've got the itch. The Windy City isn't windy enough anymore, you crave cacti instead of corn dogs, and suddenly that whole "deep dish pizza" thing just isn't doing it for you. Maybe it's the call of the desert sun, or perhaps a desperate bid to escape your overbearing mother-in-law (no judgment here). Whatever the reason, you're eyeballing a move from Chicago to Phoenix, AZ. But before you pack your flip-flops and sunscreen, there's one burning question: Exactly how far is this Phoenix paradise from my current deep-dish haven?
Fear not, intrepid adventurer, for I have the answer! But be warned, it's not a simple one. Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into the glorious, confusing world of mileage between major metropolises.
The Straight and Narrow (or As Straight As You Can Get Across This Country)
If you're the type who likes things clear-cut, a nice straight line on a map, then we've got your back. The as-the-crow-flies distance (because, let's face it, crows probably have better GPS than most of us) between Chicago and Phoenix is roughly 1,450 miles. That's a neat and tidy number, easy to remember, perfect for bar trivia. But hold on to your hats, folks, because this is where things get interesting...
The Detour Du Jour: Why Your Road Trip Might Be Longer Than You Think
Because guess what? Roads aren't exactly built for crows (shocking, I know). If you're planning a road trip (and let's be honest, what's a move across the country without an epic road trip?), you're looking at a more substantial journey. Depending on your chosen route, you can expect to travel anywhere between 1,745 and 1,800 miles. That's a difference of a good few hundred miles, which translates to extra gas station stops, questionable roadside diners, and potential existential meltdowns over which state has the worst rest areas (looking at you, Kansas).
Here's the thing to remember: Embrace the detour! This is your chance to see America, folks! Maybe hit up a giant roadside ball of yarn, detour through a quirky small town with a UFO museum, or visit the world's largest rocking chair (because, why not?).
So, How Many Miles Are We Talking About Again?
The short answer is: it depends. The long answer is: it depends on your tolerance for detours, your love of quirky Americana, and how badly you need to escape your mother-in-law. (We get it, trust us.)
But hey, the important thing is this: You're embarking on an adventure! So crank up the tunes, pack plenty of snacks (and maybe a barf bag for those twisty mountain roads), and get ready to conquer those miles, one kitschy roadside attraction at a time. Phoenix awaits, and the open road is calling!
