So, You Wanna Brave the Skyway? Buckle Up (and Be Prepared to Pony Up)
Let's face it, Chicago traffic is enough to make even the most patient driver develop a twitch. But hey, sometimes you gotta take the scenic route (well, maybe not that scenic, but definitely the most direct) – I'm talkin' about the Chicago Skyway. Breathtaking views of industrial smokestacks? Check. Hair-raising reminder of your dwindling bank account? Absolutely.
But before you zoom off towards that not-so-distant horizon, a crucial question arises: How much is that darn Skyway toll gonna cost me?
IPass to the Rescue (Maybe)
If you're a savvy tollway traveler, you probably have an IPass transponder – that little lifesaver that whisks you through toll booths without the fumble for cash (or the sinking feeling of realizing you only have a twenty). The good news is, the Skyway accepts IPass!
The not-so-great news is, buckle up buttercup, because as of January 2024, a trip on the Skyway will set you back a cool $7.20. Yep, you read that right. That's a price bump from the previous $6.60. Progress! (Although, your wallet might argue otherwise).
Peak Hours? More Like Peak Prices, my Friend
Here's the kicker: That $7.20 applies to both peak and off-peak hours. No more strategic tollbooth timing to save a buck. The Skyway operates on a "what you see is what you pay" system, so you can just zip on through whenever you like.
Cash is King (But Not Really on the Skyway)
While IPass is your best bet, you can still use old-fashioned cash or credit cards at the tollbooth. Just be prepared to wait in line with all the other folks who forgot about the IPass revolution. Plus, there's no guarantee you won't get hit with a little extra service fee for not using the electronic payment system.
The Final Tally: Is it Worth the Skyway Life?
So, is the Skyway worth the $7.20 toll? Well, that depends. If you're stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on I-90 and need a quick escape, then absolutely. If you're a penny-pincher on a long road trip, maybe consider the alternative route (just be prepared for some extra time on the road).
Ultimately, the decision is yours. But hey, at least you now know exactly how much to budget for your Skyway adventure. Just remember, sometimes the best things in life come with a toll.
