The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Ottawa, Ontario to Cambridge, Massachusetts

Are you planning a road trip from Ottawa, Ontario to Cambridge, Massachusetts? Whether it's for a vacation or a business trip, the distance between the two cities can be covered in approximately 7 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. In this post, we'll be discussing the different routes you can take and how long it will take you to reach your destination.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

The most direct route from Ottawa to Cambridge is via Highway 416 South, which connects to Highway 401 East towards Toronto. From there, you can take Highway 81 South in New York and then Interstate 84 East, which will take you to Cambridge. This route spans a total of 767 kilometers and can take approximately 7 hours to complete without traffic.

Another option is to take Highway 417 East in Ottawa, which will connect to Highway 401 East towards Toronto. However, instead of taking Highway 81, you can continue straight on to Highway 401 East towards Montreal and then take Interstate 87 South towards Albany, NY. From Albany, you can take Interstate 90 East all the way to Cambridge. While this adds an additional 150 kilometers to your drive, it can take less time due to better traffic conditions.

Distance and Time-Based on Traffic Patterns

The distance between Ottawa and Cambridge via Highway 416 is approximately 767 kilometers, and this route usually takes around 7 hours to complete without traffic. However, during peak traffic hours or during rush hour, this route can take up to 8.5 hours or more.

Taking Highways 417 and 401 to Albany, New York, is a longer drive of approximately 917 kilometers. However, this route can be faster during peak traffic with a travel time of around 7 hours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the time it takes to drive from Ottawa, Ontario to Cambridge, Massachusetts varies based on the route and traffic conditions. For a shorter drive, take Highway 416 to Interstate 84, and for a faster drive, take Highways 417 and 401 to Interstate 90. Both routes will take around 7 hours to complete without traffic. However, keep in mind peak traffic times and plan accordingly to avoid delays. So, buckle up, enjoy the ride, and have a safe trip!