Driving Time between (Old) Ottawa, Ontario and City of Albany, New York

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Road Trip to Albany: A Journey Across Borders

Itching for a new adventure? Take a road trip from Ottawa to Albany for an unforgettable experience! This journey is full of scenic routes and beautiful destinations all the way through. But, before you hit the road, it’s important to know how long the drive will take, right? With that in mind, let’s see what the fastest and slowest routes are, and how long it takes to drive from old Ottawa to the City of Albany in New York.

Fastest vs. Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Ottawa to Albany is via Interstate 81 S. This is the quickest way to get to the City of Albany, with a driving distance of around 390 miles and takes approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes. The route takes you through the scenic Thousand Islands and along Lake Ontario before reaching Syracuse, and then heads southeast through the Adirondack Mountains before finally reaching Albany.

On the other hand, you can take other more scenic routes that take longer to drive but offer a more relaxed pace and stunning views. For example, a route through Upper Canada Village and the New York State Route 37 takes you through the beautiful countryside of the Saint Lawrence River and Lake Champlain, then south to Lake George and Saratoga Springs finally reaching Albany. This route has a driving distance of around 465 miles and takes over 7 hours.

Driving Time Based on Traffic Patterns

The average driving time from Ottawa to Albany taking the fastest route is approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes, but times can vary depending on traffic patterns. You’ll need to plan ahead if you’re going during rush hour or a peak travel season. For instance, rush hour traffic in Syracuse, New York City, and the destination itself could significantly increase your travel time by up to 45 minutes during peak hours.

For a more relaxed journey, time your trip off-peak season. You can cut down your driving time by traveling on a weekday or early in the morning. Driving early in the morning or late at night can help you skip the usual traffic jams in major cities, but you should only do so if you feel comfortable driving at these times.

Route Suggestions and Estimated Drive Time

There are numerous spectacular routes to take from Ottawa to Albany, such as the famous Great Lakes Circle Tour route or the New York State Route 12. But before you set out, consider the estimated drive time and distance of each route. Here are some popular routes and estimated driving times:

  • I-81 S Route - Around 6 hours and 45 minutes (390 miles).
  • Upper Canada Village and the New York State Route 37 - Over 7 hours (465 miles)
  • Great Lakes Circle Tour Route - Approximately 9 hours (625 miles)
  • New York State Route 12 - Approximately 10 hours (500 miles)

In conclusion, there are several ways to get from Ottawa to Albany and each route provides a different driving experience. Whether you’re looking for speedy travel or a more scenic route, there’s an option for everyone. But remember to plan ahead, consider traffic patterns, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!