How Long Does It Take to Drive From Ottawa, Ontario to Houston, Texas?

If you're planning a road trip from Ottawa, Ontario to Houston, Texas, you're in for quite an adventure! With a distance of over 2,700 miles, it's definitely a long drive, but there are a few different route options that can affect your travel time.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Ottawa to Houston will take you south through Detroit and Toledo before heading west toward St. Louis and then south to Houston. This route covers a total of 2,726 miles and takes an estimated 43 hours of driving time.

If you're driving straight through without any breaks, you could potentially make this journey in just under two days. However, it's more realistic to plan for at least three days of driving with a few stops for rest and sightseeing along the way.

Keep in mind that traffic patterns can significantly impact your travel time, especially in major cities like St. Louis and Houston. Driving at peak traffic times will likely add extra hours to your journey, so plan accordingly.

The Scenic Route

If you have a little more time to spare and want to enjoy some beautiful sights along the way, consider taking a more scenic route from Ottawa to Houston. One option is to head south through Niagara Falls and then cut across through the Appalachian Mountains to Nashville before heading south to Houston.

This route adds several hundred miles to your journey, with a total distance of around 3,200 miles. However, it also offers stunning views of the Great Lakes, charming small towns, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Expect to add at least a day or two to your journey if you opt for the scenic route. However, the extra time and miles are well worth the experience.

The Slowest Route

Finally, if you're not in a rush and want to enjoy a leisurely road trip, consider taking a meandering route through the southern United States. Starting in Ottawa, you could head south through the Midwest before picking up the famous Route 66 and following it all the way to Texas.

This route is the longest and slowest option, with a total distance of around 3,500 miles and an estimated 55 hours of driving time. However, it also offers an authentic slice of Americana, with countless roadside attractions, quirky small towns, and historic landmarks to explore.

Of course, driving such a long distance involves some planning, particularly when it comes to packing and taking care of your car. However, when you take time to plan and choose the right route for you, the road trip from Ottawa to Houston can be an unforgettable adventure.