Road Trip: How Long It Takes to Drive from Aiken, SC to Riverdale, GA?

Looking for a quick weekend getaway from Aiken, South Carolina? Why not head to Riverdale, Georgia? This Atlanta suburb is just a four-hour drive away, and it's home to a variety of attractions, from state parks to outlet malls. But before you pack up the car, let's take a look at the different routes you can take and how long each one will take based on traffic patterns.

Fastest Route: I-20 E

The fastest way to get from Aiken to Riverdale is to take I-20 East for the entire 214-mile trip. This route should take about three hours and 15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, if you hit Atlanta traffic during rush hour, expect to add an extra hour or two to your journey. On the bright side, the scenery along I-20 is pleasantly rural, so even if you're stuck in traffic, you can still enjoy the view.

Slowest Route: US-278 E

If you're not in a hurry, or if you just want to take the scenic route, US-278 East is a good choice. This 241-mile route will take you through rural South Carolina and Georgia, with plenty of small towns and scenic views along the way. The downside is that this route often experiences heavy truck traffic, which can slow you down. On average, you can expect to spend about four hours and 30 minutes on the road.

Best of Both Worlds: I-20 E to I-285 S to I-75 S

For a balance of speed and scenery, take I-20 to I-285 South to I-75 South. This 234-mile route will take you through the outskirts of Atlanta and past some beautiful parks, lakes, and historic sites. It's also a good option if you want to avoid downtown Atlanta altogether. On a good day, you can complete this trip in about three hours and 45 minutes. But if you hit Atlanta's notorious traffic, you might be on the road for five hours or more.

Final Thoughts

To make the most of your road trip, we recommend hitting the road early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid Atlanta's rush hour traffic. Be sure to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment to keep everyone happy on the drive. And don't forget to fill up your gas tank before you hit the road – gas stations on I-20 and US-278 can be few and far between.

With a little planning and a lot of enthusiasm, a road trip from Aiken, South Carolina to Riverdale, Georgia can be a fun and memorable adventure. Which route will you take?