Driving Time between Akron, Pennsylvania and Columbus, Ohio

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Road Trippin’: Time It Takes To Drive From Akron, Pennsylvania to Columbus, Ohio

Are you planning a weekend getaway from Akron, Pennsylvania to Columbus, Ohio? Whether you’re visiting friends, catching a game, or simply exploring the neighboring state, it’s important to know how long you can expect to be on the road.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

There are two main routes you can take when driving from Akron to Columbus: you can either take the Ohio Turnpike (I-76 W and I-80 W) or take a shorter, more scenic route through Amish country (US-30 W and OH-39 W).

If you’re in a hurry and don’t mind paying tolls, the Ohio Turnpike is the fastest route and covers a distance of about 153 miles. The average travel time on this route is approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes, but can vary depending on traffic. During peak hours, you can expect to spend an additional 20-30 minutes on the road.

On the other hand, if you want to avoid tolls and enjoy the sights along the way, the Amish country route is a great option. While this route is shorter (approximately 137 miles), it takes longer to drive due to slower speed limits. The average travel time on this route is approximately 3 hours, but you could spend more time on the road during rush hour traffic.

Traffic and Drive Time

The time it takes to drive from Akron to Columbus can vary greatly depending on the traffic patterns. Rush hour traffic on weekdays and Sundays can add anywhere from 20-45 minutes to your drive time. On the other hand, if you decide to make the trip during off-peak hours, such as on a weekday evening or early Saturday morning, you’ll likely shave off some time from your journey.

Here’s a breakdown of estimated drive times:

  • Ohio Turnpike (I-76 W and I-80 W)
    • Best-case scenario: 2 hours and 36 minutes
    • Worst-case scenario: 3 hours and 15 minutes
  • Amish Country Route (US-30 W and OH-39 W)
    • Best-case scenario: 2 hours and 45 minutes
    • Worst-case scenario: 3 hours and 30 minutes

Conclusion

Whether you take the Ohio Turnpike or the scenic Amish country route, it’s helpful to know how long you can expect to be on the road. By accounting for traffic patterns and planning accordingly, you can make the most of your road trip and arrive at your destination stress-free. We recommend taking the Amish country route for a more leisurely drive, but if you’re in a hurry, the Ohio Turnpike is the quickest option. Safe travels!