The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Alexandria, Virginia to (Old) Ottawa, Ontario

If you're planning a road trip from Alexandria, Virginia to (Old) Ottawa, Ontario, there are a variety of routes you can take, each with their respective time lengths and distances. In this blog post, we'll explore the different routes you can take, the time it takes to get there, and tips to make your road trip as smooth as possible.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The quickest way to get to Ottawa from Alexandria is to take Route 81 North and then hop on the I-90 East. This route is approximately 770 miles and takes about 12 hours, depending on traffic. However, this drive can be slow and frustrating if you hit rush hour traffic or experience detours.

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can take Route 11 North, which will take you through the beautiful hills of Pennsylvania. This route is approximately 900 miles and takes around 14 hours, depending on traffic. While it may be longer, it offers more scenic views and an opportunity to explore quaint towns along the way.

Distance and Time

If you take the Route 81 North and I-90 East route, which is the shortest option, you'll travel approximately 770 miles and it will take you approximately 12 hours driving time. During rush hour, expect this route to take significantly longer. Alternatively, if you opt for the Route 11 North route, you'll potentially travel about 900 miles and it will take about 14 hours to drive. Be sure to give yourself extra time if you plan to take pit stops along the way.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic patterns can greatly affect your travel time. For the quickest route via Route 81 North and I-90 East, driving times will generally be lower during off-peak hours and late night driving. However, peak hours may lengthen the total drive time, particularly if you get stuck in traffic jams. Check traffic reports before you depart and consider downloading a traffic app to give you real-time updates.

Conclusion

There are plenty of routes to take to get from Alexandria, Virginia to Ottawa, Ontario, each offering different advantages. Consider what you'd like to see and do along the way, and choose a route accordingly. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time for travel, and plan out pit stops to rest and explore. If you're driving with others, also consider taking shifts to avoid driving for extended periods of time. Finally, keep in mind traffic patterns and consider avoiding busy times of the day to make the drive as smooth and enjoyable as possible.