The Road Trip from Alexandria, Virginia to Columbia, South Carolina

Are you planning a road trip from Alexandria, Virginia to Columbia, South Carolina? Well, buckle up for an exciting adventure filled with adrenaline-pumping moments and spectacular scenery. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is how long it takes to drive there. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

There are two primary routes you can take on your road trip from Alexandria, Virginia to Columbia, South Carolina. The first is the fastest and the second is the slowest.

The fastest route is through I-85 S and I-95 S. This route takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes to complete. However, the fastest route comes with its downside, as it’s typically the busiest time on the road, and traffic congestion is the norm, especially during peak hours. Thus, it is essential to specify the time of the day you’re embarking on your journey.

On the other hand, if you prefer a slow-paced and scenic route, a coastal drive via US-17 S is highly recommended. The route takes you from the Chesapeake Bay to the Atlantic Ocean through some of the most beautiful and historic towns. But, brace yourself, as it takes about 12 hours to drive, which is much longer than the usual travel time.

The Distance and Time Estimates

The distance between Alexandria, Virginia, and Columbia, South Carolina, spans roughly 490 miles, covering different cities and states. The time it takes to complete the journey depends on the route you take and traffic congestion levels.

During peak traffic times, it takes an average of 8 hours and 30 minutes to complete the journey through I-85 S and I-95 S. On the other hand, the trip takes about 11 hours and 30 minutes to complete through US-17 S during the same period.

However, driving through US-17 S takes a shorter time of about 10 hours during off-peak hours. In contrast, the I-85 S and I-95 S route take approximately seven hours, which translates to approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes less than the regular travel time, given there’s no major traffic congestion.

Final Thoughts

When planning a road trip, it’s crucial to consider multiple aspects, such as distance, time, and the highlight of your journey. Both the I-85 S and I-95 S route and the US-17 S route have unique scenery that you will appreciate as you drive past. The I-85 S and I-95 route save you time, while the US-17 S route takes you on a slow-paced and scenic route.

Therefore, choose the route that best suits you, based on your interests, schedule, and preferred time to travel. Don’t forget to carry a GPS tracker, so you don’t lose your way. Ultimately, regardless of which route you take, be prepared to have an exciting and memorable road trip to Columbia, South Carolina.