How Long Does It Take to Drive from Alexandria, Virginia to Mount Airy, Maryland?

As someone who's driven from Alexandria, Virginia to Mount Airy, Maryland before, I know firsthand that it can be a bit of a confusing and overwhelming trip. There are a few different routes you can take, and the travel time can vary depending on traffic. But don't worry - in this blog post, I'll break down the different routes and travel times to help make your journey a little smoother.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking to get to Mount Airy as quickly as possible, the fastest route is probably via I-495 and I-270. This route is approximately 48 miles and should take you around 50 minutes in good traffic conditions. During peak traffic times, however, it can take closer to an hour, or even longer if there are accidents or construction on the road. Keep in mind that this route involves tolls, so factor that into your travel time and budget.

The Scenic Route

If you have a little more time on your hands and want to enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way, consider taking the more scenic route, which involves a drive through Seneca Creek State Park. This route is approximately 60 miles and should take you around an hour and 15 minutes in good traffic conditions. However, it's worth noting that this route can be slower during peak traffic times, as there are some winding roads and potential traffic congestion through the park.

The Slowest Route

Finally, if you're not in any hurry and want to take your time getting to Mount Airy, consider taking Route 355 (also known as Frederick Road). This route is approximately 42 miles and should take you around an hour and a half in good traffic conditions. However, this route can be even slower during peak traffic times, as it goes through many small towns and can have heavy traffic congestion.

Regardless of which route you take, it's important to keep in mind that traffic patterns can always change without warning. Be sure to check traffic updates and plan accordingly to make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible.