The Long Drive: From Ames, Iowa to Waterbury, Connecticut

Are you planning a road trip from Ames, Iowa to Waterbury, Connecticut? This drive will take you through the heart of America, past rolling hills and through quaint towns. But before you hit the open road, it's important to know how much time to set aside for your trip. Here, we'll break down the fastest and slowest routes, and estimate the time it takes to drive to Waterbury.

Fastest Route

The fastest route from Ames, Iowa to Waterbury, Connecticut takes you through Chicago and heads east along the I-80 before joining the I-81 and eventually the I-84. In total, this route covers a distance of approximately 1,150 miles, and should take around 18 hours to complete in good traffic conditions.

However, it’s essential to note that traffic jams, car crashes, and road construction can be quite common and they can quickly add extra hours to your driving time. In addition, be on the watch for toll booths in Northeastern states as they could have an impact on the drive time.

Scenic Route

Do you have some extra days to spare? If the answer is yes, you might want to opt for a more scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains and coastlines of Washington, D.C. In this route, you’ll head east through Indiana on the I-74 and I-77, passing plenty of beauty and exploring the rich history of America. From there, you’ll hit Washington, D.C. and finally end up in Connecticut.

However, this route covers roughly 1,535 miles, which would take around 25 hours to complete. That being said, the scenic views and historic landmarks along the way make it worth the extra time.

Time of Day

Traffic can significantly influence how long it takes for you to get to your destination. During peak holiday seasons and morning and evening rush hours, expect traffic to be heavy near cities, particularly Chicago and New York City. On average, divers usually cover about 60-70 miles per hour on highways, meaning that driving from Ames, Iowa to Waterbury, Connecticut should take around 15-18 hours. But it’s always good to allow for extra time, just in case!

Final Thoughts

Whatever your preferences are, choose the driving route that works best for you so that you can enjoy your road trip to the fullest. It's essential to plan accordingly in terms of time, especially if you have reservations or tickets scheduled at specific attractions or sights. Safe travels, and don't forget to take photos along the way!