What to Expect When Driving from Arbutus, Maryland to Arlington, Virginia

If you are planning a trip that will take you from Arbutus, Maryland to Arlington, Virginia, then you might be wondering about the best routes to take and how long the journey will take. Fortunately, figuring out the best route and the time it may take involves a few key factors that you can keep in mind and plan around ahead of time.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route to drive from Arbutus to Arlington is along the I-95 S and I-495 W. Starting at Arbutus, you will merge onto I-95 S towards Washington, D.C. for around 30 miles. The total driving distance from Arbutus to Arlington is approximately 50 miles. This route takes roughly one hour or more depending on the traffic and any accidents that may occur on the road. You can save some time on your trip if you avoid rush hours though.

The Scenic Route

For those that want to take a scenic route from Arbutus to Arlington, you can consider driving along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Starting from Arbutus, the distance will be around 55 miles with this route. However, the George Washington Memorial Parkway is a national parkway that runs alongside the Potomac River and provides breathtaking views. The downside to this route is that it may take longer than an hour, especially during peak traffic times.

The Slowest Route

If you're a person who enjoys a leisurely drive, then you might prefer taking the slowest route, which goes through several local roads. This route makes your trip longer but can be a delightful way to explore the region. Starting at Arbutus, you will need to pass through Patapsco Valley State Park before continuing on to Powder Mill Road, and finally, follow the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The driving distance here is around 60 miles. The time taken to drive through this route may vary depending on traffic, but you should plan for at least an hour and a half.

Traffic Time

Most of these routes will take an hour provided there is no traffic. But traffic is always a wildcard, as there can be unexpected delays and slow-downs. If you plan your trip carefully by checking traffic reports ahead of time or using GPS apps, you can avoid wasting too much time in traffic. Driving during non-peak hours can also help you avoid slowdowns altogether.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there are many routes you can take when driving from Arbutus to Arlington, and each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Whether you want to take the scenic route or go for the shortest drive time, it's important to plan ahead and be aware of any possible delays. Make sure you're prepared for any eventuality, so you can ensure the best possible trip for you and your loved ones. Safe travels!