The Time it Takes to Drive from Arlington, VA to Bethesda, MD

Are you planning a road trip from Arlington, Virginia to Bethesda, Maryland and wondering how long it will take you to get there? Well, look no further!

Fastest and Slowest Routes:

The fastest route to get from Arlington to Bethesda is via I-495 N and it takes roughly 25 minutes to cover the 12.4 miles between the two cities. The speed limit on this route is 55 mph and you will encounter moderate traffic during peak hours. However, if you want to avoid the traffic, you can opt for the longer route via GW Memorial Parkway and I-495 W. This route is 15.5 miles long and it takes around 30 minutes to reach your destination. The speed limit on this route is 60 mph and it can save you some time during rush hour.

Traffic Patterns:

Peak traffic hours on weekdays are from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. If you are planning to drive during these times, expect to encounter heavy traffic, especially on I-495 N. However, if you are flexible with your schedule, you can avoid this congestion by traveling during off-peak hours. The best time to travel is between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, or after 8:00 PM, when the roads are less crowded.

Drive Times:

During peak traffic hours, the drive from Arlington to Bethesda can take up to 45-50 minutes, depending on the route you take. However, during off-peak hours, you can expect to arrive in Bethesda in as little as 25-30 minutes. Keep in mind that these driving times are estimates and can vary based on weather conditions, road work, and accidents. It’s always best to check traffic updates before hitting the road to ensure the smoothest journey possible.

In conclusion, traveling from Arlington, Virginia to Bethesda, Maryland is only a short drive away. The quickest route is via I-495 N, but you may experience some traffic during peak hours. The longer route via GW Memorial Parkway and I-495 W can save you some time during peak hour traffic. Always make sure to check traffic updates before you leave to find the quickest and safest route. Happy travels!