Road Trip! Arlington, Virginia to Columbia, Missouri

Are you ready for a road trip from Arlington, Virginia to Columbia, Missouri? Whether you're visiting family or just looking for a change of scenery, there are a few things you should know before hitting the road. In this post, we'll cover the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Arlington, Virginia to Columbia, Missouri is via I-95 S and I-64 W. This route is approximately 855 miles and takes about 12 and a half hours without traffic. However, traffic can add several hours, so it's important to plan accordingly. During peak traffic times, you can expect the drive to take closer to 15 hours.

The More Scenic Route

If you have some extra time and want to take a more scenic route, consider taking the Blue Ridge Pkwy and the Appalachian Mountains. This route adds some extra distance, putting the total miles at approximately 1,170, but you'll enjoy breathtaking views along the way. Keep in mind that this route does add several hours to the drive, taking around 18 hours without traffic.

The Slowest Route

The slowest, but most affordable, route is via US-50 W and US-54 W. This route is approximately 967 miles and takes about 16 and a half hours without traffic. During peak traffic times, you can expect the drive to take closer to 19 hours. However, this route is also the most affordable in terms of tolls and gas.

No matter which route you choose, keep in mind that traffic patterns can greatly affect the drive time. It's important to check the traffic reports before hitting the road and plan accordingly. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, you'll be sure to have a great time on your road trip from Arlington to Columbia.