Navigating Virginia: How Long Does It Take To Drive From Arlington to Manassas?

If you're planning a trip to Manassas, VA from Arlington, you're probably wondering how long it will take you to get there. Fortunately, there are several routes you can take, and the time it takes to get to Manassas can vary depending on which one you choose.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

One of the fastest routes to take from Arlington to Manassas is via I-66 W. This route is approximately 23 miles, and in light traffic, it can take you about 25-30 minutes to drive. However, during rush hour (especially in the morning), the travel time can easily double to an hour.

On the other hand, if you don't mind spending a little more time on the road, you can take the scenic route- US-50 W/Lee Hwy. This route passes through several small towns, and you could enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way. At a distance of approximately 25 miles, it will take you 30-35 minutes to drive in light traffic, but the time may rise to 50-60 minutes during rush hour.

Traffic and Drive Times

Aside from the time of day, traffic patterns may drastically affect your travel time to Manassas. Rush hour ranges from 7 am to 9 am in the morning and 4 pm to 6:30 pm in the evening. If you're aiming for the shortest possible drive time, a good strategy is to leave early in the morning before 7 am. Alternatively, you can opt to leave later during off-peak hours in the morning or early afternoon when traffic is lighter.

Using I-66 W during peak hours, it could take you an hour or more to get to Manassas. However, taking the US-50 W during rush hour might not be much better either. The best approach is to use real-time traffic apps to monitor traffic on the routes in real-time, allowing you to choose the fastest route, given the current traffic patterns.

Final Thoughts

So how long does it take to drive from Arlington to Manassas? That depends on several factors, including the route you choose and the time of day you're traveling. I-66 W is one of the fastest routes if you're in a hurry, while US-50 W could offer a more scenic option for leisurely travelers.

Whatever the case, always factor in the time of day and traffic patterns to avoid any surprises and unnecessary delays in getting to your destination. Safe travels!