Road Trip from ATL to Royal Oak: Drive Time & Route Options

Are you planning a road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Royal Oak, Michigan? Moving to a new city or visiting relatives anytime soon? Whatever the reason might be, before you embark on your journey, it’s essential to have an idea of how long the drive will take and what the best route options are. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through all the different routes, the distance, and how long you can expect each one to take.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The quickest route from Atlanta to Royal Oak is by taking I-75 North all the way. The distance is approximately 700 miles, and it takes around 11 hours of drive time. This shortest route is direct and straightforward without too many town or city distractions along the way. At off-peak traffic times, it even might take you even a few hours less to complete the journey.

On the other hand, if you prefer to discover new places and take the scenic route, you can choose the alternative options. One of the favorite routes is by taking I-69 and then switching onto I-94 East. This route will add an extra 2 hours or so to your drive, but it’s a beautiful drive across the midwest with various interesting stops such as Indianapolis or Ann Arbor.

Driving Time Based On Traffic

When you hit the road, it's critical to consider the traffic flow to estimate the time for your drive. If your journey begins during rush hour, expect to spend more time on the road, particularly in congested areas. At peak traffic times, jams and delays are frequent, and roads are more likely to run at slower speeds. Therefore, when planning your road trip, it’s advisable to calculate your drive time between 7-10 am and 3-6 pm to avoid major backups on the highway.

So what would be your estimated drive times according to your departure time? Typically, it will take anywhere from 12 to 14 hours at peak traffic times, while during off-peak hours, you can shave off a few hours and complete the trip from Atlanta to Royal Oak in approximately 10-12 hours, depending on the route you choose.

Conclusion

In summary, the total drive time from Atlanta, Georgia, to Royal Oak, Michigan, varies depending on the route and traffic flow. The most direct route via I-75 is the fastest, while the I-69 + I-94 option provides a scenic drive through the Midwest. Be sure to plan your trip well ahead to factor in possible traffic, weather, and other unexpected events. Nonetheless, no matter what route you take, it will undoubtedly be an enjoyable experience along the way!