Road Trip! What You Need To Know About Driving From Atlanta to Saint Paul

Are you getting ready for a cross-country road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Saint Paul, Minnesota? Exciting! Before you hit the road, let's take a look at the different routes available, how far they are, and how long they'll take you to get there.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Atlanta to Saint Paul takes you straight through Chicago. It's a total distance of about 926 miles, and Google Maps estimates it will take approximately 14 hours and 15 minutes to complete. Note that this is without traffic.

The slowest route, on the other hand, takes you through Louisville, Indianapolis, and Milwaukee before finally arriving in Saint Paul. This route will cover approximately 1,039 miles and take around 16 hours and 15 minutes to complete.

Of course, the speed of your drive will depend on many factors: weather, road conditions, traffic, and how many stops you make.

Traffic Patterns and Drive Times

Speaking of traffic, this is a critical factor to consider when planning a road trip. Rush hour in larger cities or even just one construction zone can add hours to your total driving time.

Taking the fast route via Chicago, during non-peak hours, you should arrive in Saint Paul after approximately 14 hours and 15 minutes of driving. However, during rush hour traffic in Chicago, you could add an extra two to three hours to your total drive time. That's why it's essential to plan around heavily trafficked areas and adjust your schedule accordingly.

Now, let's say you decide to take the slower route through Louisville, Indianapolis, and Milwaukee. During low traffic periods, such as overnight or on weekends, you could cover the distance in around 15 hours of driving. However, during peak hours or around major events, driving the slower route may take you upwards of 18 hours.

What to Expect

Before setting off on your Atlanta to Saint Paul adventure, prepare for the trip by packing plenty of snacks, drinks, and fill up on gas. You should also have a good idea of the routes you'll be taking, the expected driving time for each, and a contingency plan if delays arise.

If you're looking to reach Saint Paul as quickly as possible, the route via Chicago is likely your best bet. However, if you want to take your time and see the sights, the slower route may be worth the extra time on the road.

No matter which option you choose, driving from Atlanta to Saint Paul is sure to be a memorable experience, filled with beautiful scenery, interesting stops, and plenty of new experiences. Enjoy the ride!