Buckle Up for a Joy Ride: The Time it Takes to Drive from Auburn Hills, Michigan to Grand Rapids

If you're planning a road trip from Auburn Hills, Michigan to Grand Rapids, Michigan, it's important to know how long it will take you to reach your destination. Depending on the route that you take, the time it takes to cover the distance of approximately 150 miles can vary.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Auburn Hills to Grand Rapids takes you through I-96 W and I-196 W, which will get you there in about 2 hours on an average day with light traffic. However, during peak traffic times it can take up to 3 hours to cover the distance as traffic slows down and there are more opportunities for congestion. Alternately, the slowest route takes you through M-21 W, which is a more scenic route through Michigan’s rustic countryside. This route can take up to 3.5 hours on the lengthiest days of heavy traffic.

Distance and Driving Time

The fastest route via I-96 W and I-196 W covers a distance of approximately 150.9 miles, which you can comfortably cover in 2 hours and 5 minutes on most days. However, during rush hour, traffic can accumulate and this drive may take up to 3 hours. By contrast, the longer route through M-21 W spans a distance of about 158.35 miles, and can take 3 and a half hours or more — particularly in situations with heavy traffic congestion.

The Best Time to Travel

While everyone typically wants to get to their destination as soon as possible, taking the time to study the timing of traffic can help you save more time down the road. If you’re looking to drive during the less congested periods, avoiding between 7:30 to 9:00 AM and 4:00 to 6:00 PM would be your best bet. Generally speaking, if you’re looking to reach Grand Rapids as soon as possible, driving on weekends typically is more feasible than the weekdays

Your choice of a driving route from Auburn Hills to Grand Rapids can make all the difference in terms of how long it takes you to make it to your destination. Taking into account traffic patterns and the distance of the route, the driving time can vary greatly. When selecting a route, it’s important to remember that while the experience is important, the most important priority is arriving safely.