Cruising from Charm City to the Beltway: Travel Time between Baltimore, Maryland and McLean, Virginia
Are you looking for a great road trip experience between Baltimore, Maryland, and McLean, Virginia? Well, we've got you covered! Whether you're planning to visit family in McLean, get a taste of its diverse culture, or just enjoy a spectacular drive, we've listed different routes with travel times to cater to your interests and needs.
I-95 South: The Fastest Route
The quickest and most direct path from Baltimore to McLean is heading down south on I-95, which takes slightly over an hour. This multi-lane freeway connects the most populated states on the East Coast, and it's the main travel artery serving major cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington DC. The distance from Baltimore to McLean via this route is approximately 55 miles.
BW Parkway: The Scenic Route
If you'd like to avoid the intense traffic on I-95, you can opt to cruise through the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (BW Parkway). This 29-mile parkway, managed by the National Park Service, connects Baltimore to Washington DC while meandering through verdant forests and tranquil waters. Although it tends to be slightly slower than I-95, this drive is ideal if you want a taste of nature and history coupled with a long list of road trip snacks. The traveling time via the BW Parkway is between 1 to 1 and a half hours.
Virginia's Back Roads: The Exploratory Route
For those looking for a more scenic and secluded route, taking the back roads through Virginia is an excellent choice. The path cuts through small Virginia towns like Lovettsville and Hamilton, offering a fantastic opportunity for sightseeing and picturesque photo stops along the way. Although this route takes a bit longer, the scenery, charming towns, and excellent eateries you'll discover along the way make it worth it. The traveling time on this route ranges from 2 to 2 and a half hours.
Recommendations
While driving from Baltimore to McLean, you can make several stops and detours to explore the many hidden gems along the way. Here are some recommendations that may pique your interest:
Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
If you take the I-95 route, it would be incomplete without making a stop at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC. It's one of the most visited museums worldwide and boasts an extensive collection of airplanes, rockets, and satellites, including the Spirit of St. Louis – Charles Lindbergh's plane.
Hike Along Billy Goat Trail E & A
For nature lovers driving on the BW Parkway, a hike along the Billy Goat Trail is a must-do. It's a strenuous trail that's ideal for experienced hikers, but the stunning views of rapids and the mighty Potomac River are worth the effort.
Savor the Best Brews from Vanish Farmwoods Brewery
For a little fun on the back roads to Virginia, make a pit stop at Vanish Farmwoods Brewery in Leesburg. This award-winning brewery offers a hoppy selection of beers, burgers, and live music.
In conclusion, there are a variety of routes to choose from when cruising from Baltimore, Maryland, to McLean, Virginia. Whether you prefer the scenic and back roads, fast and straight highways, or the in-between BW Parkway, the journey is beautiful, adventurous, and offers some excellent places to stop along the way. So, start planning and hit the road!