The Time It Takes To Drive From Bardstown, Kentucky To Fort Walton Beach, Florida

Are you planning a road trip from Bardstown, Kentucky to Fort Walton Beach, Florida? If so, it's important to know the different routes available, the distance, and how much time it will take. The reality is that the time it takes to complete this drive depends on the route you take and the traffic pattern of the day. To help you plan your trip, I've put together a guide that includes the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of that route, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.

Route Options

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Bardstown to Fort Walton Beach is primarily on I-65 South and I-10 West. This route is the quickest way to get to Fort Walton Beach, covering just over 600 miles. It will take approximately 10 hours of driving time with minimal stops. The best part about taking this route is that it avoids major cities, like Atlanta, that are often congested with traffic.

The Slowest Route

If you're not in a hurry to get to Fort Walton Beach and would like to take a more scenic route, the slowest route would be to take I-64 East and head south from Louisville. This route takes you through the heart of Appalachia and offers stunning views of the rolling hills of Virginia. However, it's important to note that this route is roughly 800 miles and takes well over 14 hours of driving time.

Traffic Time

Of course, the time it takes to get to Fort Walton Beach also depends on traffic patterns. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of time during peak traffic times versus low traffic times.

Peak Traffic Times

If you're leaving on a weekend, expect an increase in traffic and travel time. Particularly in the summer months when vacationers flock to the beach, you can expect some congestion on I-65 South in Tennessee and Georgia. As a result, the drive time from Bardstown to Fort Walton Beach can increase by an hour or two, bringing the total driving time to 11-12 hours.

Low Traffic Times

If you're leaving in the early morning or late at night, you're likely to avoid peak traffic and arrive at your destination sooner. During weekdays, expect a smooth and uneventful drive with very little traffic. At this time, you can make the entire journey in 10 hours or less.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the time it takes to drive from Bardstown, Kentucky to Fort Walton Beach, Florida depends on the route you take and traffic patterns throughout the day. The fastest route is through I-65 South and I-10 West, covering just over 600 miles and taking roughly 10 hours of driving time. On the other hand, the slowest route takes you through Appalachia and takes roughly 14 hours or more. Traffic patterns also play a considerable role in the time it takes to travel. During peak travel times, it can take an additional hour or two to reach your destination, while early morning or late-night driving can expedite your journey.