The Road to Columbus: Navigating the Drive from Bedford, Ohio

When it comes to taking a road trip, there are few destinations more appealing than the bustling capital city of Ohio: Columbus. Whether you're catching a game at Ohio Stadium or exploring the wonders of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. For those of you traveling from Bedford, Ohio, however, the question remains: how long will it take to get there?

Let’s explore the driving options to Columbus and the amount of time each route would take based on traffic flow.

The Fastest Route: I-71 South

The fastest, most direct route from Bedford to Columbus is taking the I-71 South. This well-maintained highway takes you through rolling farmland and beautiful natural sightings, and the total distance is around 135 miles.

Under normal traffic conditions, the drive would take around two hours, so it’s best to time your trip to avoid rush hour. If you decide to embark on your journey during peak traffic, the trip can take up to two and a half hours. Therefore, if you have a specific event or meeting in Columbus, be sure to check the traffic patterns ahead of time to ensure you arrive on time.

The Slowest Route: OH-14 E and OH-44 S

If you're in no rush to arrive at your destination, the most scenic route would be taking OH-14 East and OH-44 South. This drive offers beautiful views of the countryside, small towns, and rolling hills of the region, making it a fantastic option for travelers who love exploring scenic roadways.

However, this trip is not the most efficient and could take almost three and a half hours to arrive in Columbus. This is mainly due to the winding roads that accompany the scenic views. Remember to budget for extra driving time if you choose this route, as it will significantly prolong your time on the road.

In Between: OH-8 S and I-71 S

Somewhere in between the fastest and most scenic route falls Lake County’s journey- OH-8 South and I-71 South. With a total distance of around 151 miles, this drive offers a nice balance between the two extreme routes.

If you take this route on low traffic conditions, the driving time is just over two hours. However, if you're making this trip during the busy periods, plan for the trip to take closer to 2.5 hours.

Final Thoughts

There are a few different routes you can take from Bedford, Ohio, to Columbus, Ohio, depending on your priorities. If you're looking for the fastest way to reach your destination, take I-71 South. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a scenic journey, take OH-14 East and OH-44 South. If you want a balance between both worlds, OH-8 South and I-71 South will do the trick.

Keep in mind that traffic patterns can significantly affect your driving times, so it's best to plan your trip around avoiding peak traffic periods. All in all, regardless of the route you choose, the journey to Columbus is well worth it!