Road Tripping from Bel Air to North Bethesda
Are you planning a weekend getaway? A family vacation? Or just a day trip? If you're in the Baltimore area, consider heading north to North Bethesda, a bustling city that's home to amazing dining and shopping options, world-class museums, and plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces. But before you get there, you'll need to figure out the best way to travel the distance between Baltimore and North Bethesda.
The Distance and Driving Time
Bel Air and North Bethesda are approximately 50 miles apart, depending on which route you take. Driving on I-95 S and I-495 W, the total distance is around 57 miles and would take about an hour to complete without traffic. With the usual rush hour congestion, it could take up to two hours or more.
The Best Routes from Bel Air to North Bethesda
While you may think that I-95 S and I-495 W is the only way to go, there are other options available when traveling to North Bethesda from Bel Air. Here are some of them:
Route 1: Via I-95 S and I-495 W
This is the fastest and most direct route from Bel Air to North Bethesda. Take I-95 S to I-495 W, then take Exit 34 toward MD-355 N. Follow signs towards North Bethesda.
- Distance: 57 miles
- Time: About 1 hour without traffic
Route 2: Via MD-45 and MD-140
If you want a more laid-back driving experience, take MD-45 and MD-140. This route passes through different towns where you can stop and enjoy the local restaurants, parks, and stores.
- Distance: 54.7 miles
- Time: Around 1 hour and 25 minutes without traffic
Route 3: Via US-1 and I-895
US-1 and I-895 is another option to travel from Bel Air to North Bethesda. This is a less common route but may offer a different view of Maryland's scenic countryside.
- Distance: 58.1 miles
- Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes without traffic, but may take an extra 10-15 minutes for construction and traffic updates.
Places to Stop on Your Way to North Bethesda
If you're taking Route 2, a few quaint towns are along the way. You can check out the cool stops in Havre de Grace like the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum, or the Susquehanna Museum at the Lock House. Other good options for a quick break are Monkton, Hereford or Freeland, which has a few local eateries.
No matter which route you take, there are plenty of options to stop along the way to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy the beautiful Maryland scenery.
Final Thoughts
When planning a trip to North Bethesda from Bel Air, it's up to you which route to take. The fastest option may be the most direct, but a more relaxed route with a few stops for food and nature could also be a nice change of pace. Whatever you choose, make sure you have a good playlist and enjoy the drive. Maryland is known for its scenic beauty, so take the opportunity to appreciate all it has to offer.