#The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Bellevue to New York: Fastest and Slowest Routes
Are you planning a long drive from Bellevue, Washington, to New York City? Whether you are planning a vacation or moving across the country, driving can be a great option if you have enough time and enjoy exploring new places.
However, before you hit the road, it is essential to plan your route wisely. Traffic patterns and conditions can significantly impact how long it will take to reach your destination.
In this guide, we will help you plan your drive from Bellevue to New York City, including the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of those routes, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns.
The Fastest Route: I-90 E and I-80 E
The easiest and fastest route that takes you from Bellevue to New York City is via I-90 E and I-80 E, covering approximately 2,875 miles. This route takes you through the states of Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and finally, New York.
Assuming you drive at a consistent speed, this route would take approximately 41 hours of driving time to complete. However, this is just an estimate as traffic patterns and road conditions can significantly impact your travel time.
If you plan to drive this route, we recommend you drive during daylight hours as this will help you avoid obstacles such as animals, fatigue and make it easier to navigate unfamiliar routes.
The Slowest Route: US-50 E and I-70 E
If you have time to spare or love to take the scenic route, you may opt for a slower option, which is US-50 E and I-70 E. This option is 500 miles longer, increasing the driving time to approximately 46 hours.
US-50 E and I-70 E will take you through some beautiful views in the mid-western states of Utah, Colorado, Kansas, and Missouri before finally reaching Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York.
Rush Hour Driving
When driving across the country, it is essential to plan your route wisely to avoid wasting time in traffic. Peak rush hour traffic in larger cities such as Chicago, Columbus, and New York can extend your travel time significantly.
Allow extra driving time, and if possible, try to schedule your drive through these areas during off-peak hours to minimize the impact of traffic on your trip.
If you are driving during peak rush hours, we recommend allowing an extra five to six hours of driving time for the entire trip.
The Best Time to Drive from Bellevue to New York
The best time to drive from Bellevue to New York is during spring or fall. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and you can comfortably drive without worrying about extreme heat or cold.
On the other hand, the summer months can be too hot, making it uncomfortable to drive for an extended period. Similarly, the winter may have adverse weather conditions in many parts of the route, making it more hazardous and slow.
Conclusion
Driving from Bellevue, Washington, to New York City can be a fantastic experience with the proper planning. Remember to choose your route wisely, allow enough time for peak traffic, and consider the best season to drive to make your journey safe and enjoyable.
Whether you opt for the fastest or scenic route, stay safe on the road, and make the most of your long drive adventure.