From Belmar to Princeton, NJ: Which Route Is Faster?

Are you planning to drive from Belmar to Princeton, NJ, and wondering which route will be the fastest? The good news is that you have a couple of options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this post, we'll break down the two main routes and tell you how long they'll take, so you can plan your trip accordingly.

Route 1: The Garden State Parkway and US-1

The first and most direct route is to take the Garden State Parkway south to exit 131, then connect to US-1 south. This will take you directly to Princeton, and the total distance is around 40 miles. In ideal traffic conditions, this route should take you around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your speed.

However, be warned: this route can be extremely slow during peak traffic times, especially on weekdays. Rush hour traffic can add 30+ minutes to your travel time, so if you're leaving around 7-9 am or 4-6 pm, be prepared to sit in traffic.

Route 2: NJ-18 and US-1

Another option is to take NJ-18 south to Route 1. This route is slightly longer than the Garden State Parkway route (around 45 miles), but it may be faster during peak traffic due to less congestion. Depending on traffic, this route can take you anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this route can also be congested during rush hour, especially on the NJ-18 portion. Be sure to check traffic before you depart, and consider this option if it looks like the Garden State Parkway is moving slowly.

Other Factors to Consider

Aside from traffic, there are a few other things to think about when planning your trip. For example, tolls: if you take the Garden State Parkway, you'll need to pay a toll (currently $1.50) when you exit. On the other hand, Route 18 and Route 1 both have toll-free options.

Another thing to keep in mind is road quality: some sections of the Garden State Parkway and NJ-18 can be bumpy or uneven, so if you have a car with a sensitive suspension, you may prefer the smoother US-1 route.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice of which route to take from Belmar to Princeton depends on your priorities. If you're leaving outside of rush hour and want the most direct route, the Garden State Parkway and US-1 may be for you. On the other hand, if you want to avoid traffic as much as possible, NJ-18 and Route 1 might be a better option.

No matter which route you choose, be sure to check traffic conditions before you leave, and pack some snacks and drinks to keep you happy on the road. Good luck, and safe travels!