Road Trip: From Bixby, Oklahoma to Rochester, Minnesota

If you're up for an adventure and looking to hit the road, why not plan a road trip from Bixby, Oklahoma, to Rochester, Minnesota? The drive is filled with beautiful sights, and you can make a few pit stops along the way to explore some charming towns. Before you go, let's take a look at the different routes you can take and estimate the driving times based on traffic patterns!

Fast and Furious: The Quickest Routes

Route 1: I-35 N and I-80 E

Distance: Approximately 935 miles

For those looking to reach Rochester as quickly as possible, this route is your best bet. Hop on I-35 N from Bixby, and continue on I-80 E until you reach Rochester. This route takes you through major cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids. With a total driving time of around 14-16 hours, depending on traffic, you'll be in Rochester before you know it.

Route 2: US-62 E and I-44 E

Distance: Approximately 995 miles

If you prefer a slightly different route that offers a change of scenery, you can take US-62 E from Bixby and later merge onto I-44 E. Driving through Tulsa, Joplin, and Springfield, this route is an excellent choice. While it adds a bit more mileage, the journey remains similar to Route 1 in terms of total driving time.

Slow and Steady: Embrace the Scenic Route

Route 3: US-69 N and US-75 N

Distance: Approximately 1,100 miles

If you have the luxury of time and want to explore small towns and beautiful landscapes along the way, taking US-69 N and US-75 N is the perfect option. Although this route is longer, clocking in at around 17-19 hours of driving time, it allows you to experience the charming communities of Kansas and southern Nebraska.

Traffic Patterns: Calculating Driving Times

Peak Traffic Times

During peak traffic times, such as rush hour or on major holidays, it's essential to consider the added delays. Based on historical patterns, you can expect a potential increase of up to 30% in driving time. So for Route 1, it would be wise to estimate around 18-20 hours of driving time. Similarly, Route 2 and Route 3 may take a bit longer, likely around 19-21 hours.

Low Traffic Times

If you're fortunate enough to hit the road during non-peak hours, your journey will be swifter. During these times, you can expect to trim off roughly 10-15% from the estimated driving times mentioned above. So, for Route 1, you may reach Rochester in approximately 12-14 hours, while Routes 2 and 3 may take around 13-15 hours.

No matter which route you choose or the time you hit the road, rest assured that your road trip from Bixby, Oklahoma, to Rochester, Minnesota will be one to remember. So buckle up, cue up your favorite playlist, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the heartland of America!