Road Trip: Travel Time between Blackstone, VA and Laurel, MD

Thinking of hitting the road for a fun-filled road trip from Blackstone to Laurel? With several routes to choose from, let's explore the best ways to cover this 196-mile stretch without burning a hole in your pocket.

Route 1: The Classic Drive

Route 1 takes you through the beautiful Virginia countryside, and with moderate traffic, you can complete this 3-hour drive in relatively less time. You can start from Blackstone and drive north on Route 46 until you reach Petersburg, and then hop on Route 95 North. Follow the route for approximately 110 miles, and you will arrive in Laurel.

Route 2: The Eastern Shore Drive

For those who love coastal vistas, Route 2 offers plenty of scenic beauty. Go north on Route 460 from Blackstone until you reach Norfolk. Take Route 13 on the eastern shore and drive through the beautiful Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. The 226-mile drive may take you 4 hours but is worth the extra time.

Route 3: The Mountain Drive

For a unique experience, Route 3 takes you through the mountains, forests, and valleys of central Virginia. Start on Route 460 towards Lynchburg, then follow Route 501 for 150 miles until you reach Laurel- one of the best ways to explore the state's beauty. However, this route takes around 5 hours with many twists and turns.

Route 4: The Scenic Drive

The longest route of all, route 4 covers approximately 240 miles and takes 4.5 hours to cover, depending on traffic. The drive takes you through national parks, waterfalls, and scenic byways. Start on Route 460 East, take Route 29 North towards Charlottesville, stop by Shenandoah National Park on the way, and end the trip by taking I-495 eastbound towards Laurel.

Route 5: The Fast Drive

If you are in a hurry and driving is the only way, Route 5 promises to be speedy and efficient. 95 North is the quickest way to get to Laurel from Blackstone. It's a straight-line distance, but the traffic may slow you down, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours to complete.

Places to Stop Along the Way

Regardless of the route you take, there are many beautiful places to visit on the way. Plan a stop at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia Natural History Museum, or Historic Jamestowne on Route 1. Visit Tangier Island and Pocomoke State Forest on Route 2. Bedford and Shenandoah National Park are perfect for a scenic drive on Route 3. You can explore Thomas Jefferson's Monticello and Shenandoah Caverns on Route 4.

In conclusion, regardless of the route you choose, plan your trip well and have a great time. Keep in mind the weather, your car, and the time you have so that you can make the most of your travel experience. Happy road trip!