How Long Does It Take to Drive From Boston to Buffalo?

Are you planning a road trip from Boston to Buffalo? Do you wonder how long it will take you to make the drive, especially in peak traffic times? With a little planning, you can better estimate the time it will take to make the trip and choose a route that will get you there as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking for the fastest route between Boston and Buffalo, take I-90 West all the way. This will take you through Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, and finally Buffalo. The total distance is approximately 450 miles, and it will take about 7 hours to make the trip in good driving conditions.

However, keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in some areas, especially around major cities like Albany and Syracuse. If you're making the drive during peak hours, you can expect the trip to take longer. In heavy traffic, the drive can take up to 9 hours.

The Scenic Route

If you're not in a hurry and want to take a scenic route, consider taking Route 20 west from Boston all the way to Buffalo. This route will take you through charming small towns, beautiful countryside, and historic sites along the way. While the total distance is only slightly longer than the fastest route at about 490 miles, the drive will take longer, as you'll be on secondary roads with lower speed limits.

Plan on taking at least 10-12 hours to make the trip and enjoy the beauty of the area. Keep in mind, you may want to take breaks along the way to stretch your legs and take in the surroundings.

The Middle Ground

If you want a middle-ground route, consider taking I-90 west for part of the way and then cutting over to Route 20 to finish the drive. This will give you the best of both worlds — some fast highway driving, as well as some slower-paced scenic driving. The total distance is approximately 470 miles, and the drive should take around 9 hours.

During peak hours, expect the drive to take closer to 11 hours, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that the total driving time will also vary depending on how long you stop for breaks or other errands you might need to run along the way.

In Conclusion

When it comes to driving from Boston to Buffalo, there are plenty of options to choose from depending on your desired driving experience and how much time you have to make the drive. The fastest route can get you to your destination in about 7 hours, while slower routes that offer scenic views will take up to 12 hours.

Regardless of which route you choose, make sure to plan accordingly based on the traffic patterns for the time of day you'll be traveling. With a little planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable drive from Boston to Buffalo. Happy travels!