Driving Time between Bowie, Maryland and Ocean View, Delaware

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Road Tripping from Bowie, Maryland to Ocean View, Delaware: Which Route will Get You There Fastest?

Whether you're heading to the beach for some fun in the sun or visiting friends and family, traveling from Bowie, Maryland to Ocean View, Delaware can be an easy and enjoyable drive. And while the journey is just over 100 miles, the route you choose can make a significant difference in how long it takes you to arrive at your destination.

Here's a breakdown of the different routes you can take and the estimated travel times along the way.

Route 1: The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Bowie to Ocean View is by taking US-50 E towards Annapolis, then crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and continuing onto MD-300 E towards Chestertown. From there, take MD-302 E and DE-1 S to reach Ocean View.

This particular route spans a total distance of about 112 miles and will take you approximately 2 hours, give or take a few minutes, depending on traffic levels.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

For those who want to break up the journey into smaller parts, a good option is to travel via Route 213 S and Route 9 E. This route will take you through charming towns like Centreville and Rock Hall as you make your way towards the Delaware Bay.

However, the scenery comes at a cost: the total distance of this route is approximately 133 miles, making it about a 3-hour journey.

Route 3: The Off-the-Beaten-Path Route

If you're up for an adventure, you can take a route along backroads and through small towns to reach your destination. From Bowie, take MD-450 E to Annapolis and then follow the Bay Bridge & Kent Island Scenic Byway. This will guide you through the quaint towns of Stevensville and Grasonville.

From there, take Route 50 W and US-13 S to Ocean View. While this trip is approximately the same distance as Route 1 (112 miles), it will take you about 3 hours to complete. It's a worthy option for those who enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.

Route 4: The Coastal Route

Lastly, you can always take the scenic coastal route via Route 50 E and US-113 S. This route winds down the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay and offers great views of the area's quaint fishing villages, historic sites, and scenic landscapes.

The total distance of this journey is about 115 miles, and on a clear day, it can take you roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Ocean View.

Recommendations for Places to Visit Along the Way

Regardless of which route you choose, there are plenty of great places to stop and enjoy along the way. For instance, you can visit:

  • The Chesapeake Bay Beach Club: This premier waterfront event venue in Stevensville, Maryland, has stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and excellent dining options.

  • The Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge: Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy stopping by this 2,285-acre wildlife refuge located in Rock Hall, Maryland.

  • The Salisbury Zoo: Located near Route 50 and US-13, the Salisbury Zoo is a fun place to stop with the kids and explore the different animal exhibits.

Whether you're taking the fastest route, the scenic route, or any other variation, make the most out of your journey and plan to stop and enjoy the attractions along the way.