Driving Time between Bowie, Maryland and Summerville, South Carolina

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Bowie, Maryland to Summerville, South Carolina: Travel Time and Route Options

Are you planning a road trip from Bowie, Maryland to Summerville, South Carolina? This adventure will take you through beautiful landscapes and scenic routes. But before you hit the road, take note of the various routes available and the time it takes to drive through each one.

Route 1: I-95 South

This is the most direct and fastest route from Bowie, Maryland to Summerville, South Carolina. It covers a total distance of approximately 550 miles, and driving the entire way will take you around 9 hours. There are several rest areas along the highway where you can stretch your legs or have a picnic. As you pass through Virginia, make sure to check out the beautiful Shenandoah National Park. And when you reach South Carolina, stop by the charming city of Charleston for some delicious southern food and some sightseeing.

Route 2: US-301 and I-95 South

If you prefer to travel along a more scenic route and avoid some of the traffic, you can take US-301 and merge onto I-95 South later. This route covers around 630 miles, and driving the whole way can take up to 10 hours. However, the extra time spent on the road is worth it for the scenic drives and the small towns you’ll pass through. You can make stops at Fredericksburg, VA to visit historic sites, Manning, SC to see Lake Marion, or Orangeburg, SC for some southern-style BBQ.

Route 3: Coastal Route via US-13 and US-17

For those who want to enjoy the coastal drive, this route is perfect. You’ll start on US-13 South and then merge onto US-17 South, which will take you all the way to Summerville, South Carolina. This route covers around 650 miles and can take up to 12 hours to drive. But the coastal views along the way are magnificent, and you can make stops at Ocean City, MD, Virginia Beach, VA, Wilmington, NC, and Myrtle Beach, SC along the way.

Route 4: Alternative Coast Route via Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

If you want to take a more unique route, you can try driving across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and then go down the coast via US-13 and US-17. This route covers around 710 miles, and it can take up to 12 hours to drive. However, driving across the bridge-tunnel offers a great view of the bay, and this route will take you past various coastal spots such as Virginia Beach, Wilmington, and Charleston.

Tips and Recommendations

Before starting your journey, it’s crucial to check traffic conditions and weather forecasts to avoid any delays. You should also plan your rest stops, fuel stops, and meal breaks.

There are several fantastic dining spots, scenic attractions, and hotels along the routes. Some of our recommendations include:

  • Ocean City, MD: A popular and famous coastal town known for its beaches, amusement parks, and seafood.
  • Shenandoah National Park: A beautiful park in Virginia where you can hike, camp, and view wildlife.
  • Raleigh, NC: Known for its museums, gardens, and performing arts centers, Raleigh makes for a great stopover location.
  • Palmetto Falls Water Park: A fun and exciting place to stop and cool off on a hot summer day.
  • Savannah, GA: A beautiful historic city known for its charming streets, delicious food, and several landmarks around the town.

In conclusion, no matter which route you choose, the drive from Bowie, Maryland to Summerville, South Carolina can be an unforgettable experience. We hope our guide can help with your decision and make your journey a memorable one. Drive safely!