On the Road to Tampa: How Long Will Your Drive Take?

Looking to escape the chilly climes of (Old) Ottawa, Ontario for sunnier shores? Tampa, Florida beckons with its warm weather, pristine beaches, and excellent attractions. Yet before you set off for the Sunshine state, you may understandably have some questions about the journey itself. Namely, how long will it take to drive there?

Well, the answer depends on a few factors such as your preferred route, distance, and the time of day you hit the road. In this post, we'll break down the fastest and slowest routes, their corresponding distances, and estimated drive times.

Fastest Routes

If you're short on time and prefer to arrive in Tampa as soon as possible, there are a couple of routes to consider.

Route 1: Via I-95 South

This route, which takes you through the eastern seaboard of the U.S, is one of the fastest from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Tampa, Florida. The total driving distance is approximately 2,662 km and would take approximately 25 hours of driving time, although it could be slightly longer if you take a few pit stops along the way.

Route 2: Via I-75 South

Another popular route is via I-75 South, which takes you through some of the heartlands of the U.S before arriving in Tampa. The total driving distance is approximately 2,965 km and would take approximately 27 hours of driving time, including rest stops.

Slowest Route

If you have some time to spare and want to explore more of the U.S, then a slower route may be more to your liking.

Route 3: via I-81 South

This route takes you through the Appalachian Mountains before ultimately hitting the coast via I-95. It's the most scenic route of the bunch but takes the longest to complete. The total driving distance is approximately 3,321 km and would take approximately 30 hours of driving time, stopping included.

Best Time to Drive

Of course, it's not just about the route you take, but when you hit the road. If you want to avoid heavy traffic and reach Tampa in the shortest time possible, the optimal time to drive is during off-peak hours and weekdays.

During peak traffic times, such as rush hour and holidays, the drive time can easily be extended by an hour or more. Depending on your route, you could also face various tolls. Be sure to factor in these potential delays and fees when planning your travel itinerary.

In conclusion, there are multiple ways to drive from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Tampa, Florida – each with its own pros and cons. Whether you prefer the fastest or scenic route, driving times can vary greatly depending on traffic and time of day. Now that you have an idea of how long it will take to reach Tampa, pack your bags, fuel up, and head out – the sun and surf of Florida awaits!