Planning a Road Trip? Here’s the Cost of Driving From Arlington, Virginia to Mount Rainier, Maryland!

Are you planning a road trip from Arlington, Virginia to Mount Rainier, Maryland? With so much to see and do in both of these cities, it’s definitely worth the drive! To help you make the most of your trip, we've got all the information you need on the cost of driving, including gas prices, tolls, distance, and time for each route. Whether you’re looking for the quickest route or the most budget-friendly option, we have you covered.

Route 1: Taking the I-395 South and the I-295 South

This is the most direct route, with only about 14 miles distance between the two locations. To take this route, start out on I-395 S and then merge onto I-295 S. The entire journey takes approximately 25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Distance: 14.4 miles

Time: 25 minutes

Cost: $2 (toll fee) + $2.6 (gas cost*), total $4.6

Route 2: Taking the Kenilworth Ave

This route is slightly longer, but it can be a good option if you want to avoid highway tolls. Simply take Arlington Blvd or Lee Hwy to I-395 North, then take exit 8B for VA-27 E/VA-244 E/King St. Merge onto VA-27 E/VA-244 E/King St, then continue onto Russell Rd. Follow River Dr, S Washington St, and Route 1, then turn right onto Kenilworth Ave. Continue along this route until you arrive at Mount Rainier.

Distance: 17.9 miles

Time: 35 minutes

Cost: $0 (no tolls) + $4.9 (gas cost), total $4.9

Route 3: Taking the George Washington Memorial Parkway

This is the most scenic route, taking you along the Potomac River and through several national parks and forests. To take this route, simply head north on George Washington Memorial Pkwy until you reach Maryland.

Distance: 29.4 miles

Time: 40 minutes

Cost: $0 (no tolls) + $6.7 (gas cost), total $6.7

Route 4: Taking the I-495 East and I-295 South

This route has a balance between being a direct route and avoiding tolls. From Arlington, take I-495 E towards National Harbor. Continue until you merge onto I-295 S, then continue to Mount Rainier.

Distance: 20 miles

Time: 30 minutes

Cost: $2 (toll fee) + $3.8 (gas cost), total $5.8

Overall, the cost of driving from Arlington, Virginia to Mount Rainier, Maryland varies depending on the route you take, but it doesn't have to break the bank. With a bit of planning, you can find a route that suits your travel needs, whilst keeping costs relatively low.

*based on an average gas price of $2.25 per gallon.