The Cost of a Trip Between Bethesda, Maryland and Annapolis, Maryland

If you are planning a trip between Bethesda, Maryland and Annapolis, Maryland, one of the first things you may consider is the cost. With gas prices fluctuating regularly, it is important to determine the cost of travel to avoid any unwanted surprises. In this article, we explore the cost of different travel routes and recommend the most cost-effective option.

Route Options

When you travel from Bethesda to Annapolis, you have three main routes to choose from:

Route 1: I-495/ I-97 Route

This route involves taking I-495 East to I-97 South until you reach Annapolis. The distance of this route is approximately 35 miles. This route is the fastest option, allowing you to arrive in Annapolis in as little as 40 minutes. However, the downside of this route is that it tends to be the most expensive, as tolls are required.

Route 2: Route 450/Route 50 Route

The second option is taking Route 450 East to Route 50 East until you reach Annapolis. The distance of this route is approximately 28 miles. This option is less expensive than Route 1 as you avoid paying any tolls. However, it's worth mentioning that this route can take longer due to potential traffic and construction.

Route 3: The Annapolis Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail

The third option is to take The Annapolis Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail, which is approximately 26 miles. This route is the most environmentally friendly option of the three, as you can use a bike or walk instead of driving. However, this route will take significantly longer, making it not ideal for individuals who want to arrive in Annapolis quickly.

Traveling Costs

When calculating your travel costs, it is essential to consider the gas prices and any associated fees. On average, gas prices in Bethesda, Maryland, are around $2.50 per gallon of regular gasoline. This price may vary depending on the specific gas station you choose.

Route 1: I-495/ I-97 Route Cost

If you choose Route 1, the gas cost for a four-wheel vehicle traveling 35 miles one-way would be approximately $4.85. However, you must also consider toll fees. The cost of tolls is $4.30 during peak hours, which applies to drivers traveling southbound from I-97 to U.S. 50/301.

Therefore, if you take this route during peak hours, the total cost would be approximately $9.15. If you drive during off-peak hours, the cost of tolls is $2.20. Thus, the total cost would be about $7.05.

Route 2: Route 450/Route 50 Route Cost

If you take Route 2, the gas cost for a four-wheel vehicle traveling 28 miles one-way would be about $3.68. Since there are no tolls on this route, your only expense is gas.

Route 3: The Annapolis Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail

If you choose Route 3 by using a bike or walking, there are no gas costs to consider. You will need to bring water, food, and maybe a camera or phone for photos.

The Best Route

After examining all three routes, the most beneficial option depends on your priorities. If time is your main concern, Route 1 is the best choice, as it is the fastest option but also the most expensive. If, on the other hand, you prefer to save money, then Route 2, which is gas cost-effective, is the way to go. Folks who enjoy biking or walking and want to have fun with the scenery should try Route 3.

However, it is essential to keep in mind that Route 2 could take a longer time due to potential traffic, whereas Route 1 is a straight shot with tolls. That being said, our recommendation is Route 2, as it does not have any tolls and the gas cost is low.

Conclusion

Taking Route 2 will cost you approximately $3.68 in gas costs one-way, making it the most cost-effective route among the three. While traffic can cause delays, it is worth it if you are looking to save money. The route is scenic and straightforward, making it easy to follow while enjoying the landscapes. All in all, the trip should only take around 50 minutes, making it a great option for a day trip or weekend getaway.